Citizens Memorial Hospital | Vitality | Fall 2021

10 VITALITY Fall 2021 What is a gastroenterologist? If you’re having problems with your digestive system, your primary care doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in preventing, diagnosing and treating disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. That includes the esophagus, stomach, intestines, pancreas and liver. All of these organs have roles in aiding digestion. When you eat, food is broken down and nutrients are absorbed. It’s how your body gets the fuel it needs to function. Problems with any one of your digestive organs can interfere with this process. Depending on the organ affected, you may have symptoms such as heartburn, trouble swallowing, bloating, pain, nausea or diarrhea. SKILLED SPECIALISTS Specific conditions gastroenterologists address include: » Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). » Hepatitis. » Stomach ulcers. » Celiac disease. » Diverticulitis. » Nutrition problems. » Inflammatory bowel disease. » Cirrhosis. » Pancreatitis. » Cancer. Some of these conditions may also require surgery, which gastroenterologists don’t perform. But they do work with surgeons to make sure patients receive the best possible care. Gastroenterologists, however, may perform procedures that allow patients to avoid surgery. For example, there are nonsurgical techniques to remove stones from the bile ducts in the liver and to treat certain tumors. Other procedures gastroenterologists commonly perform include: » Colonoscopy. This involves a long, flexible tube with a light and camera. It allows doctors to directly visualize the large intestine—the colon—for signs of cancer and growths (polyps) that can be removed before they become cancerous. » Endoscopy. This procedure involves instruments similar to those used for colonoscopy. But they’re used to examine and treat the esophagus, stomach and other organs. Sources: American Board of Medical Specialties; American College of Gastroenterology HERE FORYOU Board-certified gastroenterologist Ryan Denney, D.O., and nurse practitioner Candi Erven, NP-C, are experts in gastrointestinal disorders. Ask for a referral to CMH Gastroenterology Clinic. Call 417-326-8700 for more information. Ryan Denney, D.O. Candi Erven, NP-C DIGESTIVE CARE