Specialty Area: Gastroenterology
Description of Specialty: A gastroenterologist evaluates patients with complaints and
diseases involving the intestinal tract from the mouth to the rectum.
1. Diagnosis: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Questions that should be asked:
- What causes reflux and is it related to a hiatal hernia?
- How severe is my reflux disease, and what can I do to improve my condition?
- What types of treatment are available, can complications occur and what if the treatment
does not work?
- What kind of follow up is required?
2. Diagnosis: Peptic Ulcer Disease
Questions that should be asked:
- What caused the ulcer and is there a cure?
- Can any complications occur, how will I know, and what should I do then?
- Is further testing needed now or later?
- What role does diet play in this disease?
3. Diagnosis: Lactose Intolerance
Questions that should be asked:
- How do I know if I am lactose intolerant and can this condition be associated with other
conditions of the intestinal tract?
- Is further testing needed to make a diagnosis?
- How can changing the diet help the symptoms?
- What is the long-term prognosis for this disorder?
4. Diagnosis: Celiac Sprue (Gluten Intolerance)
Questions that should be asked:
- What is causing this disease and how did I get it?
- How do I know, that I'm getting better?
- Do I need extra vitamins and should I see a dietitian?
- How is the prognosis?
5. Diagnosis: Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Questions that should be asked:
- What kind of therapy is available. are there side effects and how should the treatment
be monitored?
- How do I know if the treatment is working, and what complications can occur?
- What should I eat and what should I avoid?
- Where do I go to get more information and support?
- Is surgery indicated?
- If yes, when?
6. Diagnosis: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Questions that should be asked:
- Will further tests have to be done, and what can I do to feel better?
- Does medication help and are there any alternatives?
- Does diet or stress play a role?
- What's the prognosis?
7. Diagnosis: Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis
Questions that should be asked:
- Is this a disease and will it get worse?
- Should I change my diet or avoid certain foods?
- When does treatment become necessary?
- Is surgery needed?
8. Diagnosis: Colon Polyp
Questions that should be asked:
- What causes a polyp to form and should it be removed?
- Is follow-up needed?
- Should my family be checked?
- Can polyps lead to cancer?
9. Diagnosis: Hemorrhoids
Questions that should be asked:
- What is a hemorrhoid?
- What kind of treatment is available?
- Should I change my eating habits?
- Is surgery needed?
10. Tests:
- How often should a sigmoidoscopy be done?
- How often should a colonoscopy?
- How often should the stool be checked for blood?
- Is age a factor in considering doing the tests mention?
Erik P. Thyssen, M.D. Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Department of Medicine
Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, MO.