We’re San Diego’s Leading Gastroenterologists
Everyone has experienced a stomachache at some point. Most of the time, the ill feelings subside on their own. However, if the pain persists, you may need to see a gastroenterology specialist at OpSam Health. Our gastroenterologists in San Diego understand how impactful your digestive health can be on your overall well-being. It affects how your body absorbs energy and how you move throughout the day. We’re here to help you feel your best and avoid significant gastrointestinal problems. Learn how below.
What Is Gastroenterology?
Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine that specializes in the digestive system, including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which is the path food takes through your body. The GI tract starts at your mouth and esophagus, descends to the stomach, continues through the intestines, and ends at the rectum. However, a gastroenterology specialist examines more than just the tubes inside of you. We also study the organs that help with digestion, including the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts. All these parts work together to break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste. When one isn’t working correctly, it can throw off the whole balance. We’ll determine which organ needs attention and address the issue.
Recognizing Symptoms of Digestive Problems
Your body has ways of telling you when something is wrong. While an occasional stomachache is normal, there are specific signs of digestive issues that indicate you should see a doctor. Connect with our gastroenterologists in San Diego if any of the following symptoms last for more than a few days:
- Persistent Heartburn – A burning feeling in your chest that happens often, especially after eating
- Abdominal Pain – Sharp or dull pain in your stomach area that doesn’t go away
- Bloating and Gas – Feeling uncomfortably full or having excess gas regularly
- Changes in Bowel Habits – Diarrhea, constipation, or changes in the look of your stool
- Trouble Swallowing – Feeling like food is stuck in your throat or chest
- Unexplained Weight Loss – Losing weight without trying or changing your eating habits
How We Diagnose GI Conditions
Determining the cause of your symptoms is the first step toward feeling better. OpSam Health uses a variety of methods to accurately diagnose GI conditions. We’ll start by talking to you. Your medical history and physical examination provide us with important clues. From there, we might order lab tests. Blood tests and stool samples can help detect infections or inflammation in your body. But sometimes, we must look inside. Our team uses special procedures to do so safely:
Endoscopy
This involves using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look at your esophagus and stomach. It helps us see ulcers or inflammation.
Colonoscopy
This allows us to examine your large intestine. It’s a vital tool for finding polyps or signs of cancer.
Imaging Tests
X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs provide us with detailed images of your organs.
We Treat Various GI Issues
The digestive system is complex, meaning many different things can affect it. Our doctors are experts in treating a wide range of conditions. No matter what you’re facing, we likely have experience with it. Some of the most common issues we treat include:
- Acid Reflux (GERD) – This occurs when stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, causing irritation.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – This common disorder affects the large intestine, causing cramping and changes in bowel movements.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – IBD includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause chronic inflammation.
- Liver Disease – We treat conditions like hepatitis and fatty liver disease.
- Polyps and Cancer – We screen for and treat growths in the colon to prevent or manage cancer.
- Celiac Disease – This disease involves an immune reaction to eating gluten that damages the small intestine.
Our Gastrointestinal Treatment Options
Once we know the issue, OpSam Health’s gastroenterologists will develop a personalized plan to address it. Treatment looks different for everyone. For some people, simple lifestyle changes are enough. We might suggest adjusting your diet, drinking more water, or exercising more. Our team can also help you identify and avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.
Medication is another standard treatment. We can prescribe medicine to reduce stomach acid, lower inflammation, or aid in smooth digestion.
In some cases, a procedure or surgery may be necessary. If we find polyps during a colonoscopy, we can remove them immediately. For more complex issues, we’ll collaborate with surgeons to ensure you receive the best possible care. As a leading gastroenterology specialist in San Diego, we always aim for the most effective and least invasive treatments.
Visit Our Gastroenterologists in San Diego
If you’re struggling with stomach pain, heartburn, or any other GI issues, don’t wait to get help. OpSam Health provides expert gastroenterology care in San Diego and its surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
