Gastrointestinal Cancer Specialist

What is gastrointestinal cancer?

The term gastrointestinal cancer refers to several chronic diseases that cause the cells in your stomach, rectum, colon, or liver to divide and multiply uncontrollably. Experts aren’t entirely sure what causes gastrointestinal cancer. It’s thought that various things, including genetics, lifestyle, and underlying medical conditions can play a role.

Though there’s no way to entirely prevent gastrointestinal cancer, healthy lifestyle changes and preventive screenings can significantly lower your risk. If you’re concerned about your risk of gastrointestinal cancer, contact North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC today.

What are the types of gastrointestinal cancer?

North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC diagnoses and treats various types of gastrointestinal cancer, including:

• Colorectal cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Gastric (stomach) cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Anal cancer

You can also benefit from treatment if you have neuroendocrine and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Neuroendocrine tumors can occur anywhere in the body and grow slowly over time. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors cause abnormal cells to form in the gastrointestinal tract. Some grow slowly; others develop and spread rapidly.

What are the symptoms of gastrointestinal cancer?

Early on, gastrointestinal cancer presents few symptoms. As the cancerous cells divide and multiply, you can experience difficulty swallowing, indigestion, bloating, and frequent abdominal cramps. Other telltale signs of gastrointestinal cancer include unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel function, and anal bleeding.

How is gastrointestinal cancer diagnosed?

To diagnose gastrointestinal cancer, North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC reviews your medical history, asks you about your symptoms, and does a physical exam. If these measures aren’t enough to determine the cause of your symptoms, your doctor can order an endoscopy or colonoscopy to assist with making a diagnosis.

If your doctor discovers any abnormalities, like growths or tumors, they can order blood tests and take a biopsy. A biopsy is a tissue sample that’s sent to a lab for additional analysis and testing.

How is gastrointestinal cancer treated?

The treatment for gastrointestinal cancer depends on the type of cancer you have, its severity, and its effect on your quality of life. Typically, North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC recommends a combination of conservative treatments and healthy lifestyle changes. For example, if the tumor is easy to access, your doctor can remove it during outpatient surgery.

If removing the tumor would harm your digestive function, your doctor might recommend a less-invasive procedure like chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy.

To receive treatment for gastrointestinal cancer, request a consultation at North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC. Call the nearest office to speak with a team member, or book online today.