Gastroenterology is a specialized field that studies the digestive system, its associated organs, and diseases.
Gastroenterology refers to any symptoms related to the digestive tract, such as issues with the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), liver pancreas gallbladder bile ducts. Conditions and disorders affecting this area can range from simple to severe; thus it’s essential that you visit an experienced physician for evaluation.
Liver Diseases
Your liver is the second-largest organ in your body. Located beneath your ribcage on the right side, about the size of a football, it separates nutrients and waste as they pass through digestion. Additionally, it produces bile–a fluid that aids digestion and flushes out toxins–as part of its function.
Some liver issues can be caused by viruses, genetic conditions (inherited from your parents), or cancer. Liver cancer, the most common type of liver disorder, develops when abnormal cells multiply too rapidly and occupy too much space in your organ.
Most types of liver diseases can be managed or treated through lifestyle changes, such as abstaining from alcohol and cutting back on fat and calories. In severe cases, however, a liver transplant may be necessary; this procedure replaces your existing organ with a healthier one.
Nausea
Nausea (and vomiting) are two common but unpleasant symptoms caused by various factors like food poisoning, motion sickness, or medication side effects.
Nausea is usually an unpleasant but not life-threatening condition that typically resolves on its own after some time. Nonetheless, nausea could indicate more serious medical issues and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
The doctor will ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical exam, looking for any signs of dehydration.
Gastroenterologists can treat nausea and vomiting caused by a variety of medical issues, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel syndrome, cancer of the esophagus or stomach, pancreatitis, liver diseases, and gallbladder disorders. Additionally, they assist with constipation, hemorrhoids, and diarrhea.
Constipation
Constipation occurs when your digestive tract fails to work as it should. Food moves typically from your mouth to the stomach and then through small intestines into your colon, where water absorbs from digested food, creating solid waste products known as stool.
Constipation occurs when food moves too slowly through the colon, giving it extra time to absorb water.
If this occurs, stool can become complex and dry. Furthermore, it takes longer for them to pass from your system.
If your constipation is becoming increasingly frequent and not improving with diet changes alone, your doctor may prescribe laxatives or softeners to help your bowel move more easily.
Your doctor may order tests to identify what’s causing your constipation and possibly altering the flow of waste through your intestines. These may include laboratory tests, imaging studies, and a colorectal exam.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common digestive condition when bowel movements become loose or watery. It may be accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Diarrhea typically lasts only a few days and then resolves on its own, but if it persists for more than that it is important to see a doctor.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and ensure you’re adequately hydrated. They may also perform a stool study or sigmoidoscopy to assess health concerns further.
If the diarrhea is due to an infection, your doctor may suggest antibiotics. These drugs can provide temporary relief and help manage symptoms for several days.
Allergies and lactose intolerance can also cause diarrhea. If either of these problems exist in you, your doctor can suggest a special diet to help alleviate symptoms and restore your energy levels.