What a gastroenterologist does
A gastroenterologist is a doctor who treats diseases of the digestive system: the food pipe, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder and pancreas. After MBBS and an MD or DNB in medicine, training continues with a DM or DNB in Gastroenterology. Some also perform advanced endoscopic procedures. A hepatologist is a gastroenterologist who focuses on liver disease.
Digestive complaints are extremely common in India, driven by irregular meals, spicy and oily food, stress, infection and rising rates of fatty liver and diabetes. Many symptoms are harmless, but some signal conditions that need early treatment.
Symptoms that need evaluation
- Persistent acidity, heartburn, bloating or upper abdominal pain.
- Difficulty or pain on swallowing, or repeated vomiting.
- Constipation, diarrhoea or a change in bowel habit lasting more than three weeks.
- Black stools, blood in stool or vomiting blood — needs urgent assessment.
- Yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, abdominal swelling or itching.
- Unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite or anaemia.
- Abnormal liver tests or fatty liver on ultrasound.
Common conditions treated
GERD and acid reflux, gastritis and peptic ulcer (often linked to H. pylori infection), irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), coeliac disease, gallstones, pancreatitis, piles and fissures (with a colorectal surgeon), hepatitis A, B, C and E, fatty liver, cirrhosis and gastrointestinal cancers.
Tests and procedures
Common tests include liver function tests, H. pylori stool antigen, stool routine, CBC, hepatitis B and C tests and an abdominal ultrasound. Your doctor may advise an upper GI endoscopy or colonoscopy, which use a flexible camera to look inside and take biopsies. Colorectal cancer screening by stool test or colonoscopy is advised from about 45–50, earlier with a family history.
Cost
Gastroenterologist consultation fees commonly range from roughly ₹600 to ₹1,800 and may vary. Endoscopy and colonoscopy costs vary by hospital, sedation and city; ask for an estimate.
Choosing a specialist
Verify DM/DNB Gastroenterology qualification, look for experience in the procedure you need, and prefer centres with sterile endoscopy reprocessing and emergency back-up. Online consultation suits follow-up of reflux, IBS and liver reports.
Gut and liver health tips
Eat regular, home-cooked meals, increase fibre and water, limit fried food, sugar and alcohol, avoid frequent painkillers on an empty stomach, stay active, and get hepatitis B vaccination. Compare gastroenterologists and book on Lab Dekho.
Trusted References
This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.