Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that deals with the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders related to the digestive system. This includes the organs involved in digestion, such as the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Gastroenterologists, the physicians who specialize in this field, are trained to diagnose and manage a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, ranging from common issues like heartburn and ulcers to more complex diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and liver cirrhosis. They use various diagnostic techniques such as endoscopy, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to assess the health of the digestive system and develop treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Gastroenterology plays a critical role in maintaining digestive health and improving the quality of life for individuals with gastrointestinal disorders.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic condition where acid reflux leads to heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort in the esophagus over time.
Dyspepsia, or indigestion, is characterized by upper abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and discomfort, usually experienced after eating, often affecting daily activities.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease is chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, primarily including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder causing abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits.
This involves the use of a flexible tube with a camera and light (endoscope) to visualize the inside of the digestive tract.
During colonoscopy, polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon can be removed using specialized tools, reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.
This procedure combines endoscopy and X-rays to diagnose and treat disorders of the bile ducts and pancreas. It can be used to remove gallstones, or place stents.
EMR is used to remove abnormal tissues (such as precancerous polyps or early-stage cancer) from the digestive tract lining using an endoscope and special tools.
Swallowable camera capsule for visualizing the small intestine, providing diagnostic insight as it travels through the digestive tract.
This procedure involves stretching or widening a narrowed or blocked esophagus using specialized balloons or dilators.
A small sample of liver tissue is obtained using a needle to aid in the diagnosis of liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease.
Similar to colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy examines the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) and rectum.