Gastroentrology

This department is managed by expert gastroenterologists diagnostic & Therapeutic procedure are carried out routinely viz; upper GI endoscopies and sigmoidoscopy, Endoscopic management of pancreaticobiliary, hepatic and esophagal disorders. All GI related emergencies like GI bleed, Acute pancreatitis etc are treated with excellent results.

Gastroenterology is branch of medicine focused on digestive system and its disorders. The digestive system includes the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, liver, pancreas, gallbladder. From common issues like acid reflux to chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease, gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of digestive health problems.

What Does a Gastroenterologist Do?

A gastroenterologist is a medical specialist trained to diagnose, treat, and manage disorders of the digestive system. These include conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. Gastroenterologists often perform procedures like endoscopies to identify the root cause of digestive issues.

Common Procedures Performed by Gastroenterologists:

Endoscopy (EGD): A non-surgical procedure to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
Colonoscopy: A diagnostic procedure to detect colon cancer, polyps, or other abnormalities in the large intestine.
Capsule Endoscopy: A minimally invasive way to examine the small intestine using a tiny capsule with a camera.
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde
Cholangiopancreatography): A procedure to treat bile duct and pancreatic conditions.
Liver Biopsy: A diagnostic procedure to assess liver diseases such as hepatitis or fatty liver disease.

Symptoms That Require Gastroenterological Consultation

1. Persistent Abdominal Pain
Recurring or severe abdominal discomfort could indicate conditions like ulcers, gastritis, or even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

2. Heartburn or Acid Reflux
Frequent episodes of heartburn or acid reflux may be a sign of GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), which requires medical attention.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without a clear reason could be a symptom of malabsorption, cancer, or other digestive conditions.

4. Constipation or Diarrhea
Chronic changes in bowel movements may indicate underlying issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or celiac disease.

5. Blood in Stool
This could be a symptom of hemorrhoids, colorectal polyps, or more serious conditions like colon cancer.

6. Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin and Eyes)

A symptom of liver-related issues, jaundice requires immediate evaluation by a gastroenterologist.

Diagnostic Tools in Gastroenterology

Endoscopy: Examines the upper GI tract.
Colonoscopy: Inspects the large intestine and rectum.
Ultrasound and CT Scans: Detects abnormalities in organs like the liver and pancreas.
Stool Tests: Identifies infections, inflammation, or bleeding in the digestive tract.
Breath Tests: Diagnoses bacterial overgrowth and lactose intolerance.

Treatments in Gastroenterology

1. Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid reflux.
Immunosuppressants for inflammatory bowel disease.
Antispasmodics for IBS.

2. Lifestyle Modifications:
Dietary changes to manage conditions like celiac disease and GERD.
Stress management for IBS and other functional disorders.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures:
Endoscopic removal of polyps.
Placement of stents for obstructed bile ducts.

4. Surgical Interventions:
Gallbladder removal for gallstones.
Colectomy for severe cases of ulcerative colitis or colon cancer.

Conclusion

Gastroenterology is a crucial medical field dedicated to the health and wellness of your digestive system. If you’re experiencing any digestive issues, don’t delay seeking help from a qualified gastroenterologist. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

Whether it’s routine screenings, managing chronic conditions, or addressing sudden symptoms, a gastroenterologist can provide expert care tailored to your needs.