Digestive problems such as occasional bloating, indigestion, constipation or heartburn are common and often settle with simple lifestyle changes. However, some symptoms should not be ignored, especially when they are persistent, severe, or appear suddenly. Certain red-flag symptoms of gastrointestinal conditions can indicate bleeding, inflammation, obstruction, an ulcer, or another condition that requires medical evaluation.

Most people don’t think about the difference between a gastroenterologist and a gastro surgeon until they’re already sitting in a waiting room, unsure if they’ve booked the right appointment. Both specialists deal with your stomach, intestines, liver, and digestive tract, and the symptoms that send you looking for either one often look identical at first: