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Gastroenterology

Booking an appointment with a top gastroenterologist is now easier than ever with Apollo 24|7. Our user-friendly platform allows you to schedule an online gastroenterologist consultation or a physical visit at a trusted hospital or clinic near you. With a wide range of convenient appointment slots and access to the best stomach doctors and irritable bowel syndrome specialists, you can receive the care you need without hassle. Our experienced gastroenterologists offer personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Don't wait any longer; book a gastroenterologist appointment today and take the first step towards better digestive health.

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This includes organs from the mouth to the anus, encompassing the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and related glandular tissues. 
The specialty is critical for managing diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn), peptic ulcers, colitis, hepatitis, pancreatitis, and gallbladder diseases. As a vital aspect of healthcare, gastroenterology helps in the early detection and management of serious gastrointestinal disorders that can significantly affect an individual's quality of life and overall health.

Who is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a physician with dedicated training and specialised qualifications to manage diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and liver. This specialist has completed several years of additional training in gastroenterology after obtaining a medical degree. Typically, this includes a three-year residency in internal medicine followed by a fellowship in gastroenterology, which can last two to three years. 
Gastroenterologists are adept at performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures like endoscopies and colonoscopies. They treat a broad range of conditions, including acid reflux, ulcers, IBS, IBD, hepatitis, and cancers of the GI tract. Their expertise is essential for maintaining digestive health and managing complex gastrointestinal diseases.

What Does a Gastroenterologist Do?

A gastroenterologist, often referred to as a stomach doctor, is crucial in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions affecting the GI tract, liver, and pancreas. Their daily activities and the type of care they provide include:

• Diagnosis: Gastroenterologists perform a thorough assessment of symptoms and health history, complemented by physical examinations. They frequently use diagnostic techniques such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging studies to identify the exact nature of the GI issue.

• Management and Treatment: These specialists prescribe treatments ranging from medication management to dietary recommendations and therapies tailored to conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and liver diseases. They manage both acute and chronic conditions, adjusting treatments as necessary.

• Procedures: In their routine practice, gastroenterologists perform various procedures, including but not limited to endoscopic ultrasounds, sigmoidoscopies, liver biopsies, and polypectomies to investigate or treat gastrointestinal problems.

• Patient Education: Educating patients about their conditions and the impact of their dietary and lifestyle choices on their digestive health forms a significant part of their role. This education helps patients manage long-term issues effectively.

• Collaborative Care: They often work in coordination with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care, especially for patients with complex cases involving multiple systems within the body.

Gastroenterologists provide essential services in healthcare settings, combining expert knowledge with advanced medical technology to offer effective and efficient care. Their work is pivotal in enhancing patient outcomes in gastrointestinal and hepatic health.

What are the Other Sub-specialities of Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology encompasses a variety of sub-specialities, each focusing on specific aspects of gastrointestinal health. Understanding these can help patients seek the most appropriate care for their needs:

• Hepatology (Liver Diseases): This sub-speciality deals with the liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, and pancreas. Hepatologists manage conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

• Pancreatology (Pancreas Disorders): Specialists in this area focus on the pancreas, addressing acute and chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. They work closely with oncologists for cancer management.

• Advanced Endoscopy: This field involves specialised, non-surgical techniques that allow stomach doctors to view the gastrointestinal tract to diagnose and treat conditions without invasive surgery. Techniques include ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) and endoscopic ultrasound.

• Gastrointestinal Oncology: This sub-speciality focuses on diagnosing and managing cancers within the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, liver, pancreas, colon, and rectum.

• Paediatric Gastroenterology: Paediatric gastroenterologists treat infants, children, and adolescents suffering from digestive, liver, and nutritional problems.

• Motility Disorders: Specialists in this area deal with abnormal movements and contractions of the GI tract, such as achalasia or gastroparesis, often using manometry and other diagnostic tests.

• Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Health: This focuses on how nutrition impacts digestive health, addressing issues like nutrient absorption, diets for GI conditions, and the relationship between diet and disease prevention.

• Bariatric and Obesity Medicine: Experts in this field work on the gastrointestinal aspects of obesity, offering treatments such as gastric bypass surgery or other weight-loss surgeries.

• Transplant Hepatology: A highly specialised field dealing with liver transplantation, including the pre-operative and post-operative care of liver transplant patients.

• Functional GI Disorders: This sub-speciality deals with disorders where symptoms do not have an identifiable cause by conventional diagnostic methods, including irritable bowel syndrome specialists.

• Celiac Disease and Gluten-Related Disorders: Specialists diagnose and manage celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders, focusing on dietary adjustments to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Each of these sub-specialities provides targeted care that a general stomach doctor might not offer, allowing for more specialised treatment plans for patients with specific GI conditions.

What are the Gastroenterology Examinations or Tests Performed by the Gastroenterologist?

Gastroenterologists perform a range of diagnostic tests and examinations to evaluate the health of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and identify specific conditions. Here are some of the most common tests:

• Endoscopy: This involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera on the end (endoscope) into the oesophagus, stomach, and small intestine to visually inspect these areas. It’s used to detect ulcers, inflammation, tumours, and other abnormalities.

• Colonoscopy: Similar to an endoscopy, a colonoscopy allows the gastroenterologist to examine the inside of the colon and rectum. This test is crucial for colon cancer screening and can also identify polyps, inflamed tissue, and ulcers.

• Capsule Endoscopy: Patients swallow a small, pill-sized camera that captures images of the small intestine, an area that is hard to reach with traditional endoscopy. This test is often used when diseases such as Crohn's disease are suspected.

• pH Monitoring: This test measures the acidity in the oesophagus to identify gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and to determine the effectiveness of medications that prevent acid reflux.

• Manometry: This examination assesses the functionality of the oesophagus and stomach by measuring the muscle contractions in these areas. It’s especially useful for diagnosing conditions that affect the motility of the GI tract.

• Liver Biopsy: A small sample of liver tissue is collected and examined under a microscope to diagnose liver diseases, determine the severity of liver inflammation and fibrosis, and monitor liver health.

• Stool Tests: These tests check for hidden (occult) blood, pathogens like bacteria, viruses, parasites, or signs of cancer in the digestive tract.

Each test provides valuable information that helps gastroenterologists diagnose issues accurately and tailor treatment plans effectively.

What are the Common Conditions & Diseases that Gastroenterologists Treat?

Gastroenterologists address a wide spectrum of conditions affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and liver. Here are the top 15 conditions they manage, ordered by commonality:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and potential damage to the oesophagus lining.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A disorder characterised by abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits without any apparent damage to the gut.

• Crohn's Disease: A type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) causing inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain, severe diarrhoea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition.

• Ulcerative Colitis: Another form of IBD that specifically affects the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum, causing ulcers and inflammation.

• Peptic Ulcers: Open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine, often due to infection with H. pylori or prolonged use of anti-inflammatory drugs.

• Gallstones: Hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can block the flow of bile, causing pain, nausea, and potential complications.

• Celiac Disease: An immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, which damages the small intestine's lining.

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Can occur in any part of the GI tract, leading to bleeding that may manifest as blood in vomit or stool.

• Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, usually caused by viral infections, toxins (including alcohol), and autoimmune diseases.

• Liver Cirrhosis: Long-term, progressive damage to the liver that leads to scarring and liver failure.

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas that occurs as acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (long-standing) forms.

• Colon Cancer: Cancer of the colon or rectum, located at the digestive tract's lower end.

• Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon.

• Anal Fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus, which can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

• Haemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the lowest part of the rectum and anus, which can cause discomfort, bleeding, and itching.

Each condition requires a tailored approach to manage symptoms effectively and improve patient quality of life.

Reasons to See a Gastroenterologist

One should consider consulting a gastroenterologist when experiencing specific symptoms or medical conditions that affect the digestive system. Primary reasons to book gastroenterologist appointments include persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and changes in bowel habits such as chronic constipation or diarrhoea. Other critical indicators include rectal bleeding, frequent heartburn, or difficulty swallowing, which could signify serious gastrointestinal disorders. 

Additionally, individuals with a family history of GI cancers or diseases like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis benefit significantly from specialist evaluation. Early professional intervention can lead to better management of conditions, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life.

What Types of Procedures do Gastroenterologists Perform?

Gastroenterologists are trained to perform a wide range of therapeutic and surgical procedures to diagnose, treat, and manage gastrointestinal diseases. Here’s a breakdown of the top therapies and surgeries within this specialty:

Top Therapies:

1. Endoscopy: A non-surgical procedure using an endoscope to examine the gastrointestinal tract, helping to diagnose conditions like ulcers and cancers.

2. Colonoscopy: Used for examining the colon and rectum to detect and remove polyps and diagnose colorectal cancer.

3. ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): A technique combining endoscopy and X-ray imaging to treat bile and pancreatic duct abnormalities.

4. Capsule Endoscopy: Swallowing a small, wireless camera to take pictures of the digestive tract, commonly used to diagnose small intestine issues.

5. Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, but focuses only on the sigmoid colon and rectum.

6. pH Monitoring: Measures the acid in the oesophagus to diagnose and manage GERD.

7. Esophageal Manometry: Assesses the pressure and movement within the oesophagus to diagnose motility disorders.

Top Surgeries: 

8. Polypectomy: The removal of polyps from the colon or stomach during a colonoscopy or endoscopy to prevent them from turning cancerous. 

9. Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoids. 

10. Liver Biopsy: Removing a small piece of liver tissue to diagnose liver diseases. 

11. Enteral Stenting: Placement of stents in the intestines to open narrowed areas. 

12. Fundoplication: Surgery to stitch the top of the stomach around the oesophagus to reduce GERD. 

13. Gastrectomy: Partial or total removal of the stomach, typically to treat stomach cancer. 

14. Colectomy: Removal of part or all of the colon, often used to treat or prevent diseases and cancers of the colon. 

15. Bariatric Surgery: Various surgical procedures to help with weight loss, including gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy.

For those unable to visit in person, an online gastroenterologist consultation can provide initial assessments and advice on many gastrointestinal issues, guiding patients on the next steps for in-person diagnostics and treatments.

Why Choose an Apollo 24|7 Gastroenterologist?

Apollo 24|7 gastroenterologists are highly skilled and experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of digestive disorders. Our team of stomach doctors and irritable bowel syndrome specialists are dedicated to providing personalised, patient-centric care to help you achieve optimal digestive health. 
With access to modern facilities and the latest treatment options, our gastroenterologists are equipped to handle even the most complex cases. Whether you need an online gastroenterologist consultation or an in-person visit, Apollo 24|7 makes it easy to book gastroenterologist appointments at your convenience.

Our transparent pricing ensures that you are aware of the gastroenterologist fee upfront, with no hidden costs. Trust Apollo 24|7 for comprehensive, compassionate care for all your digestive health needs.

What to Expect When Visiting a Gastroenterologist?

Visiting a gastroenterologist involves a detailed assessment of gastrointestinal health, aimed at diagnosing and treating digestive disorders. Here's what patients can typically expect:

• Initial Consultation: Your visit will start with a detailed discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and any digestive concerns you may have. This helps the specialist understand your condition and determine necessary diagnostic tests.

• Physical Examination: The gastroenterologist may perform a physical exam, focusing on the abdomen to check for any irregularities or discomfort.

• Diagnostic Tests: Depending on your symptoms, you may undergo diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, or imaging studies. These tests help pinpoint the exact nature of your problem.

• Discussion of Treatment Options: After diagnosis, the specialist will discuss treatment options with you, which may include medications, dietary changes, or potentially procedures for more severe conditions.

• Follow-up Appointments: Management of gastrointestinal issues often requires follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust treatments as necessary.

Patients are encouraged to check gastroenterologist reviews to choose a reputable specialist and should also consider the gastroenterologist fee before scheduling an appointment. Finding a gastroenterologist near me is crucial for convenient access and continuity of care.

How Can I Get an Appointment With a Gastroenterologist?

Getting an appointment with a gastroenterologist at Apollo 24|7 is easy and convenient. Here's how you can book a consultation:

• Online Booking: Visit the Apollo 24|7 website and navigate to the "Specialities" section. Select "Gastroenterology" and choose your preferred gastroenterologist. Pick a suitable date and time, and complete the booking process by providing the necessary information.

• Mobile App: Download the Apollo 24|7 mobile app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Log in or create an account, select "Specialities," and follow the same steps as online booking to schedule your gastroenterologist appointment.

• Via Call: If you prefer to book over the phone, call the Apollo 24|7 helpline and speak with a representative. They will assist you in finding a suitable gastroenterologist and scheduling an appointment at your convenience.

• In-Person Booking: Visit your nearest Apollo 24|7 clinic or hospital and request an appointment with a gastroenterologist at the reception desk. The staff will help you find an available slot and complete the booking process.