Your gut is often the first to signal when something’s not quite right. While occasional bloating or indigestion may be harmless, certain symptoms should never be ignored. Gastroenterologists flag warning signs that call for further evaluation:
- Unintentional weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Changes in bowel movements—narrower, more or less frequent, a different color or consistency
- Blood in the stool—whether bright red, maroon, or black and tarry
- Chronic or recurrent abdominal pain, especially if it disrupts sleep
- Low blood counts (measured by your healthcare provider) fatigue or unexplained weakness
These red flags help your doctor determine when urgent testing is needed, because these symptoms may be early indicators of serious conditions like colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease or malabsorption disorders. And be aware that risk increases with age—especially after 50—or with a family history of GI cancers. But early detection saves lives. So if you have questions about your gut health, start by talking with your primary care provider, who may refer you to a specialist in gastroenterology. Trust your gut. Take action when it speaks.
KUAKINI HEALTH SYSTEM
347 N. Kuakini St., Honolulu, HI 96817
kuakini.org
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