Cochise Oncology

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What Does a Gastroenterologist Do?

Your digestive system involves a lot of organs that work together to process food. Common annoyances like bloating or diarrhea are sometimes signs that something has gone wrong in that process. That’s when it’s time to see a gastroenterologist at Cochise Oncology!

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the digestive system and its disorders. This includes diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, and liver. The digestive system plays a crucial role in the body’s overall health and well-being, as it is responsible for the breakdown, absorption, and elimination of food and waste.

Gastrointestinal disorders can range from mild conditions like acid reflux and constipation to more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, and cancer. Gastroenterologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating these disorders.

What Do Gastroenterologists Treat?

Gastroenterologists are highly trained in treating a wide range of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders that affect the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Some of the common GI disorders that gastroenterologists treat include:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or chronic acid reflux and heartburn.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Peptic ulcer disease
Pancreatitis
Hepatitis or inflammation of the liver

Gastroenterologists also perform endoscopies, colonoscopies, and imaging tests to diagnose and treat GI disorders. Overall, gastroenterology is a crucial field of medicine that helps improve patients’ digestive health and quality of life. That’s why Cochise Oncology offers gastroenterology in addition to our services in medical and radiation oncology.

Signs it’s Time to See a Gastroenterologist

Since gastroenterology covers so many conditions, you may see a gastroenterologist for a number of reasons. Here are a few of the most common signs it’s time to schedule an appointment with a GI specialist:

Trouble swallowing
Frequent heartburn
Abdominal pain or bloating
Unexplained weight loss
Rectal bleeding
Ongoing diarrhea or constipation

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

Digestive Diagnostics in Gastroenterology

Gastroenterologists use various diagnostic tools, including endoscopies and imaging tests, to identify and treat GI conditions. During your appointment, your gastroenterologist will ask questions about your symptoms, evaluate your medical history, and may perform a physical examination. This will help them determine what further testing is needed.

We may test blood samples to check for things like anemia or fecal samples to assess the bacteria in your digestive system. Your gastroenterologist will use the results of these tests to determine your condition and create a treatment plan. Treatment options may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery, depending on the severity and type of the disorder.

Testimonials

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★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.