Gastroenterology is a domain of medical science that is majorly focused on digestive health, the Gastrointestinal or GI track in particular. A gastroenterologist can diagnose, manage and treat a variety of health problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and even liver diseases. While many people consult their primary care doctor when faced with a digestive issue, it is important to understand that many of them require specialized care.
There are various digestion-related issues for which you must visit the best gastroenterologist in Sir Ganga Ram hospital or similar medical centre for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Here especially are some signs that indicate that you need to consult a gastroenterologist:
Difficulty in swallowing: If you feel that something has got stuck in your food pipe, then an upper GI endoscopy might be required for diagnosis and further management of the condition. An endoscopic procedure is commonly performed by gastroenterologists to diagnose issues like tumour of the esophagus, achalasia cardia, and reflux esophagitis. It can also be used to diagnose stricture, which refers to the narrowing of the esophagus. These conditions can be ideally managed through endoscopy or medications. In certain cases, surgery might be required as well.
Long-standing acidity and indigestion: While indigestion and acidity are pretty common issues and can be managed by over-the-counter medication, it is important to consult a specialist if the problems are long-standing and chronic. There is a chance that you might have an H Pylori infection. If you experience sudden weight loss, persistent nausea, and vomiting or find blood in the stool, in addition to having acidity and indigestion, then a gastroenterologist should especially be contacted at once.
Blood in vomiting: Finding blood in the vomit is a medical emergency, and you should never ignore it. Patients typically need emergency endoscopy, in addition to medical management and resuscitation in this situation. Active bleeding can be controlled by endoscopy, and this procedure can also help in preventing any further bleeding.
Chronic diarrhoea: Diarrhoea typically occurs after the consumption of water or food that features infectious agents like bacteria or viruses. Short-lasting diarrhoea can be managed by drinking adequate water and having certain over-the-counter medicines. However, chronic diarrhoea that lasts for a month or more can lead to high weight loss and even malnutrition. In this situation, it is important to go for a proper laboratory and endoscopic evaluation of the condition to find its core cause. Gluten sensitivity, food allergies, as well as inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are some of the key digestive issues that may cause persistent diarrhoea. Without consultation and evaluation by a specialized medical professional, many of these conditions can remain undetected for months.
Haemorrhoids: Even though haemorrhoids are not fatal, this condition can make life pretty miserable for many. While most haemorrhoids do occur outside of the anus and are quite simple to manage and treat, internal haemorrhoids can be much more challenging. Gastroenterologists at times treat internal haemorrhoids with the help of a colonoscopy procedure.
In case you face any of the issues mentioned above, then it is important that you contact the best gastroenterologist sir Ganga Ram hospital, or some other similarly well-established medical centre at once.
