PeaceHealth Vancouver Gastroenterology

Specialty Care for Stomach & Digestive Problems

Gastroenterology is the medical specialty that diagnoses and treats problems with the digestive system, including esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, pancreas, liver and gallbladder. Providers in this field are sometimes referred to as "GIs," which is for short for "gastrointestinal."

The most common conditions treated by gastroenterologists include:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBS)
• Crohn's Disease
• EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy or upper endoscopy)
• Ulcerative Colitis
• Liver Disease
• Chronic Constipation

If you have pain or discomfort when you eat, drink or have bowel movements, your primary-care provider can help determine if you need to see a GI specialist.

You may also be referred to a GI specialist for routine screenings such as a colonoscopy, depending on your age or family medical history.