Gastroenterology is a branch of medicine that specializes in the digestive system and issues that affect it. This system includes the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.
Each organ has a unique function in digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste. When any part of this system malfunctions, it can lead to discomfort and serious health issues.
Your primary care doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist in Singapore if you have tried routine treatments but they fail to resolve your persistent digestive symptoms. Learn more about the qualifications of gastroenterologists on this page: https://gastrohealth.com.sg/dr-bhavesh-kishor-doshi/.
Common signs that may warrant a visit to a gastroenterologist in Singapore include prolonged abdominal pain, frequent indigestion, unexplained bloating, or changes in bowel habits. The gastroenterologist uses a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests—such as endoscopy and imaging studies—to thoroughly evaluate your digestive health.
These experts not only diagnose conditions though. Thanks to their specialized training, they can also offer guidance on dietary and lifestyle adjustments that help maintain a healthy gut.
On this page, we will discuss the specific instances when your doctor might send you to a gastroenterologist in Singapore. Let’s begin!
Why Would Your Doctor Send You to a Gastroenterologist?
Your primary doctor can address a wide range of health issues that affect you. So, they will most likely only refer you to a gastroenterologist in Singapore if you need specialized assessment or care.
Commonly, patients are referred to gastroenterologists when they experience persistent or severe digestive symptoms that do not respond to standard treatments. For example, if you suffer from ongoing abdominal pain, recurrent heartburn, or significant changes in bowel habits, your doctor might suspect that there is an underlying issue that requires specialist attention.
These symptoms can be subtle at first. However, when they persist, it becomes essential to seek expert assessment.
Sometimes, abnormal laboratory test results or imaging findings indicate inflammation or structural issues within the digestive tract. In such cases, your gastroenterologist in Singapore is best placed to interpret these findings.
They can perform advanced diagnostic procedures like colonoscopies and upper endoscopies to obtain detailed images of your gastrointestinal tract. These tests help identify conditions that might not be visible during a standard physical exam.
What’s more, a referral to a gastroenterologist in Singapore may be made if you have risk factors for specific diseases. For example, if you have a family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease, early consultation with a gastroenterologist can allow for timely intervention.
In addition to diagnosing problems, gastroenterologists also design tailored treatment plans for patients. These can include;
- Medications
- Minimally invasive procedures, or
- Lifestyle modifications
But it doesn’t end there. Gastroenterologists also monitor the progress of chronic conditions to prevent complications.
What Parts of the Body Does a Gastroenterologist Treat?
As earlier mentioned, gastroenterologists treat an extensive range of organs and tissues that form the digestive system. The primary focus is on the gastrointestinal tract, which starts at the mouth and ends at the anus.
The esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine are central to digestion. They greatly influence the breaking down of food and absorption of essential nutrients. Problems in any of these areas can cause symptoms that significantly affect daily life.
Beyond the digestive tube, gastroenterologists also help manage conditions related to several accessory organs. The liver for example, is crucial for detoxification and bile production.
Its disorders—such as hepatitis and fatty liver disease—are common reasons for consultation. The gallbladder, which stores bile, can develop issues like gallstones and inflammation.
These are complex issues that often necessitate specialist care. The pancreas is another vital organ; it not only produces digestive enzymes but also regulates blood sugar through insulin production.
Inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, is one of the serious conditions treated by gastroenterologists as well. These specialists can address problems affecting these various components both individually and as part of a broader digestive disorder.
What Diseases Might You Have if You Were Seeing a Gastroenterologist?
Apart from the primary care providers, people do not see specialists frequently unless they have underlying health conditions that needs close monitoring by specialists. So, it is understandable if you’re curious because your PCP just referred you to a gastroenterologist in Singapore. In such cases, many people frequently ask; what diseases might you have if you were seeing a gastroenterologist?
Now, if you have been referred to a gastroenterologist because of digestive issues, you might be facing a variety of conditions that require specialist attention. Here’s a quick roundup;
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus. This backflow causes chronic heartburn and may lead to more serious complications if left untreated. GERD is often accompanied by symptoms such as regurgitation, chest discomfort, and a sour taste in the mouth.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): This is another group of conditions that may prompt a visit to a specialist. IBD includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both of which cause prolonged inflammation of the digestive tract. Patients with IBD often suffer from severe abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, and significant weight loss. The exact causes of these conditions are complex. Often the causes involve both genetic predisposition and environmental factors.
Other diseases treated by a gastroenterologist include liver disorders like hepatitis, cirrhosis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Conditions which affect the gallbladder like cholecystitis and gallstones, are also within their scope.
Pancreatic issues, particularly pancreatitis, can be life-threatening if not promptly managed. What’s more, colorectal conditions, including polyps and cancer, are a major focus area of these specialists.