Medical gastroenterology focuses on diagnosing and managing disorders of the oesophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder and pancreas. A specialist consultation may include a review of symptoms, medical history, laboratory tests and imaging to identify the cause of digestive problems and determine an appropriate treatment plan.
GERD occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the oesophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. Management may involve lifestyle modifications, medication and further investigations when symptoms persist. Difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss or gastrointestinal bleeding warrants prompt medical evaluation.
Peptic ulcers are sores affecting the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine. They may be associated with Helicobacter pylori infection or certain medicines. Assessment helps establish the underlying cause and guide treatment. Endoscopy may be recommended when clinically indicated to investigate persistent symptoms or suspected complications.
Inflammatory bowel disease includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhoea and rectal bleeding. Management depends on disease activity and severity and may involve medication, nutritional guidance, monitoring and coordinated specialist care.
Liver cirrhosis involves significant scarring of the liver and can develop following chronic liver disease. Assessment focuses on the underlying cause, liver function and possible complications such as portal hypertension or ascites. Management may include treating the cause, monitoring liver health and managing complications through specialist care.
Fatty liver disease involves excess fat accumulation in the liver and may be associated with metabolic risk factors. Assessment can include liver blood tests, imaging and evaluation of associated health conditions. Management may involve individualised lifestyle changes, metabolic risk reduction and monitoring based on the degree of liver involvement.
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and may occur as an acute episode or a chronic condition. Symptoms can include upper abdominal pain, nausea and digestive difficulties. Diagnosis and treatment depend on the cause and severity. Severe or sudden abdominal pain requires prompt medical assessment.
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy uses a flexible camera to examine the oesophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine. It may help investigate persistent upper abdominal symptoms, swallowing difficulties, suspected ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. Biopsies and selected therapeutic procedures may be performed when clinically appropriate.
Colonoscopy allows a specialist to examine the lining of the large intestine and investigate selected bowel symptoms. It may help identify inflammation, sources of bleeding and colorectal polyps. Polypectomy involves removing suitable polyps during the procedure for further assessment and to reduce the risk associated with certain precancerous growths.
Endoscopic band ligation involves placing small bands around selected abnormal blood vessels, commonly to manage bleeding oesophageal varices associated with portal hypertension. The procedure is performed when clinically indicated and requires appropriate assessment and follow-up. Patients with suspected active gastrointestinal bleeding need urgent medical care.
Gastrointestinal bleeding can originate in the upper or lower digestive tract and may cause visible blood loss, black stools, weakness or anaemia. Evaluation depends on the severity and suspected source. Endoscopy may be used to identify and treat selected causes. Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools requires urgent medical assessment.
Chronic diarrhoea may result from inflammatory bowel disease, infections, medication effects, malabsorption or other digestive conditions. Assessment considers symptom duration, hydration, dietary history and associated warning signs. Depending on the findings, investigations may include blood or stool tests, imaging or endoscopic examination to guide appropriate treatment.