Understanding Gastroenterology
Gastroenterology is a branch of medicine primarily focusing on the digestive system and its disorders by understanding, diagnosing, treating and preventing gastrointestinal (GI) tract diseases. The GI tract comprises the oesophagus, stomach, small and large intestine, which includes the colon and rectum, liver, gallbladder and pancreas.
Common digestive disorders
– Liver diseases such as hepatitis
– Pancreatic disorders such as pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer
– Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) causes pain, bloating and problems with bowel movements
– Gastroesophageal reflux, which can lead to heartburn
– Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease
What to expect during a gastroenterology visit
The first visit with a gastroenterologist or general surgeon revolves around your and your family’s medical history, symptoms and other helpful information for the doctor to diagnose the problem better. Firstly, an abdominal examination may be done to check for tenderness or any abnormalities. Based on the medical history and symptoms, the doctor can recommend further analysis through specific diagnostic tests. These can include:
– Gastroscopy
– Colonoscopy
– Anoscopy
– Blood tests
Specific tests which include the helicobacter pylori test, the faecal occult blood test (FOB) test for screening purposes and anoscopy for rectal disorders.
Once diagnosed, treatment options, lifestyle modifications, and, if necessary, surgery are discussed.
Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy
Upper endoscopy
With upper endoscopy, we usually refer to an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), commonly known as gastroscopy, which analyses the oesophagus, stomach and the initial part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum, by inserting a tube with a camera into the mouth. A gastroscopy may be indicated for various diagnostic purposes, such as:
– Assessing of dysphagia: the difficulty swallowing
– Identifying ulcers: whether they are gastric or duodenal, as well as their severity
– Identifying causes of abdominal pain
– Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease
Lower endoscopy
A lower endoscopy is commonly known as a colonoscopy, and as the name suggests, it focuses on the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract, specifically the colon and rectum. A colonoscopy can be conducted to examine, diagnose and as a preventative measure for:
– Colorectal cancer: By identifying precancerous polyps
– Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
– Follow up after positive stool tests: positive faecal occult blood test (FOB) needs a colonoscopy for further analysis.
Anoscopy
For specific cases, anoscopy examines the anal canal and lower rectum, using a shorter, less invasive procedure without anaesthesia.
Understanding gastroenterology is crucial for proactive management of digestive health. Routine examinations, prompt diagnosis, and customised care ensure the health of your digestive system.
To book for a gastroenterology visit or for more information, please contact us to book an appointment with our specialist Prof. Dr Giovanni Leonetti.
31 January 2024
