When It’s Not “Just Gut Stuff”
Gut issues can be miserable — but some symptoms aren’t just annoying. They’re warnings. If you’re experiencing any of the below, it’s time to stop Googling and go see a doctor.
Gut issues can be miserable — but some symptoms aren’t just annoying. They’re warnings. If you’re experiencing any of the below, it’s time to stop Googling and go see a doctor.
🚩 Blood — Anywhere It Shouldn’t Be
- Blood in your stool (red or black like tar)
- Vomiting blood or something that looks like coffee grounds
→ Ask your doctor for:
“I need urgent investigation — this could indicate bleeding in my upper or lower GI tract. I want a referral for a gastroscopy and/or colonoscopy.”
🚩 Unexplained Weight Loss
- Losing weight without trying
- Clothes fitting looser with no diet or exercise change
→ Say to your doctor:
“This isn’t intentional. I’m concerned something deeper is going on. Can we run full bloods, check inflammatory markers, and consider imaging or endoscopy?”
🚩 Difficulty Swallowing or Food Getting Stuck
- Feeling like food catches in your throat or chest
- Needing to wash things down constantly
→ Ask for:
“A referral for a barium swallow or upper endoscopy. I want to rule out structural or motility issues.”
🚩 Severe or Persistent Pain
- Waking you up at night
- Localised and sharp, not just general bloating
- Not responding to usual treatments
→ Ask your doctor directly:
“This isn’t going away and it’s affecting my life. I’d like imaging — maybe an abdominal ultrasound or CT — and a GI referral.”
🚩 Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhoea
- Ongoing for more than a few days
- Especially with dehydration, fever, or dizziness
→ Request:
“Stool tests, bloodwork, and referral to a gastroenterologist if things don’t improve quickly.”
🚩 Family History of Gut Conditions or Cancer
- Bowel cancer, Crohn’s, coeliac, ulcerative colitis
- You have symptoms and a close relative with gut issues
→ Be firm:
“Given my family history and current symptoms, I want a screening colonoscopy and coeliac panel.”
💬 Final Word: Advocate for Yourself
If you feel like something’s not right — trust your gut.
You are not overreacting.
You are not wasting anyone’s time.
Doctors can’t feel your symptoms. Be clear, be confident, and if necessary, ask for a second opinion.
“I’m asking for a referral — I’d like this thoroughly investigated.”