The department of Gastroenterology at Aster Hospital specializes in the conditions affecting the liver and digestive tract, including the stomach, duodenum, gallbladder, pancreas, intestines, and colon. We have experts who professionally treat a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn), peptic ulcer disease, colitis, colon polyps, gallbladder disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), pancreatitis, gastrointestinal malignancy, liver diseases, etc. The team consists of highly accomplished Gastroenterologists including Surgical Gastroenterologists, Gastrointestinal Oncologists, and Gastrointestinal Radiologists supported by skilled nurses who provide exceptional patient care. The department has cutting edge technologies for high-precision procedures that aid in performing complex & simple procedures like Endoscopy, Colonoscopy and Endoscopic Variceal Sclerotherapy (EVS).
Our Doctors
We have some of the best specialists from around the world, they bring years of experience and offer evidence-based treatment to ensure the best care for you.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
Well equipped with the latest medical equipment, modern technology & infrastructure, Aster Hospital is one of the best hospitals in India.
The Department of Gastroenterology offers outpatient and inpatient consultations. Our Gastroenterologists perform comprehensive evaluations to diagnose various gastrointestinal disorders. assess patients' medical history, perform physical examinations, and order appropriate diagnostic tests such as laboratory tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans), endoscopic procedures (such as upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or enteroscopy), or other specialized tests to determine the underlying cause of symptoms.
Considering the factors such as the patient's overall health, medical history, and preferences; treatment options are suggested which may include lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, medications, and minimally invasive procedures. A regular follow-up is done to assess treatment response, adjust medications or therapies as needed and address any concerns or new symptoms that may arise.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
Well equipped with the latest medical equipment, modern technology & infrastructure, Aster Hospital is one of the best hospitals in India.
UGI Endoscopy
Colonoscopy
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
Enteroscopy
Liver Biopsy
Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS)
Sigmoidoscopy
Side Viewing Endoscopy
Upper GI and Lower GI Endoscopy (Diagnostic & Therapeutic)
ERCP
Capsule Endoscopy
Double Balloon Enteroscopy
Endoscopic Ultrasound- Diagnostic & Therapeutic
Oesophageal and Anorectal Manometry
24 hr GI Bleed Care
Liver Clinic- for patients with Liver & Gall Bladder diseases
IBD Clinic- Special care for ulcerative colitis &Crohn’s diseases
Some of the best technologies in the hospital includes:
Kerala’s third Da Vinci surgery robot
Highly advanced infection control HEPA filters to remove air borne particles
Highly advanced diagnostic equipment to detect and diagnose various liver conditions.
The unit provides round-the clock clinical services (outpatient, inpatient and emergency) in managing GI and liver diseases, in both adult and paediatric.
Multidisciplinary care
The department of gastroenterology is an integral part of the multi-disciplinary teams which includes GI and oncosurgery, GI and interventional radiology, Hepatopancreaticobiliary care, liver transplant and GI pathology which are involved in the management of complex gastroenterology conditions.
Breath Testing
Hydrogen and urea breath test
Manometry and PH
Oesophageal, anorectal, pH-impedance and biofeedback.
Endoscopy
a. Facilities
Endoscopy suites with dedicated recovery area.
High definition endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasound system.
Dedicated high resolution fluoroscopy unit.
Digital spyglass and laser system.
Paediatric endoscopy, colonoscopy, ERCP
Automated endoscope disinfection and reprocessing unit.
b. Diagnostic endoscopy
Including magnification NBI for early cancer
Enteroscopy, EHS and paediatric endoscopy
c. Therapeutic endoscopy
For bleeding, foreign body impaction, bile duct stones and treatment of early cancer
Endoscopic Ultrasound EUS
For CBD stones, mediastinal node, pancreatic biliary cancer cytology and biopsy
ORI Fusion Digital Integrated Operation Theatres With 22 Operating Rooms that are on par with some of the largest in the world, Aster Medcity, for the first time South India, introduces ORI Fusion Digital Integrated Operation Theatres using Karlstorz OR1 Fusion - Asia Pacific’s first complete digital integration system.
The integration enables real-time sharing of images, videos and medical reports, which not only facilitates virtual participation from any location in the world, but also helps the rest of the surgical team to monitor the patient closely during the operative procedure, much to the benefit and safety of the patient undergoing the surgery.
Aster Medcity is also the first surgical facility in the state to offer Robotic Surgery using high-precision da Vinci Surgery Robot.
- UGI Endoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
- Enteroscopy
- Liver Biopsy
- Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS)
- Sigmoidoscopy
- Side Viewing Endoscopy.
The Department of Gastroenterology offers outpatient and inpatient consultations. Our Gastroenterologists perform comprehensive evaluations to diagnose various gastrointestinal disorders. assess patients' medical history, perform physical examinations, and order appropriate diagnostic tests such as laboratory tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans), endoscopic procedures (such as upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or enteroscopy), or other specialized tests to determine the underlying cause of symptoms.
Also known as Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) involves the insertion of an endoscope through the mouth for internal examination. It is commonly used to evaluate symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or unexplained weight
It is primarily used for colorectal examination. It involves the insertion of an endoscope through the rectum to visualize the entire colon and rectum. It allows direct visualization and sampling of tissues (biopsies) for further analysis. This involves examining the large intestine for abnormalities like hemorrhoids (Piles), anal fissures, polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases (Ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s), intestinal tuberculosis, cancer, etc. A colonoscopy also allows for the biopsy or removal of suspicious lesions and is a crucial tool in colon cancer screening and prevention.
It is a non-invasive procedure that involves swallowing a small capsule containing a camera to capture images of your digestive tract, particularly the small intestine. It's typically used to diagnose lesions located in the small intestine that are not accessible to conventional endoscopy. This procedure is beneficial because it does not require surgery or anesthesia, and it is a less invasive way to diagnose diseases and abnormalities of the digestive tract. Furthermore, the images captured by the camera allow for a more accurate diagnosis.
ERCP combines endoscopy with fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat disorders of the bile ducts and pancreas including bile duct stones, strictures (Narrowing), leaks, and cancer. It involves the insertion of an endoscope through the mouth, passing through the stomach and duodenum to access the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. ERCP is used to remove obstructions and perform interventions such as stent placement or tissue sampling in cases of biliary or pancreatic diseases.
This diagnostic procedure combines endoscopy and ultrasound to obtain detailed images and information about the digestive tract and the surrounding tissue and organs. It involves the insertion of an endoscope equipped with an ultrasound probe through the mouth or rectum, providing high-resolution images of the digestive tract wall layers and surrounding structures. It is used for various indications, including diagnosing bile duct stones, bile duct strictures, chronic pancreatitis, evaluating gastrointestinal cancers, evaluating pancreatic lesions, guiding fine-needle aspirations for tissue sampling, and assisting in the placement of drainage devices. It is also used to obtain tissue biopsy from the abdomen and mediastinum(chest) for diagnosis (histological examination).
FibroScan is a valuable tool for assessing liver fibrosis, typically used in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory evaluations to provide a comprehensive assessment of liver health. The results of FibroScan, along with additional tests and patient history, help gastroenterologists and hepatologists in diagnosing liver diseases, monitoring disease progression, and determining appropriate treatment strategies.
The FibroScan procedure involves the use of a specialized ultrasound probe to measure liver stiffness. The patient lies on a table, and the probe is placed on the skin surface over the liver. The probe sends a vibration through the liver, and the resulting shear wave speed is measured. The liver stiffness is then calculated based on the speed of the shear waves, which correlates with the degree of fibrosis.
It's primarily used to assess the presence and extent of liver fibrosis, a condition often associated with hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, fatty liver, and chronic liver diseases (cirrhosis of the liver).
It is a non-invasive, quick, convenient, and repeatable procedure that reduces the need for Liver Biopsy.
This covers a range of procedures, such as polypectomy (removal of polyps), endoscopic dilation (stretching of a narrowed area), variceal band ligation, hemostasis (stopping bleeding) for ulcer bleeds, esophageal and duodenal stenting, helping treatment of many GI disorders without the need for invasive surgery.
Therapeutic endoscopy refers to a set of minimally invasive procedures performed using a colonoscope to treat various gastrointestinal conditions. It involves interventions such as removing polyps or tumors, dilating strictures, placing stents, treating bleeding lesions, and delivering targeted therapies. Therapeutic endoscopy offers a less invasive alternative to surgery, allowing for precise and effective treatment while minimizing patient discomfort and recovery time. It plays a crucial role in managing a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders and improving patient outcomes.
Therapeutic endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a specialized procedure used in gastroenterology for therapeutic purposes. It combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging to visualize and guide interventions within the gastrointestinal tract and adjacent organs. Therapeutic EUS enables the drainage of fluid collections, placement of drainage stents, injection of therapeutic agents, delivery of radiofrequency ablation for tumor treatment, and sampling of deep tissue lesions. It provides a minimally invasive approach for targeted interventions, aiding in the management of pancreaticobiliary disorders, gastrointestinal tumors, and other complex gastrointestinal conditions. We can also diagnose and treat conditions such as draining cysts, celiac plexus block for pain management in chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer and place stents in the bile or pancreatic ducts, and EUS-guided gastrojejunostomy.
Recognizing the critical role of diet in gastrointestinal health, our registered dieticians provide comprehensive nutritional assessments for our patients. Nutritional assessment and counseling are essential components of our gastroenterology care. Our dieticians help in identifying malnutrition, planning appropriate dietary interventions, managing symptoms, supporting treatment and recovery, preventing complications and monitoring treatment response. By addressing nutritional needs, our dieticians optimize patient outcomes and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with gastrointestinal disorders.
FAQs
Want to find out more about the treatment? The answer to your questions can be found below.
Why Aster MIMS for a Liver Transplant?
The experts work collaboratively, taking extra care of each patient’s medical condition to provide advanced care centered towards treatment and better quality of living. The hospital is equipped with superior industrial technology that offers robotics-assisted surgery for various liver conditions. In order to provide round-the-clock care, the hospital is equipped with active 24-hour services, and has upgraded facilities to treat all sorts of liver conditions, including chronic liver diseases and intensive care facilities for acute liver failure.
Success rate in Liver Transplant
It is very important for the patient to receive timely care and treatment in the case of liver diseases. A transplant can transform a life, but it is imperative to get it done at the right place to ensure chance of survival. At Aster MIMS, the doctors are highly qualified, and superbly trained in the latest treatment techniques to replace the diseased liver with a healthy one. Through procedures that impart proper care and diagnosis during the liver transplant surgeries, the patient can lead a normal life, as the liver is a unique organ in the human body capable of regeneration.
How obesity can be identified?
The ideal way to measure obesity is by calculating Body mass index (BMI) of a person. BMI is defined as a person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of his height in meters (kg/m2). Increased BMI shows high body fatness.
Do Genetic reasons cause obesity?
Genetic predisposition is one of the reasons for obesity, it is a well-known and currently proven fact. Around 43% of the general population is susceptible to become obese due to genetic factors.
Is obesity curable?
Obesity is a progressive and relapsing chronic disease which can be either prevented or reduced by losing weight by following a healthy dietary pattern and regular regimen of exercise.
What is bariatric surgery?
It is a surgical intervention to promote weight loss by making changes to your digestive system. Decreasing the size of the stomach creates a feeling of fullness when you eat.
When to opt for bariatric surgery, am I the ideal candidate?
Bariatric procedures are suggested to you if other weight management measures are failed and you suffer from obesity related health conditions
When should I be able to do exercise after bariatric surgery?
About 150 minutes of weekly exercises are suggested after the procedure, moderate activities like walking and jogging can be done depending on the individual’s health condition.
What is Gastro sciences?
Gastro sciences is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders in the digestive system including our body parts like the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and biliary system.
What should you expect on your first visit to a gastroenterologist?
During your first visit, your gastroenterologist will evaluate your symptoms and analyze your problem. He may also request you to undergo additional tests or procedures such as blood tests, endoscopic examinations, and imaging studies for diagnosis or treatment and imaging studies.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 should I bring to my appointment?
On your first visit, you should bring all your previous medical records, a list of medications (including dose), previous prescriptions if any related to the problem, an insurance card, and any valid Identity proof. You can also create a list of questions you'd like to ask during your visit. Make sure you jot down the physician's response. You should also bring cash, check, or credit/debit card to cover any visit co-payments.
When I visit a Gastroenterologist for the first time what should I expect?
Your doctor will study your files along with previous test reports to evaluate and diagnose your problem. If required the doctor may prescribe further diagnostic and blood tests for appropriate diagnosis and a plan for your medical treatment accordingly.
What problems can a gastroenterologist treat?
A gastroenterologist treats, diagnoses, and manages conditions of the gastrointestinal system as well as digestive organs. This includes everything from the esophagus and stomach to the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
What is fatty liver? What leads to this problem?
A fatty liver is the condition of accumulation of fat in liver. It can lead to inflammation in the liver and eventually lead to a variety of health problems. The Fatty lever is generally associated with many lifestyle factors. The most common cause is obesity, as well as excess alcohol consumption, diabetes, and high cholesterol. An unhealthy diet may also play a role in the development of fatty liver, as well as certain medications and certain medical conditions.
What advancements or technologies are utilized by gastroenterologists?
Gastroenterologists utilize various advancements and technologies, including endoscopy, which allows them to visualize the digestive tract and take biopsies, as well as imaging techniques like CT scans and MRIs to diagnose and monitor conditions such as Crohn's disease and colorectal cancer.
Will a gastroenterologist help manage side effects during treatment?
Yes, gastroenterologists can effectively manage side effects during treatment by providing tailored approaches to alleviate symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or digestive discomfort. They can also adjust treatment plans to minimize unwanted effects and ensure your overall well-being.
How should i prepare for my first visit to gastroenterologist
Before your first visit to a gastroenterologist, it's advisable to compile a list of symptoms, medical history, and current medications. Additionally, it's helpful to jot down any questions or concerns you may have regarding your digestive health to discuss during the appointment.
What is the role of a gastroenterologist in a patient's treatment?
Gastroenterologists play a crucial role in a patient's treatment by diagnosing and managing digestive system conditions. They provide care, perform diagnostic procedures such as endoscopy and colonoscopy, offer treatment plans, and help alleviate symptoms to improve overall digestive health and well-being.
Who is a gastroenterologist, and what do they do?
Gastroenterologists are medical professionals specializing in treating digestive system disorders. They diagnose and manage conditions such as gastritis, colon polyps, ulcers, and more. Additionally, they perform procedures like endoscopy and colonoscopy to aid in diagnosis and treatment. Contact us if you are on the lookout for the best gastroenterologist in Kochi.
How do Gastroenterologists decide if surgery is necessary?
Gastroenterologists determine the need for surgery based on various factors such as the severity of gastrointestinal conditions, response to conservative treatments, risks of complications, and impacts on quality of life.
What question should you ask a Gastroenterologist?
When consulting a gastroenterologist, consider asking about treatment options for your specific digestive issue, dietary recommendations, potential risks and benefits of procedures, follow-up care plans, and ways to manage symptoms effectively. Effective communication with your gastroenterologist is key to optimal digestive health care.
When should I consider seeing a Gastroenterologist?
Consider consulting a gastroenterologist if you experience persistent digestive issues such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, bloating, blood in stool, or unexplained weight loss. A gastroenterologist can help diagnose and treat various gastrointestinal conditions effectively.
What is the role of a Gastroenterologist in a patient's treatment?
Gastroenterologists play a vital role in diagnosing, treating, and managing various digestive system disorders. They provide expert evaluations, diagnostics like endoscopies and colonoscopies, personalized treatment plans, dietary recommendations, medication management, and follow-up care to help patients achieve optimal gastrointestinal health outcomes effectively.
Who is a Gastroenterologist, and what do they do?
A gastroenterologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system. They manage conditions like gastritis, reflux, liver diseases, and colon issues. When seeking gastroenterology doctors in Calicut, look for experts who provide comprehensive care for gastrointestinal problems with precision and expertise.
History of Aster Liver Transplants
Ever since then, the hospital has been judicious in adding better facilities to ensure timely care to its patients. The highly skilled team of medical professionals at the hospital performs transplants of foreign patients, while the aim of the process itself is to provide better quality of life. The surgeons follow state-of-the-art techniques in replacing the diseased organ with a healthy one. By making use of sophisticated diagnostic techniques they ensure that the surgery is productive, and the patient gets back to health with minimal hospital stay expenses.
What is Obesity?
Obesity is a complex disease characterized by abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat in body that may impair health. People who have obesity are prone to develop heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer.
What are the causes of Obesity?
The primary cause of obesity is the energy imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended. Overweightness is commonly caused by over eating and sedentary lifestyle. For instance, if you consume high amounts of energy, particularly fat and sugars, but do not burn off the energy through exercise and physical activity, much of the surplus energy will be stored by the body as fat. Factors that can lead to obesity are, Increased intake of energy-dense foods that are high in fat and sugars Decrease in physical activity due to the increasingly sedentary nature of work Environmental and societal changes associated with development Lack of supportive policies in health, agriculture, environment, food processing and education Diseases – Hypothyroidism, Chronic stress, Insomnia & Hypersomnia Eating Disorders Smoking cessation Drugs
What are the diseases associated with obesity?
There are several ailments associated with overweightness, an obese person has more chance to develop other disease conditions such as,
Cardiovascular diseases - Ischemic Heart Disease and Stroke
Hypertension
Insulin Resistance & Diabetes Mellitus
Dyslipidaemia
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea & Hypoventilation Syndrome
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease - NASH – CLD
Gallbladder disorders
PCOS & Infertility
Musculoskeletal disorders - Osteoarthritis
Cancers - Endometrium, Breast, Kidney, Liver, Prostate, Esophagus, Colon.
Psychological disorders.
The risk for these diseases increases with increase in BMI.
What are the treatments available for obesity?
The aim of the obesity treatment is to maintain a healthy Body mass index (BMI) to prevent many other diseases associated with obesity. Following a healthy dietary pattern and regular physical activity helps in sustaining overall health.
Is bariatric procedure safe?
Yes, it is relatively safe procedure with the help of cutting-edge modern technology and experienced medical team at Aster Medcity, Kochi
Are there any side effects of undergoing bariatric surgery?
The side effects of bariatric surgery are relatively lesser compared to the health issues that you suffer from obesity. Some side effects may include general weakness, malnutrition, temporally hair loss. You can overcome these issues by following the guidelines from dietitian and doctor.
When would I be able to return to work after bariatric surgery?
Usually, it may take up to one to two weeks to return to work, depending on the type of procedure that you undergo.
Who is a gastroenterologist?
A gastroenterologist is a physician who specializes in treating issues related to the gastrointestinal tract which includes our oesophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, and other digestive organs like the liver, pancreas, bile ducts, and gallbladder. These doctors not only prescribe medicines to treat gastric issues but also perform endoscopic procedures such as endoscopy and colonoscopy.
Which is the most common gastrointestinal disease?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and acidity are some of the most common gastrointestinal diseases.
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 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 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 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.
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.
Why do I need to see a Gastroenterologist?
If you have complaints related to the digestive system such as frequent abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or heartburn for a prolonged time you might need to visit a Gastroenterologist. Also, If you are 45 years or older and have a family history of GI cancer it is advisable to seek frequent checkups from a gastroenterologist.
How can I prevent colon cancer?
To improve your health and reduce your risk of colon cancer, you can make several easy lifestyle changes, such as limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight.
What are the first signs of liver damage from alcohol?
Alcohol abuse is linked to many health problems, including liver damage. The signs of liver damage from alcohol include elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, ascites, and swelling in the abdomen.
In more advanced stages of liver damage from alcohol, the liver can become significantly enlarged and tender. This is known as hepatomegaly. Additionally, fibrosis, or scarring of the liver, can occur and lead to cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is a condition in which the liver is permanently damaged and can no longer function properly.
What is the difference between endoscopy and colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure that examines the entire large intestine from the rectum to the cecum. During the procedure, a doctor will look for any abnormalities, such as polyps, ulcers, or tumors. The procedure can also be used to diagnose conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or diverticulitis.
An endoscopy, on the other hand, is a procedure that examines the entire digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. Unlike a colonoscopy, endoscopies are often used to diagnose or treat conditions of the stomach, such as ulcers, blockages, or cancers. Endoscopies can also be used to identify any problems in the small intestine, including Crohn's disease and celiac disease.
What types of digestive system conditions are addressed by gastroenterologists?
Gastroenterologists address a wide range of digestive system conditions, including acid reflux, ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, liver disorders, pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and various other issues affecting the digestive tract and its associated organs.
What question should you ask a gastroenterologist?
When consulting a gastroenterologist, ask about the best dietary and lifestyle practices for maintaining digestive health, options for managing your specific condition, potential risks and benefits of recommended procedures or medications, and what resources or support services are available for ongoing care.
When should I consider seeing a gastroenterologist?
You should consider seeing a gastroenterologist if you experience persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or any other digestive issues that affect your daily life. Seeking their expertise can help diagnose and manage these concerns effectively.
What are the most common types of conditions that gastroenterologists treat?
Gastroenterologists commonly treat conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, gallbladder issues, liver disorders, and gastrointestinal cancers. Their expertise also encompasses managing digestive symptoms and concerns.
What advancements or technologies are utilized by Gastroenterologists?
Gastroenterologists utilize advanced technologies such as endoscopic ultrasound, capsule endoscopy, minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopy, advanced imaging techniques, and robotic-assisted surgeries for precise diagnosis and treatment of digestive system disorders. These technologies enhance patient care outcomes and improve treatment effectiveness.
Will a Gastroenterologist help manage side effects during treatment?
A gastroenterologist can assist in managing gastrointestinal side effects that may arise during treatment for various conditions. They can provide supportive care, medication adjustments, dietary advice, and monitoring to alleviate discomfort and ensure the best possible outcomes during treatment.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a Gastroenterologist?
Before your first visit to a gastroenterologist, prepare a list of symptoms, medical history, medications, and previous test results. Bring relevant medical records, insurance information, and questions about your digestive concerns. Being organized and informed will help your doctor provide the best care.
What digestive system conditions do Gastroenterologists attend to?
Gastroenterologists specialize in treating a range of digestive system conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), liver diseases, gallbladder problems, pancreatitis, gastrointestinal cancers, and other disorders affecting the digestive tract. They provide comprehensive care for gastrointestinal health.
What are the most common types of conditions that Gastroenterologists treat?
Gastroenterologists commonly treat conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcers, liver disorders, gallbladder issues, pancreatitis, and gastrointestinal cancers. They provide expert care for a wide range of digestive system conditions effectively.
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