How your gastroenterologist in Arcadia, CA, can help you

Gastrointestinal problems can cause severe pain and disrupt your life. Fortunately, your gastroenterologist is an expert at diagnosing and treating GI conditions. Dr. Donald Portocarrero at Gastrointestinal & Non-Surgical Weight Loss Solutions in Arcadia, CA, offers a wide range of gastroenterology services, to keep you feeling your best.

When you have GI issues, you need to know the facts. These are 3 frequently asked questions and answers about gastroenterology:

What is a gastroenterologist and when should I visit one?

A gastroenterologist is a specialist medical doctor who is an expert at diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases of your digestive system. Your digestive system includes your upper and lower intestines, stomach, and colon.

You should visit your gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy at least by the time you reach the age of 45. A colonoscopy is an excellent diagnostic tool to diagnose colorectal cancer. You should also visit your gastroenterologist if you experience:

• Chronic nausea and vomiting
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Sudden, excessive weight loss
• Chronic abdominal pain or cramping
• Changes in the color or consistency of your stool

What medical conditions and diseases does a gastroenterologist diagnose and treat?

A gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats a wide variety of GI conditions and diseases, including:

• Ulcers
• Gastritis
• Diverticulitis
• Ulcerative colitis
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Celiac disease
• Stomach cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• GERD
• Barrett's esophagus
• Pancreatitis
• Jaundice
• Fatty liver
• Cirrhosis

What are some of the procedures performed by a gastroenterologist?

Your gastroenterologist uses cutting-edge imaging and testing tools to provide quick, accurate diagnoses. Some of the common procedures used by your gastroenterologist include:

• A colonoscopy, to examine your colon and lining of your rectum
• Upper endoscopy to evaluate the esophagus stomach and first part of the small intestine
• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to evaluate the bile duct and pancreas

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about gastroenterology. To find out more about gastroenterology services and how your gastroenterologist can help you feel your best, call Dr. Donald Portocarrero at Gastrointestinal & Non-Surgical Weight Loss Solutions in Arcadia, CA. You can reach him in the office by calling (626) 461-5408, so call now!