Gastroenterologist – Why Consulting a Specialist Matters
A Gastroenterologist specializes in the digestive system, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. They manage conditions such as GERD (acid reflux), peptic ulcer disease, IBS, IBD (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver, gallstones, pancreatitis, and colorectal cancer. They perform endoscopic procedures including gastroscopy, colonoscopy, ERCP, and EUS.
Conditions Treated
GERD (Acid Reflux)
Peptic Ulcer Disease
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
IBD — Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis
Liver Cirrhosis
Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Hepatitis B & C
Gallstones
Pancreatitis
Colorectal Cancer
Celiac Disease
Symptoms That Require a Gastroenterologist
Persistent heartburn or acidity
Abdominal pain or cramps
Nausea and vomiting
Bloating
Diarrhea or constipation
Blood in stool
Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)
Unexplained weight loss
Procedures & Treatments
Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy)
Colonoscopy
ERCP (for bile duct/pancreas)
Liver Biopsy
H. pylori Testing
Capsule Endoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Abdominal Ultrasound
When Should You See a Gastroenterologist?
- Heartburn occurring more than twice a week
- Blood in stool or black tarry stools
- Jaundice (yellow eyes/skin)
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Colon cancer screening (age 45+)
- Significant weight loss without reason
Qualifications to Look For
MBBS
MD (Medicine)
DM (Gastroenterology)
DNB (Gastroenterology)
Fellowship in Hepatology / Advanced Endoscopy