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A bloated stomach, nagging cramps, or unpredictable bathroom habits may seem like minor annoyances, but they can seriously interfere with your daily life and be early signs of something serious.
Approximately 60 to 70 million Americans are affected by digestive diseases each year, and unfortunately, many wait too long to seek help, brushing off discomfort until it becomes chronic or disruptive. The good news? Early evaluation and screening by a gastroenterologist can catch issues before they escalate.
Read on to learn about the most common digestive symptoms, the diagnostic tools that can help get to the bottom of what’s going on, and where to find the best GI doctor for abdominal pain in Los Angeles.
Symptoms and Screenings for Seven Common Gut Health Issues
Digestive problems can be tricky. Many symptoms overlap, and what seems minor could point to something more serious. Below, we break down seven gut health issues and the screenings we use to get clear answers:
1. Heartburn, GERD, and Acid Reflux
Occasional heartburn after a big meal is common, but if you’re feeling that burning sensation in your chest more than twice a week, it could be a sign of something more serious: GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD happens when stomach acid regularly flows back into the esophagus, which can cause lasting damage if not treated. Tests that can help diagnose GERD include:
- pH monitoring to measure acid levels
- Endoscopy to look for inflammation or tissue damage
- Esophageal manometry to see how well your esophagus is working
Treatment includes medication to reduce acid, along with changes to your diet and eating habits.
2. Gut Bacteria and SIBO
If you’re struggling with constant bloating, gas, or diarrhea that doesn’t seem to go away, Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, known as SIBO, might be the cause. SIBO happens when too many bacteria grow in the small intestine. A simple, non-invasive breath test is used to diagnose SIBO. If you test positive, treatment typically includes a short course of targeted antibiotics to reduce the excess bacteria, along with dietary changes that help maintain a balanced gut environment.
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a common digestive disorder that causes symptoms like belly pain, bloating, and changes in how often or how easily you go to the bathroom. But getting a diagnosis isn’t always quick. Because IBS doesn’t show up on standard tests, doctors first have to rule out other conditions like celiac disease, IBD, or infections. This may involve blood work, imaging scans, or even an endoscopy to rule out any more serious issues. Once IBS is diagnosed, treatment is personalized based on your symptoms. Many people find relief by following a low FODMAP diet. Others may need medication to manage pain, diarrhea, or constipation.
4. Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are two types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that cause long-term inflammation in the digestive tract. They can lead to serious symptoms like frequent diarrhea, blood in the stool, weight loss, and constant fatigue, making everyday life feel unpredictable and exhausting. Because these conditions require lifelong care, getting an accurate diagnosis is key. Doctors use a combination of tools, including colonoscopies, lab tests, and imaging studies, to determine the extent of the disease's spread.
Once diagnosed, treatment depends on how severe the disease is and whether it’s Crohn’s or colitis. Some people may need medications to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups, while others might require nutritional support or even surgery if symptoms become difficult to manage.
5. Ongoing Gas and Bloating
If you’re constantly feeling bloated or gassy, even when you’re eating healthy, it could be more than just your diet. To figure out what’s really going on, consider tests like:
- A breath test to check for excess bacteria
- An endoscopy to look for signs of inflammation or damage
- Food sensitivity screening to uncover hidden triggers
6. Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a common cause of rectal bleeding, itching, and discomfort. A quick, in-office visit with a gastroenterologist can confirm whether hemorrhoids are the cause of your symptoms and rule out anything more serious, like colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. If it is hemorrhoids, there are several discreet, non-surgical treatments available that can bring fast relief, like rubber band ligation, infrared therapy, or prescription creams. These options are done right in the office and typically take just a few minutes.
7. Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, yet it often develops silently, without any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That’s why regular screening is so important, especially if you’re over 45 or have a family history of the disease. When caught early, colon cancer can often be treated with less aggressive procedures, giving you a better shot at a full recovery. Taking the time to get screened could save your life.
What You Can Do to Improve Gut Health
Taking care of your gut includes a few simple habits:
- Eating a balanced diet with fiber-rich foods
- Staying well hydrated with water
- Getting regular exercise
- Limiting processed foods and managing stress
- Getting routine colon cancer screenings at age 45 or earlier if recommended by your doctor
Finding the Best GI Doctor in Los Angeles for Solving Digestive Issues and Improving Your GI Health
When gut issues interrupt your daily life, you need more than quick fixes; you need real answers. At Elite Digestive Health, Dr. Benjamin Basseri and his team deliver gold-standard care using advanced diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments that get to the root of your symptoms. We specialize in solving complex gastrointestinal problems with clarity, precision, and compassion. From colon cancer prevention to IBS, reflux, or unexplained abdominal pain, we offer elite, personalized GI care for patients from Hollywood to Century City in our private, state-of-the-art office in Beverly Hills.
Ready to see the best doctor for abdominal pain in Los Angeles for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment designed with your comfort and convenience in mind?
