What Diseases Does a Gastroenterologist Treat? A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction

Gastroenterologists are medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive system. The digestive system includes the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, gallbladder, liver, and pancreas. Common digestive problems that a gastroenterologist may treat include constipation, diarrhea, acid reflux, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In addition, gastroenterologists also treat more serious diseases such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, pancreatitis, and celiac disease. In this article, we will discuss the different diseases that gastroenterologists treat.

Gastrointestinal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastrointestinal Reflux Disease (GERD) is one of the most common conditions treated by gastroenterologists. GERD is a digestive disorder in which stomach acid or bile flows back into the esophagus and causes irritation. Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, chest pain, feeling full after eating, and difficulty swallowing. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a group of chronic, inflammatory diseases of the digestive system. The two most common types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms of IBD may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. Treatment for IBD may include medications, nutrition therapy, or surgery.

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a serious condition in which the liver is damaged and scarred, leading to its inability to function properly. Cirrhosis can be caused by long-term alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis, or other liver diseases. Symptoms of cirrhosis may include jaundice, weight loss, confusion, and abdominal pain. Treatment for cirrhosis may include medications, nutrition therapy, or liver transplant.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body cannot properly digest gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Common symptoms of celiac disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. Treatment for celiac disease may include a gluten-free diet, vitamin and mineral supplements, or medications.

Gallstones

Gallstones are hard deposits of bile that form in the gallbladder. Gallstones can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball. Common symptoms of gallstones may include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment for gallstones may include medications, ultrasound treatment, or surgery.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. Pancreatitis can be caused by alcohol abuse, gallstones, or certain medications. Symptoms of pancreatitis may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Treatment for pancreatitis may include medications, nutrition therapy, or surgery.

Conclusion

Gastroenterologists are medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive system. Common diseases they treat include GERD, IBD, cirrhosis, celiac disease, gallstones, and pancreatitis. Treatment for these diseases may include lifestyle changes, medications, nutrition therapy, surgery, or a combination of these treatments. References: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2020). What Is Gastroenterology? Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gastroenterology Mayo Clinic. (2020). Diseases and Conditions. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions

Additional References: https://www.regionalonehealth.org/gastroenterology-and-endoscopy-outpatient-procedures/