Gastroenterology
Diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases of the digestive system. Diseases within this group fall under the expertise of a gastroenterologist
Symptoms and main conditions
The most common symptoms of gastroenterological diseases (digestive tract diseases) include acute abdominal pain, recurrent dull pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain after meals or on an empty stomach, persistent bitter taste in the mouth, yellowing of the sclera, and so on. If any initial signs of discomfort appear, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
The main diseases in gastroenterology include gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), duodenitis (inflammation of the duodenum), cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), colitis (inflammation of the large intestine), gastric and duodenal ulcers, hepatitis, tumors, and more
What does a gastroenterologist do:
- Consults and conducts a detailed examination of the patient
- Prescribes laboratory tests
- If necessary, orders specialised diagnostic procedures, including endoscopic examinations, CT scans, ultrasounds, and others
- Interprets the results of these tests and procedures
- Diagnoses the disease and prescribes and conducts treatment
- Provides recommendations for the prevention of gastrointestinal diseases and, if necessary, advises on dietary changes