What Is a Gastroenterologist?

Gastroenterologist Specialist

Also called “GI doctors,” gastroenterologists treat problems and diseases of the digestive system and are experts in how the digestive system works. As experts, they can do more than just treat problems. They can also help both adults and children learn what they need to do to keep their system healthy.

Here is information that can help you understand what kind of training GI doctors get, what they do, why you might be referred to one, and what you can expect in terms of care.

What Does a Gastroenterologist Do?

If you’ve gone to a gastroenterologist, you know you were likely referred because something was wrong with the way your body handles food. Lots of different conditions can cause a problem. Those conditions include things such as:

Colon polyps, or small clusters of cells on the colon lining

Some cancers of the gut

Liver disease

Heartburn

Sores on the stomach lining and small intestine