A variety of gastrointestinal problems can cause abdominal pain
Patients with chronic abdominal pain benefit from a visit to our Plano gastroenterologist. While everyone has had mild abdominal pain, chronic mild to moderate pain probably signals that there is a problem that needs to be diagnosed. Michael Weisberg MD is an experienced board certified gastroenterologist who employs his experience to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal problems.
Possible gastrointestinal causes of abdominal pain
A myriad of issues can cause abdominal pain. Patients can rely on Dr. Weisberg for an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan. Pain in the abdomen, which includes the area between the chest and groin, may be due to a number of medical problems that a gastroenterologist treats.
- Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
- Constipation and diarrhea
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Ulcers
- Gastritis
- Pancreatitis
- Cancer of the colon, stomach, liver or pancreas
- Appendicitis
- Diverticulitis
- Cholecystitis, inflammation of the gall bladder, which can be caused by gall stones
What to expect during an office visit
When patients have an office visit, they should be prepared to answer certain questions that help our Plano gastroenterologist make an accurate diagnosis.
- What type of abdominal pain is it? Sharp or dull?
- Where is the pain? In one area of the abdomen or all over?
- How often does the pain occur and how long does it last?
- How long has this pain been occurring?
- Does any one thing, such as food or stress, make the pain worse?
- Is there anything the patient can do to make the pain better?
Our physician will take a thorough medical history, so patients should come prepared with a list of their medications and past medical conditions, surgeries and other medical information.
Dr. Weisberg conducts a physical examination and may recommend several diagnostic tests for the abdominal pain.
- Abdominal x-rays
- CT scan
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Upper endoscopy
- Upper GI series
- MRI and MRCP
- Colonoscopy
- Sigmoidoscopy
- Blood, urine and stool tests
Treating abdominal pain
After our Plano gastroenterologist diagnoses a patient’s abdominal pain, he creates an individualized treatment plan. Patients never see a nurse practitioner or a physicians’ assistant. They can rest assured that they will see Dr. Weisberg at every visit. Treatments may be as simple as making lifestyle and dietary changes, or patients may need medication or other treatment.
Abdominal pain is a common problem, but when it becomes a chronic issue or occurs suddenly and painfully, it’s time to see a physician. Contact us for an appointment to see our Plano gastroenterologist to determine what is causing the pain.