Gut Health: GP Reviewed Information
Digestive symptoms are extremely common in primary care. Issues such as bloating, reflux, changes in bowel habits or abdominal discomfort can affect day to day life and are often raised during GP appointments.
This section of the AccessGP Knowledge Base explains common gut symptoms, what they may indicate and how they are usually explored in a safe primary care setting.
A private GP can help decide whether simple lifestyle measures, investigations or further tests are appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.
What this gut health section covers
This section includes GP reviewed summaries of common digestive and gastrointestinal topics. These articles give clear, reassuring information about symptoms people often ask about and how they are usually assessed.
The topics include:
- bloating and abdominal discomfort
- acid reflux and heartburn
- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) style symptoms
- constipation and diarrhoea patterns
- indigestion
- food intolerance concerns
- coeliac screening
- gallbladder symptoms
- when blood tests or imaging may be relevant
- when to speak with a GP
Each article provides clear, non diagnostic information based on current clinical understanding.
Common reasons adults seek GP advice for gut symptoms
Many adults experience digestive symptoms at some point. People may seek advice when symptoms become persistent, keep returning or affect daily activities.
Common reasons include:
- ongoing bloating or abdominal fullness
- changes in bowel habits
- heartburn or reflux symptoms
- upper abdominal discomfort
- irritable bowel pattern symptoms
- indigestion after eating
- concern about food intolerances
- digestive symptoms linked to stress or anxiety
- unexplained fatigue or nutrient concerns
- symptoms affecting appetite or energy levels
- advice on which tests are appropriate
GPs consider history, symptom patterns, diet and lifestyle factors before recommending any tests or treatments.
Types of gut related topics explained in this section
Below is an overview of the main areas covered. Each has a separate detailed article within the Knowledge Base.
Bloating and abdominal discomfort
Bloating can be linked to diet, irritable bowel patterns, indigestion or fluctuations in gut movement. A GP explores duration, triggers and associated symptoms to guide next steps.
Reflux and heartburn
Reflux symptoms occur when stomach acid moves upwards causing burning, chest tightness or throat symptoms. Assessment often includes lifestyle review and consideration of short term treatment if appropriate.
Irritable bowel syndrome style symptoms
IBS describes recurring bowel pattern changes with abdominal discomfort. GP assessment focuses on symptom history, flare patterns, diet, stress and exclusion of red flags. Simple tests may sometimes be recommended.
Constipation
Constipation is common and may be linked to hydration, fibre intake, bowel movement habits or medicines. Persistent symptoms can be evaluated safely in primary care.
Diarrhoea or loose stools
HbA1c reflects blood sugar levels over several months and is used to screen for and monitor diabetes.
Indigestion
Indigestion describes upper abdominal discomfort or fullness after meals. Triggers include certain foods, large meals or stress. GP evaluation helps identify patterns and consider short term treatments.
Food intolerance concerns
Some people experience digestive sensitivity after specific foods. A GP can review symptoms, pattern diaries and when to consider medical testing such as coeliac screening.
Coeliac disease screening (tTG-IgA)
This blood test may be suggested when symptoms include bloating, diarrhoea, iron deficiency or a family history of coeliac disease. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms and diet history.
Gallbladder symptoms overview
Gallbladder issues can cause upper right abdominal discomfort, nausea or episodes linked to fatty meals. Ultrasound is usually the first line investigation when appropriate.
How a GP assesses gut symptoms
Gut symptoms are explored using a combination of:
- detailed symptom history
- diet and lifestyle review
- medication history
- simple blood tests when needed
- consideration of intolerances or functional gut issues
- imaging when specific symptoms suggest a structural cause
- review for red flags that require urgent assessment
Most digestive symptoms can be managed within a primary care setting with advice, lifestyle measures and reassurance.
Linking gut symptoms to wider health checks
Digestive issues can connect with other areas of health. Fatigue may relate to nutrient levels. Reflux may connect with diet or stress. Bowel pattern changes may relate to lifestyle, hydration or functional gut conditions.
Your GP may discuss:
- relevant blood tests such as iron, vitamin B12, ESR or coeliac screening
- lifestyle measures
- trial of dietary adjustments
- when imaging is appropriate
- when referral is needed
Gut symptoms are very common and often improve with clear guidance.
When to book a GP appointment about gut symptoms
Consider a GP consultation if:
- symptoms are ongoing or frequently recur
- you are unsure which tests are appropriate
- symptoms affect normal activities or comfort
- you have reflux or indigestion that does not settle
- you notice bowel habit changes
- you have concerns about intolerances
- you prefer a tailored plan for gut related issues
- you need help interpreting previous results
- you want a complete private health check that includes gut symptoms
A private GP can provide clear next steps, decide whether tests are appropriate and support you with ongoing concerns.
If you would like to discuss gut health or plan a private health check, you can book an online GP appointment with AccessGP.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 7 December 2025