Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which the lining of the esophagus changes after long term exposure to stomach acid, most often due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While Barrett’s esophagus is associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer, the overall risk is low. Ongoing monitoring helps identify changes early and guide appropriate care.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which eating gluten triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. Over time, this damage can affect nutrient absorption and lead to digestive symptoms and other health complications. Managing celiac disease requires careful evaluation and ongoing adherence to a gluten‑free diet to support healing and long‑term health

Cirrhosis is advanced scarring of the liver that occurs as a result of long‑term liver injury from conditions such as chronic hepatitis, fatty liver disease or excessive alcohol use. As scarring progresses, liver function becomes increasingly impaired and may lead to serious complications. Care focuses on identifying the underlying cause, managing symptoms and monitoring liver health to slow disease progression.

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches that can form in the wall of the large intestine become inflamed or infected. This condition may cause abdominal pain, fever and changes in bowel habits, and can range from mild to more severe forms. Care focuses on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation and preventing complications through individualized treatment and monitoring.

Fecal incontinence is the loss of control over bowel movements, leading to accidental leakage of stool. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle or nerve damage, changes in bowel habits or conditions affecting rectal function. Evaluation helps identify the underlying cause, and treatment is tailored to improve bowel control and quality of life.

Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in the gallbladder. While some gallstones cause no symptoms, others can block bile ducts and lead to abdominal pain, nausea or digestive complications. Evaluation helps determine whether gallstones are causing symptoms and guides appropriate management to relieve discomfort and prevent complications.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation of the esophageal lining. Ongoing reflux can lead to symptoms such as heartburn or difficulty swallowing and, over time, may increase the risk of complications if left untreated.

Gastroparesis is a condition in which the stomach empties more slowly than normal, even though no physical blockage is present. Delayed stomach emptying can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating or early fullness. Care focuses on identifying the cause, managing symptoms and supporting digestion through individualized treatment and monitoring.

Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, most often caused by viral infections such as hepatitis A, B or C. Some forms of hepatitis are short‑term, while others can become chronic and lead to long‑term liver damage. Evaluation helps determine the type and severity of hepatitis and guides appropriate monitoring and care.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic conditions that cause ongoing inflammation in the digestive tract, primarily Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms and severity can vary over time, and care focuses on managing inflammation, controlling symptoms and reducing the risk of complications.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which excess fat builds up in the liver in people who drink little or no alcohol. In some cases, NAFLD can progress to liver inflammation and scarring, which may increase the risk of cirrhosis or liver failure. Evaluation helps determine disease severity and supports appropriate monitoring and management.

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that plays an important role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. It may occur suddenly (acute) or develop over time (chronic), and repeated inflammation can lead to permanent pancreatic damage. Evaluation helps identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment and monitoring.

Peptic ulcer disease occurs when open sores (ulcers) form on the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. These ulcers most commonly develop due to infection with Helicobacter pylori or long‑term use of certain pain medications. Evaluation helps identify the cause and guide care to support healing and prevent complications.

Anorectal function testing, also called anorectal motility testing, is a group of diagnostic tests used to evaluate the strength, sensation and coordination of the muscles and nerves involved in bowel movements. These tests help assess how the rectum and anal sphincter function together and can identify abnormalities that contribute to symptoms such as chronic constipation, difficulty having bowel movements or loss of bowel control.

Capsule endoscopy is a noninvasive diagnostic test that uses a small, pill sized capsule containing a wireless camera to capture images of the digestive tract, particularly the small intestine. As the capsule travels naturally through the digestive system, it transmits images to a recording device worn outside the body, helping specialists evaluate areas that may be difficult to examine with other endoscopic procedures.

Colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum to identify abnormalities such as inflammation, bleeding or growths called polyps. During the procedure, a flexible tube with a camera is used to view the colon, and polyps or tissue samples may be removed when appropriate to support diagnosis, monitoring or preventive care.

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove abnormal tissue, such as large polyps or early‑stage cancers, from the lining of the digestive tract. EMR is performed using an endoscope — a flexible tube with a light and camera — to access the affected area and remove tissue without the need for traditional surgery. The procedure may also help determine how deeply abnormal cells extend into the digestive tract lining.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a specialized procedure used to examine and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts, which drain the liver, gallbladder and pancreas. ERCP combines endoscopy and X ray imaging to identify blockages or abnormalities and may be used to remove stones or relieve obstructions that affect normal bile or pancreatic flow.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure that combines endoscopy and ultrasound to create detailed images of the digestive tract and nearby organs, such as the pancreas, liver and lymph nodes. In some cases, EUS may be used to guide tissue or fluid sampling (biopsy) to help further evaluate abnormalities seen on imaging studies and support diagnosis and treatment planning.

Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic test used to measure the strength, coordination and pattern of muscle contractions in the esophagus. During the test, a thin, flexible catheter is passed through the nose into the esophagus to evaluate how well the esophageal muscles and sphincter valves work together to move food from the throat to the stomach. This test helps identify abnormalities that may contribute to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chest pain or persistent reflux.

FibroScan® is a noninvasive test that uses specialized ultrasound technology to measure liver stiffness and assess liver health. By sending painless sound waves through the liver, FibroScan® helps evaluate the presence of scarring (fibrosis) or fat buildup (steatosis) without the need for a liver biopsy. The test is performed externally on the skin and typically takes only a few minutes to complete.

Paracentesis is a procedure used to remove excess fluid from the abdomen, a condition known as ascites. The fluid may be collected to help determine the cause of abdominal fluid buildup or removed to relieve symptoms such as discomfort or pressure. Paracentesis helps support diagnosis and care planning for conditions that affect liver health and other abdominal organs.

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a procedure used to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine. Using a thin, flexible endoscope with a camera, specialists can evaluate symptoms, identify abnormalities and, when appropriate, perform procedures such as taking tissue samples, treating bleeding or removing growths during the same exam.

You may want to make an appointment with a gastroenterology or hepatology specialist if you have digestive or liver symptoms that are:

• Ongoing or worsening
• Affecting your daily activities or quality of life
• Not improving with initial treatment or lifestyle changes

Common reasons to consider a referral include persistent heartburn or reflux, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, chronic diarrhea or constipation, abnormal liver tests, or concerns related to liver or digestive health.

In many cases, your primary care provider can help evaluate your symptoms and determine whether seeing a digestive health specialist is appropriate. If you don’t have a primary care provider, Mayo Clinic Health System can help you find one.

Some digestive and liver symptoms may require immediate medical attention. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department if you experience:

• Severe or sudden abdominal pain
• Chest pain or pressure
• Uncontrolled vomiting or vomiting blood
• Black or bloody stools
• Signs of severe dehydration, confusion or fainting
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes combined with fever or abdominal pain

For non‑emergency digestive symptoms that are ongoing or worsening, your primary care provider can help evaluate your symptoms and determine whether seeing a digestive health specialist is appropriate. If you don’t have a primary care provider, Mayo Clinic Health System can help you find one.

Colonoscopy is one option for colorectal cancer screening. For people at average risk, Mayo Clinic experts recommend beginning colorectal cancer screening at age 45, even if there are no symptoms. A colonoscopy may be repeated at regular intervals when results are normal, based on your health history, risk factors and your care team’s recommendations.

Some people may need to begin screening earlier than age 45 or be screened more often if they have an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Risk factors may include a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain inherited conditions. Your primary care provider can help determine when to begin screening and which screening option is appropriate for you.

You'll need to prepare your colon for your colonoscopy. This will include drinking a solution that will help you empty your colon before the procedure. You'll receive instructions from your healthcare team.

At your first appointment, bring your current prescription information and any imaging or medical records from non-Mayo Clinic Health System facilities. Complete a medical records release form (PDF) to authorize the transfer of health records from another healthcare facility to us. Visit our Medical Record Forms page for this form and other forms in multiple languages.

Our Patient Account Services representatives can assist you with any issues related to billing and insurance. We also offer financial assistance if you are unable to pay for care due to financial hardship.

Yes. Simply call the appointment number at your preferred Gastroenterology & Hepatology location.

Always call 911 in case of an emergency. For after-hours help with other issues, get virtual care 24/7 through the Primary Care On Demand app or review our convenient care options.