Best Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialists in bangalore (38 doctors)

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Who is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a medical doctor specialising in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of conditions related to the digestive system, which includes the oesophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Gastroenterologists undergo extensive training, including a residency in internal medicine and additional fellowship training in gastroenterology. This specialisation equips them to address disorders like acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, liver diseases, and more.

Gastroenterologists play a critical role in preventive care through regular screenings like colonoscopies, which can detect early signs of colon cancer and other gastrointestinal issues. By diagnosing problems early and providing expert treatment, they help patients maintain digestive health and prevent complications. Their expertise is essential for both managing chronic conditions and promoting long-term wellness.

What do Gastroenterologists do?

Gastroenterologists specialise in diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions related to the digestive system. They perform various tests and procedures to assess digestive health and provide comprehensive care. Some of their key responsibilities include:

• Performing diagnostic tests such as endoscopies, colonoscopies, and liver function tests to detect gastrointestinal disorders.

• Managing digestive diseases like acid reflux, Crohn’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) through medication, lifestyle changes, or surgical referral.

• Treating liver and pancreatic conditions, including hepatitis, pancreatitis, and cirrhosis, with advanced therapies and monitoring.

• Detecting and removing polyps during colonoscopy procedures to prevent colorectal cancer.

• Providing preventive care through regular screenings, including early detection of colorectal and esophageal cancers.

• Offering dietary and lifestyle advice to manage chronic digestive issues and improve overall gut health.

Gastroenterologists are essential in managing both acute and chronic digestive conditions, ensuring long-term digestive well-being.

Why Visit a Gastroenterologist?

Visiting a gastroenterologist is crucial for maintaining digestive health and preventing serious complications. Here are common reasons to consult a gastroenterologist:

• Persistent digestive issues: If you experience ongoing symptoms like heartburn, bloating, or abdominal pain, a gastroenterologist can diagnose conditions like GERD or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

• Chronic constipation or diarrhoea: Long-term changes in bowel habits may indicate underlying conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)), which requires specialised care.

• Blood in stool: Noticing blood can be a sign of haemorrhoids or more serious conditions like colorectal cancer. Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

• Family history of digestive diseases: If you have a family history of colon cancer, Crohn’s disease, or other digestive disorders, regular screenings are important for early detection and prevention.

• Unexplained weight loss: Rapid, unintentional weight loss could indicate a serious issue like celiac disease, peptic ulcers, or even cancer.

• Liver disorders: Symptoms like jaundice, dark urine, or swelling may signal liver conditions such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.

• Preventive care: Regular screenings like colonoscopies help detect colon cancer early, improving treatment outcomes.

By consulting a gastroenterologist early, you can manage symptoms, prevent complications, and maintain a healthy digestive system.

What Diseases or Conditions Do Gastroenterologists Treat?

If you ever find yourself suffering from persistent stomach-related issues, a gastroenterologist in Bangalore can help you. These are doctors who specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the gastrointestinal tract. If you're on the hunt for the best gastroenterologist in Bangalore, it's important to know what conditions they can treat. Here are some of the common disorders that a stomach doctor in Bangalore can help you with:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This condition is characterised by abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits.

• Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This disorder causes stomach acid to frequently flow back into the oesophagus, leading to heartburn and potential damage to the gastroesophageal lining.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract is seen in disorders such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

• Colorectal Cancer: This is the second most common form of cancer and can often be prevented through early detection and removal of precancerous polyps.

• Coeliac Disease: This is an autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestine when gluten is consumed.

• Diverticulitis: In this condition, small pouches in the colon become inflamed or infected, resulting in abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits.

• Haemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, often caused by straining during bowel movements or pregnancy.

• Pancreatitis: This refers to inflammation of the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic. Common causes include gallstones or excessive alcohol consumption.

• Hepatitis: This is inflammation of the liver, typically caused by viral infections or excessive alcohol consumption.

• Gallstones: These are hard deposits formed in the gallbladder, causing pain and inflammation when they block the bile ducts.

What are the Procedures Performed by Gastroenterologists?

In addition to diagnosing conditions, a gastro doctor in Bangalore also performs several vital procedures. These procedures are integral to accurately diagnosing and treating various stomach-related issues. Let's take a look at some of the key procedures that a gastroenterologist in Bangalore might perform:

• Colonoscopy: This involves using a long, flexible tube with a camera to examine the colon and detect polyps or other abnormalities.

• Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine.

• Endoscopic Ultrasound: This procedure combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging to get detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding organs.

• Capsule Endoscopy: A small, wireless camera encased in a vitamin-sized capsule is swallowed by the patient. This camera takes pictures of the digestive tract as it passes through.

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: Here, endoscopy and X-rays are combined to examine and treat problems in the bile and pancreatic ducts.

• Liver Biopsy: A small sample of liver tissue is removed using a needle inserted through the skin. This sample helps in diagnosing liver diseases or conditions.

• Haemorrhoid Banding: A small rubber band is placed around the base of a haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. This causes it to shrink and eventually fall off.

• Polypectomy: During a colonoscopy, polyps can be removed from the colon. This can prevent colorectal cancer if done regularly.

• Oesophageal Dilation: A balloon or other device is used to stretch a narrowed or scarred oesophagus, making it easier to swallow.

• Faecal Transplant: Stool from a healthy donor is transplanted into a patient's colon. This rebalances the beneficial bacteria and can treat conditions like recurrent clostridium difficile infection.

Gastroenterologist vs. Gastrointestinal Surgeon: What's the Difference?

Can Gastroenterologists Perform Surgical Operations?

Gastroenterologists perform a variety of minimally invasive procedures, such as endoscopies, colonoscopies, and biopsies, to diagnose and manage digestive conditions. However, they are not trained to perform major surgeries. For complex surgical procedures like bowel resections, hernia repairs, or tumour removals, gastroenterologists refer patients to gastrointestinal surgeons. The distinction lies in the scope of practice—gastroenterologists handle diagnostic and non-surgical treatments, while gastrointestinal surgeons are responsible for performing surgical interventions when necessary. Both specialists work together to ensure comprehensive care for digestive health conditions.

How Often Should You See a Gastroenterologist?

The frequency of visits to a gastroenterologist depends on your risk factors, family history, and any existing digestive conditions. Here are general guidelines for different types of patients:

• High-risk patients: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, Crohn’s disease, or liver conditions, or if you suffer from chronic digestive issues like IBS or GERD, it’s advisable to see a gastroenterologist annually. Regular checkups allow for early detection of problems, timely interventions, and effective management of conditions.

• Patients with existing digestive conditions: If you’ve been diagnosed with conditions like ulcerative colitis, celiac disease,or hepatitis, frequent follow-ups every 3-6 months are necessary. This helps monitor disease progression, adjust treatments, and prevent complications.

• Low-risk patients: If you’re generally healthy and don’t have symptoms or a family history of digestive diseases, you may only need to see a gastroenterologist every 5-10 years, primarily for preventive screenings like a colonoscopy starting at age 45.

• Preventive care: Even without symptoms, regular screenings are crucial for early detection of conditions like colorectal cancer. High-risk individuals may require earlier and more frequent screenings.

By scheduling timely checkups, you can maintain optimal digestive health and prevent serious issues early.

What Does a Visit to a Gastroenterologist Cost in Bangalore?

The cost of visiting a gastroenterologist in Bangalore typically ranges from ₹500 to ₹1,500 for a consultation. First-time consultations may be on the higher end, while follow-up visits are usually lower. Additional costs may arise depending on the diagnostic tests required, such as blood tests, endoscopy, or colonoscopy. Basic tests like an abdominal ultrasound, liver function tests or stool analysis may add ₹500 to ₹1,000 to the overall cost, while more advanced procedures like an endoscopy or colonoscopy can add anywhere from ₹3,000 to ₹15,000 to the total cost. The total cost will vary based on the complexity of the condition and the tests or treatments recommended.

How Can I Find the Best Gastroenterologist in Bangalore Near Me?

To find the best gastroenterologist in Bangalore, use Apollo 24|7 Download the app and get started by browsing through profiles of top gastroenterologists, reviewing their qualifications and experience, and reading patient reviews. You can also filter based on proximity to your location for convenience. With options for online consultations, Apollo 24|7 makes finding and consulting with a gastroenterologist in Bangalore easier than ever.