GETTING TREATED Are you experiencing chronic digestive issues and wondering what to do? The first step is to talk to your primary care physician about potential causes and treatment options. They may refer you to a gastroenterologist if you do not already have one. Currently, there is no reliable test to confirm IBS, and an IBS diagnosis is often reached by examining symptoms and eliminating other possibilities. Similarly, there is no known method to test for food intolerance. Your physician may request a blood or skin prick test to rule out a food allergy. A food intolerance diagnosis is often reached through an elimination diet and maintaining a food diary. Taking note of how your body responds to the absence of certain foods can help determine the source of your intolerance. WEBSITE PHOTOS BY GETTY IMAGES Complete Care for You Whether it's IBS, food intolerance or something else entirely, managing your digestive issues is paramount to living a happy and healthy life. At the GMC Primary Care & Specialty Center-Suwanee, you can stay on top of your health with access to experienced gastroenterologists, primary care physicians and specialty services, all in one convenient location. To learn more about the GMC affiliated gastroenterologists at our specialty center in Suwanee, visit gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/ suwanee. FALL 2018 53http://www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/suwanee