When do you need to see a gastroenterologist?
If you are having severe digestive issues such as frequent flatulence (gas), abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, jaundice, bowel movements, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, constipation, bloating, trouble in swallowing and frequent heartburn or if you have anything else that is affecting your digestive system then you must consult a gastroenterologist. It is also advisable that people who have a family history of GI cancer and Inflammatory bowel diseases must get them checked by a gastroenterologist at regular intervals.
Gastroenterologists are not only concerned with disorders related to the stomach and intestines but also provide treatment for diseases of the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver.
What is Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy?
Gastroscopy and colonoscopy is the procedure/test to check your upper digestive system to diagnose an ulcer, cancer, and a biopsy. This will also help in the treatment of bleeding, the removal of foreign bodies as well as the removal of early cancer.
What are polyps and what causes them?
Polyps are the growth that develops on the lining of the colon. They may cause symptoms or grow into colon cancer, Hence they require special attention and treatment.
What is Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and how does it occur?
GERD is the repeated flow of stomach acid in the oesophagus and can irritate the inner lining of the oesophagus. This condition presents itself as - A burning sensation in the chest that usually occurs after eating or at night Pain that worsens when lying down Bitter acidic taste in the mouth Chronic cough or food refluxing back into the mouth.
What is heartburn and how do you get it?
Heartburn is the feeling of a burning sensation in your chest that often gets worse after eating or while lying down or bending over. This condition usually occurs due to stomach acid reflux in the oesophagus. While heartburn is an occasional condition and can be managed through lifestyle changes, however, if it occurs frequently and impacts your daily routine then you may require medical care.
What are haemorrhoids and how are they treated?
Also known as piles, Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum that usually develop inside the rectum or under the skin around the anus. There are different types of haemorrhoids - External haemorrhoids: These develop under the skin around the anus and cause swelling around the anus along with pain and itching, Internal haemorrhoids: These develop inside the rectum causing painless bleeding during bowel movements. Thrombosed haemorrhoids: In some cases, blood within the haemorrhoids sets thrombosed leading to severe pain. Treatment: Treatment includes laxatives, ointment, banding or surgery.
How can you identify Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis?
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can be identified through various symptoms. These include - Diarrhea, Fever, Loss of appetite Abdominal pain and cramping Unintended weight loss Fatigue Blood in the stool.
What is inflammatory bowel disease? and How do you get it?
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a term that is used to describe long-standing chronic inflammatory disorders in your digestive tract due to a dysregulation of the immune system. The most common types of IBD are - Ulcerative colitis - This type of IBD causes long-lasting ulcers and inflammations in the large intestine and rectum. Crohn’s disease - This condition affects your GI tract and leads to abdominal pain, severe diarrhoea, malnutrition, fatigue and weight loss. While Crohn’s disease mostly affects the small intestine, however, it can also affect the large intestine and the upper gastrointestinal tract. Even though there is no cure for this condition, certain treatment options can help in controlling the disease and can relieve the symptoms.
Currently, the exact cause of IBD is unknown, but this condition mostly occurs due to immune system malfunction. Several risk factors such as family history, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, and smoking can also affect IBD.
Which bacteria can cause gastrointestinal infection?
Various bacteria can cause one or more disorders related to the GI tract. These include - E. coli Salmonella Shigella Campylobacter Clostridium.
How are gastrointestinal problems caused?
Several factors such as food bacteria, infection, stress, medications, and chronic medical conditions like Crohn’s disease, IBS, and colitis can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
