Gastroenterology
The diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the oesophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and other digestive system organs is the focus of the gastroenterology speciality. Gastroenterologists provide gastrointestinal (GI) therapies, which are remedies for issues with the digestive system. An expert in the diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the digestive system—which comprises the liver, pancreas, stomach, small and large intestines, and gallbladder—is known as a gastroenterologist.
About Gastroenterology
India is known for offering exceptional and widely accessible gastroenterology care, with some of the world’s top medical centres and hospitals specializing in treating gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. The country boasts a pool of highly qualified gastroenterologists and gastrointestinal surgeons capable of diagnosing and treating various digestive disorders.
Consulting a gastroenterologist is essential for the accurate diagnosis and treatment of GI disorders such as diverticulitis, stomach ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Coeliac disease, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
Procedure of Gastroenterology
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Endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a long, thin tube with a camera at the tip into the digestive tract through the mouth or rectum to examine the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. It is used to diagnose and treat issues such as tumours, inflammation, and ulcers. Patients are often sedated for comfort, and the camera captures images of the digestive tract to help identify any abnormalities.
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Biopsy: A small tissue sample from the digestive tract is taken by the gastroenterologist and examined under a microscope to diagnose conditions like cancer, peptic ulcers, hepatitis, endometriosis, and other infections.
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Gastrointestinal Surgery: Surgical interventions are performed to treat conditions like gallbladder disease, colorectal cancer, tumors, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and for weight loss (bariatric surgery). Common surgical approaches include laparoscopic (minimally invasive) and open surgery. Recovery times vary depending on the invasiveness of the procedure.
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Medications: Some GI disorders can be effectively managed with medication, without the need for surgery or endoscopic procedures. Common medications include proton pump inhibitors, antacids, laxatives, and anti-diarrheal drugs.
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Alternative Therapies: Non-conventional treatments may be used to manage GI symptoms. These therapies include acupuncture, herbal remedies (such as ginger and peppermint for nausea and indigestion), probiotics, and mind-body therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).