Who is a gastroenterologist and what does he do?

When should you visit a specialist?

Clinic https://junona-nsk.ru/services/gastrojenterolog/ recommends visiting a gastroenterologist if:

• Pain or discomfort in the abdominal area.
• Belching or heartburn after eating.
• Stool disorders: constipation, diarrhea.
• Bloating, gas formation.
• Nausea, vomiting.
• Decreased appetite, weight loss.
• Blood in the stool, black stool.
• Fatigue, weakness.
• Increased sensitivity to food.
• Changes in the smell, color of urine, feces.

The most common gastrointestinal diseases

There are many diseases, but the most common are:

• Gastritis is inflammation of the gastric mucosa.
• Peptic ulcer is the formation of ulcers on the mucous membrane of the stomach or duodenum.
• Colitis is inflammation of the colon.
• Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas.
• Gallstone disease is the formation of stones in the gall bladder.
• Reflux esophagitis is damage to the esophagus from stomach acid.

Most diseases are treated with medication. Antacids, antienzyme, antireflux, and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. In case of advanced disease or, for example, in the presence of large gallstones, surgical intervention is necessary.

How is the inspection carried out?

You can come to an appointment with a gastroenterologist without prior preparation. The doctor conducts an examination, evaluates the symptoms and palpates the abdomen. To clarify the diagnosis, various studies may be required: ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, FGDS, colonoscopy, as well as blood and stool tests.

If you feel pain, heaviness in your stomach, nausea, weakness, do not be afraid to contact a gastroenterologist. Most diseases are treated with medication. The sooner they are detected, the faster they will be treated.