What Can I Expect From A Pediatric Gastroenterologist?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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What does a pediatric gastroenterologist do? Pediatric gastroenterologists evaluate and offer treatment plans for any kind of chronic stomach issues including abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, failure to gain weight, feeding problems, constipation or dietary issues.

What does a pediatric gastroenterologist do on first visit?

It will include a complete history of your child’s illness, family history of illness and a physical exam . It may also include blood tests and simple X-rays. Usually, we do not do any gastrointestinal procedures or specialized X-rays during this first visit.

What will a pediatric gastroenterologist do?

What do we do? As specialists in digestive healthcare, our paediatric gastroenterologists diagnose and treat a broad range of gastrointestinal diseases in children . We can manage everything from a routine upset stomach to a complex and chronic gastrointestinal condition.

What tests will a pediatric gastroenterologist do?

Specific procedures performed by pediatric gastroenterologists include esophagogastroduodenoscopy (upper endoscopy), colonoscopy (lower endoscopy) , and liver biopsy. Pediatric gastroenterologists also treat bleeding, swallowing problems, malabsorption, and other problems encountered in the intestines.

Why would a baby need to see a gastroenterologist?

Gastroenterologists and other specialists can help you and your child manage chronic conditions , such as Crohn’s disease, a type of IBD, and cyclic vomiting syndrome. They can also help to diagnose and treat other common illnesses that have not responded to treatment, such as ongoing constipation or reflux.

What are the most common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders?

  • Bloating & Excess Gas. Bloating could be a sign of several GI disorders, like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), or food intolerance such as Celiac disease.
  • Constipation. ...
  • Diarrhea. ...
  • Heartburn. ...
  • Nausea & Vomiting. ...
  • Abdominal Pain.

How do I know if my baby has digestive problems?

The following symptoms may indicate the baby is having gastrointestinal problems: Vomiting: Spitting up and dribbling milk with burps or after feedings is fairly common in newborns. This is because the sphincter muscle between the stomach and the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to stomach) is weak and immature.

When should I see a pediatric gastroenterologist for constipation?

If their symptoms last two weeks or longer , or is accompanied by other worrisome symptoms such as fever, pain during bowel movements, or blood in the stool, it’s time to bring them into the Center for Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition for medical intervention.

Do gastroenterologists see kids?

Pediatric gastroenterologists treat children from the newborn period through the teen years . They choose to make pediatric care the core of their medical practice, which provides extensive experience specifically in the care of infants, children, and teens.

What happens at first gastroenterologist appointment?

Get on top of your general health

Next your gastroenterologist will examine your abdomen , feeling for masses or tenderness, sometimes percussing (tapping) or listening to determine the cause of your problems. They usually end by examining your anus, an unpleasant but important part of the assessment.

What is Pediatric Gastroenterology?

Pediatric gastroenterology is the branch of medicine that deals with the management of disorders of the childhood digestive system (esophagus, stomach, small and large bowel) as well as supporting organs (liver and pancreas).

When should I take my toddler to the GI doctor?

  • Abdominal bloating and pain.
  • Chronic diarrhea.
  • Weight loss.
  • Fatigue.
  • Vomiting.
  • Constipation.
  • Pale, foul-smelling or fatty stool.
  • Painful skin rashes.

How long is a pediatric GI fellowship?

The Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship is a three-year program designed to offer each trainee a strong clinical and research experience to prepare for the subspecialty boards in Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition.

When should I see a gastroenterologist?

You may be instructed to visit a gastroenterologist, a digestive diseases specialist, if you are experiencing symptoms such as abnormal bowel movements , rectal bleeding, frequent heartburn, abdominal pain, bloating, trouble swallowing, or are of age to begin regularly screening for colorectal cancer.

What is pediatric hepatology?

Pediatric hepatologists are children’s liver doctors . Nemours treats the most complex liver conditions, including liver cancer and conditions that need a liver transplant. Kids and young adults can develop problems with the liver because of an infection or other disease. Sometimes babies are born with liver issues.

How do toddlers get gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis is usually caused by a viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. The infection causes a combination of vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and poor appetite, which can lead to dehydration. The child’s symptoms and history of exposure help the doctor confirm the diagnosis.

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.