You might need to see a gastro specialist in Singapore if you experience persistent symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, or difficulty swallowing. They also help with screening for colon cancer and managing chronic digestive issues.
Gastro specialists use various diagnostic procedures like endoscopy, colonoscopy (https://andrea-digestive-clinic.com/colonoscopy/), and imaging tests to identify and treat these conditions. Seeing a gastroenterologist ensures proper management and care for your digestive health.
What Happens when you first see a Gastroenterologist?
The first visit to the gastroenterologist can feel a little uneasy. So, you may be itching to ask; what happens when you first see a gastroenterologist?
When you first visit a gastroenterologist, you will have an initial consultation to establish a comprehensive understanding of your gastrointestinal health. Here, the gastroenterologist will begin by reviewing your medical history, including any previous diagnoses, treatments, and surgeries.
They will inquire about your symptoms, their duration, and any recent changes in your condition. This detailed history helps the gastroenterologist assess your current health status and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
During the consultation, the gastroenterologist will also discuss your diet and lifestyle habits. This part is important as these factors can significantly impact digestive health.
So, you can expect to be asked about your typical diet, including any food intolerances or allergies. Also, your gastro specialist in Singapore will review all medications and supplements you are currently taking.
They will be particularly interested in these medications—even the OTC medications as they can all affect your digestive function.
After a thorough medical history review, the gastroenterologist will conduct a physical examination focused on the abdominal area. This examination may involve palpating the abdomen to check for tenderness, swelling, or unusual masses.
The gastro specialist will also listen to your bowel sounds using a stethoscope, which can provide insight into gastrointestinal function.
In some cases, a rectal examination may be performed to assess the rectal area for abnormalities or signs of inflammation. This examination is typically conducted if your symptoms suggest issues in the lower gastrointestinal tract.
Based on the findings from the medical history review and physical examination, the doctor may recommend further diagnostic tests or procedures to evaluate your gastrointestinal health more thoroughly. These tests may include imaging studies, like an ultrasound or CT scan, or endoscopic procedures, like a colonoscopy or upper endoscopy.
What to do Before Going to the Gastroenterologist?
Preparing to go to your gastro specialist in Singapore doesn’t have to be stressful. If you’re wondering what to do, here’s a simple list to guide you;
I. Begin by creating a list of questions
Before your appointment, take some time to think about any questions or concerns you may have about your digestive health. Write these down so you can remember to discuss them with your gastro specialist in Singapore. Some questions you may want to consider include:
- What do you think could be causing the symptoms I am getting?
- Could there be any other possible causes for my condition?
- And, what specific diagnostic tests do you recommend for me?
- For these tests you suggest, are there any special preparation I should know about?
- What are the treatment approaches you recommend for me to try first?
- Are there any side effects that are linked to these treatments?
II. Create and maintain a symptom record
It can be helpful to keep a record of your symptoms leading up to your appointment. In creating a symptoms record, you will want to note when and how often your symptoms occur.
Also, be sure to record any factors that seem to make them better or worse. Include details about your diet, any treatments you’ve tried, and how they’ve affected you. This information can provide valuable insights for your gastro specialist in Singapore.
III. Bring medical information
If you have any relevant medical information, please bring them to your appointment. The medical information you will want to keep here includes your medical history, including your birthday, height, weight, past diagnoses, treatments, surgeries, medications, allergies, and any life events that have affected your health.
You should also bring along any relevant medical records or diagnostic test results for your gastroenterologist to review. Also, if applicable, keep a record of your family history of conditions like colorectal cancer, etc.
IV. Prepare for diagnostic tests
Depending on your initial engagement with a gastro specialist in Singapore, you may be recommended specific tests like gastroscopy, for example. If this is the case, please follow the preparation instructions provided.
For example, you may need to fast for a certain period before the test and adjust your medication schedule accordingly. As a general rule, follow these instructions carefully to ensure that the test results are accurate and reliable.
V. Bring a support person
It may also help to bring with you a friend or family member to your appointment. While this may seem less significant, having a loved one close can provide emotional support.
They can also help you remember important details discussed during the visit. Having a supportive companion can also help alleviate any anxiety or stress you may feel about the appointment. What’s more, if you undergo procedures that involve sedation like gastroscopies, for example, the support person will help you get back home with ease.
VI. Follow fasting guidelines
Depending on your reason for the appointment, you may need to fast before you visit the gastro specialist in Singapore. If your appointment involves fasting before a procedure or test, be sure to adhere to the fasting guidelines provided by your gastroenterologist.
This will not only help ensure that the test results are accurate. It will also ensure that the procedure goes smoothly.
VII. Prepare to Take notes
During your appointment, it can be helpful to take notes on important information, recommendations, and next steps discussed. This can help you remember key details and follow through with the recommended treatment plan.
You can use a notebook or a note-taking app on your phone to jot down these details. Just to ensure that you do not miss important details during your consultation, you may want to carry a notebook to the appointment.
It’s a Wrap!
Preparing for your visit to the gastro specialist in Singapore shouldn’t be stressful. Nevertheless, take your time to get everything right. Please, ask questions if anything is unclear.
The Andrea’s Digestive Clinic is one of the best options if you’re looking for a top gastro specialist who will pay attention to your concerns. To schedule an appointment, call or visit us at;
Andrea’s Digestive Clinic: Colon | Liver | Gallbladder | GERD | Acid Reflux Specialist
101 Irrawaddy Road #21-11/12
Royal Square Medical Centre
Singapore 329565
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