Common Symptoms That Signal a Visit
- Persistent Abdominal Pain: Occasional stomach discomfort might be nothing to worry about, but persistent or severe pain should never be ignored. If you find yourself regularly reaching for antacids or pain relievers, it’s time to consult a specialist.
- Changes in Bowel Habits: Everyone’s routine is different, but drastic changes, such as persistent diarrhea, constipation, or changes in the color and consistency of your stool, can indicate problems like inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying might sound desirable to some, but it can be a warning sign of a serious digestive condition, including digestive tract cancers.
- Frequent Heartburn or GERD: While occasional acid reflux is common, frequent heartburn could be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition that, if untreated, can lead to complications including esophageal cancer.
- Anemia or Low Iron Levels: Unexplained iron deficiency can be a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract, possibly from conditions like gastritis or a peptic ulcer.