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Dr. Helena Taylor Clinic

Gastroenterology Treatment for your Gut Health

Your gut health is the cornerstone of your overall well-being, and gastroenterology care is dedicated to ensuring its optimal function.

From diagnosing and treating digestive disorders to promoting preventive measures, our gastroenterologist specialises in the intricate workings of the digestive system.

Gastroenterology Treatment for your Gut Health

Navigating the Digestive System: Promoting Gastrointestinal Health

Our gastroenterology team focuses on diagnosing and treating problems with the digestive system, encompassing the entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract — this includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.

We recognise that gastrointestinal health is a complex interplay of various organs and systems. By thoroughly examining each patient’s medical history, symptoms, and test results, we create customised treatment plans tailored to their individual needs. Whether it’s addressing common problems like heartburn, digestive issues, helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), or constipation, or tackling more complex conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), pancreatitis, liver cirrhosis, or gastrointestinal cancer, our dedicated team is committed to providing personalised care focused on patient well-being and promoting digestive wellness.

When should you consult with a gastroenterologist?

If you are experiencing persistent or severe symptoms related to your digestive system, we strongly recommend for you to consult with a gastroenterologist to get your digestive tract checked. Some common signs and symptoms may include:

Additionally, if you have a family history of gastrointestinal disorders such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or hereditary gastrointestinal polyposis syndromes, it is highly advisable to go for preventive screening and risk assessment to help detect potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention and improved outcomes.

What common disorders do gastroenterologists treat?

Gastroenterologists are medical specialists who diagnose and treat a wide range of disorders affecting the digestive system. Some common disorders that gastroenterologists treat include:

A chronic condition characterised by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.

A type of bacteria that infects the stomach lining and can cause various gastrointestinal problems, such as gastritis and peptic ulcers.

Chronic inflammatory conditions of the digestive tract, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and weight loss.

A functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel habits without evidence of underlying structural abnormalities.

Conditions such as gallstones, cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), and bile duct obstruction, which can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice.

Acute or chronic inflammation of the stomach lining, due to factors like excessive alcohol consumption, autoimmune diseases, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or bacterial infections.

Conditions affecting the pancreas, such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), pancreatic cysts, and pancreatic cancer.

Evaluation and management of acute or chronic gastrointestinal bleeding, which can arise from various sources such as peptic ulcers, esophageal varices, diverticulosis, or colorectal cancer.

As gastroenterology is a diverse field that encompasses the evaluation and management of a wide range of digestive system conditions, gastroenterologists generally work closely with primary care physicians, surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, dietitians, and other specialists to provide holistic care for their patients.

Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology Treatment and Procedures

From routine screenings to complex interventions, gastroenterologists diagnose and treat a spectrum of digestive disorders, ensuring that patients receive tailored treatment plans to address their unique needs. Our gastroenterologist specialises in:

Gastroscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD)

This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to visually inspect these structures. Gastroscopy is used to diagnose conditions such as ulcers, inflammation, bleeding, tumors, or reflux disease. It allows the gastroenterologist to take biopsies or perform therapeutic interventions such as dilation or stent placement.

Colonoscopy

A procedure used to examine the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, inflammation, or bleeding. During colonoscopy, the gastroenterologist uses a flexible tube with a camera to visualize the colon and may remove polyps or take biopsies for further evaluation. Colonoscopy is a vital screening tool for colorectal cancer and can also diagnose conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

ERCP is a specialized endoscopic procedure used to diagnose and treat disorders of the bile ducts and pancreas. It involves inserting an endoscope into the duodenum to access the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. ERCP can be used to remove gallstones, place stents to relieve obstructions, or take biopsies.

Gastrointestinal Dilation

Gastrointestinal dilation is performed to widen narrowed areas (strictures) in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. It can help improve swallowing function or relieve obstructions caused by conditions such as strictures, tumors, or scarring. Dilation is often performed using balloons or dilators inserted during endoscopic procedures.

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