The digestive system houses the body’s immune system. It consists of the mouth, pharynx, oesophagus, small and large intestines, liver, and pancreas. These organs contain a variety of important nutrients and help the body process food.
If you’re experiencing abdominal pain, gastroenterologists can diagnose your problem and recommend the appropriate treatment. Gastroenterologists are highly skilled specialists in digestive conditions and can provide the most accurate and comprehensive care. They are also highly experienced in performing the most advanced endoscopic procedures and can interpret results accurately.
When to go to a gastroenterologist
There are several signs that you may need to see a gastroenterologist. Symptoms of bacterial gastroenteritis can range from mild to serious, and some can be life-threatening. Although the majority of gastrointestinal infections are caused by viruses, bacterial-initiated infections are almost as common. These infections are often referred to as “food poisoning.”
l Constipation
Chronic constipation is a sign that something is wrong with your digestive system. This condition can affect your personal, social, and work life. It is usually caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, diet, and activity level. Also, the frequency of bowel movements can vary from person to person. In the case of chronic constipation, it’s best to get medical attention as soon as possible.
l Diarrhoea
People who suffer from diarrhoea should consider visiting a gastroenterologist to find the root cause. Although the symptoms of these conditions often go away on their own, it is vital to visit a gastroenterologist if they continue to persist. Diarrhoea is one of the most common signs of digestive system problems.
l Heartburn
People suffering from heartburn should see a gastroenterologist to determine the cause of the problem. Heartburn is caused by a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. It can be very uncomfortable and interfere with a person’s ability to eat properly. If you experience heartburn for more than two weeks, you should call a gastroenterologist to schedule an appointment.
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l Rectal bleeding
Rectal bleeding can occur for various reasons. Some common causes include diarrhoea and constipation. The presence of hard stool can tear the skin surrounding the anus, causing rectal bleeding. Diarrhoea can also cause anal fissures, a tear in the anus lining. Haemorrhoids and other inflammatory bowel diseases can cause rectal bleeding.
l Yellowing Skin and Eyes
Yellowing skin and eyes can be indicative of a condition that affects the digestive system. These symptoms can lead to infection and can be accompanied by fever, chills, abdominal pain, and flu-like symptoms. If you notice that your skin is turning yellow, you should visit a gastroenterologist to determine the cause of the condition.
l Vomiting
Vomiting is a symptom of gastrointestinal disease and should be treated promptly. In some cases, vomiting may be accompanied by a fever, which can signal an infection or a neoplastic syndrome. Vomiting may also be accompanied by extreme pain. It may signal an allergy or a disease of the digestive system, such as gallbladder infection or appendicitis. In severe cases, it could indicate an intestinal blockage.
l Loss of weight
If you’re losing weight, you might need to see a gastroenterologist. This doctor will examine the inside of your digestive tract, including the colon and rectum. They may also do a CT scan or X-rays. These tests are used to diagnose diseases of the digestive system, including cancer of the oesophagus. In some cases, these tests are done in conjunction with blood tests.
l Dark urine
If your urine is darker than usual, you should consult a gastroenterologist immediately. It may be a sign of a bacterial infection or a kidney problem. A rare genetic condition called porphyria can also lead to dark urine.
l Excessive Gas
If you experience frequent bouts of excessive gas, you should visit your gastroenterologist as soon as possible. In addition to bloating, gas can also be a sign of a more serious GI disorder, such as oesophagal cancer. In addition to flatulence, other symptoms of excessive gas include abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, and changes in bowel habits.
l Abdominal pain or bloating
When you are experiencing stomach pain, bloating, or difficulty swallowing food, it’s important to visit a gastroenterologist to get diagnosed. These conditions can be symptoms of more serious problems. To find out if you have a digestive disorder, you can search for a gastroenterology doctor near me and schedule an appointment today.
Conclusion
Queen’s NRI Hospital has an excellent gastroenterology department. With a renowned faculty and a team of top gastroenterologists, this hospital offers comprehensive care for gastrointestinal disorders. It has a fully equipped endoscopy suite to enable gastroenterologists to perform a variety of procedures. It also encourages a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.