Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing disorders affecting the digestive system.
The digestive tract, often referred to as the GI tract, is a long tube that extends from the mouth to the anus. It includes various organs:
Gastroenterology focuses on diagnosing and treating GI conditions. Gastroenterologists understand and care for the GI tract from the esophagus to the rectum.
Doctors who focus on gastroenterology, known as gastroenterologists, help individuals identify a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions that can significantly impact their quality of life. Some of the conditions managed by gastroenterologists include:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It is a chronic condition that can be managed through dietary and lifestyle changes.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – GERD is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, leading to symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation. Long-term GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – IBD refers to chronic inflammatory conditions that affect the digestive tract. The two primary forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and inflammation of the GI tract.
Gallstones and Gallbladder Diseases – These conditions can cause discomfort and affect how your body stores and uses bile, a substance crucial for digestion. Gallstones are hard particles that form in the gallbladder, potentially leading to pain and digestive issues.
Celiac Disease – Celiac disease is more than just a food intolerance. It’s an autoimmune reaction triggered by consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with celiac disease eat gluten, their immune system responds by damaging the lining of the small intestine, which can lead to various digestive problems and malnutrition.
Nutritional Deficiencies – If you are lacking essential nutrients, a gastroenterologist will create a custom plan to fix it. They can suggest diet changes and recommend supplements to help you get back on track.
The procedures performed in gastroenterology are necessary to diagnose and treat a variety of digestive conditions. These include:
Gastroenterologists also play a critical role in promoting digestive health. They can offer:
Understanding what gastroenterology is and the importance of GI health can help you take proactive steps to address digestive issues, seek appropriate medical care, and engage in disease prevention strategies.
If you have concerns about your digestive health or are experiencing symptoms related to the GI tract, don’t wait to meet with an expert gastroenterologist – schedule an appointment today!
If you have not registered with the new gPortal yet please select the Register/Learn More button for instructions on registering.
Please note that your current /old patient portal credentials will become inactive after August 31, 2022, so update your account today to avoid any disruption in accessibility.
