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About Gastroenterology

What Is Gastroenterology? 

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on the function and diseases affecting the digestive system, also known as the gastrointestinal tract. It also involves a detailed understanding of the following: 

  • Gastrointestinal organs 
  • Movement of material through the stomach and intestines 
  • Digestion and absorption of nutrients 
  • Removal of waste from the body 
  • Liver 

What Does a Gastroenterologist Treat? 

The digestive system comprises the gastrointestinal tract (GI), a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube that runs from the mouth to the anus. Other gastrointestinal organs include: 

  • Esophagus 
  • Stomach 
  • Small intestine 
  • Colon 
  • Bile ducts 
  • Liver 
  • Gallbladder 
  • Pancreas 

The digestive organs produce juices to aid digestion, a process that breaks down food into nutrients your body uses for energy, growth and cell repair. 

Gastroenterologists are medical professionals who diagnose and treat gastrointestinal (GI) conditions. They perform endoscopic procedures and typically work closely with other subspecialties to provide comprehensive care for patients. During an endoscopy, gastroenterologists use narrow, flexible tubes with built-in video cameras to view the intestinal tract and administer sedating medications to ensure patient comfort and safety. 
 
Their training enables gastroenterologists to accurately interpret the findings and biopsy results of advanced procedures, including endoscopic biliary examinations, tumor removal without surgery, placement of internal drainage tubes or stents, and endoscopic ultrasound. 

A gastroenterologist may work with: 

  • Surgeons who treat conditions that require an operation 
  • Hepatologists who specialize in the liver 
  • Radiologists who specialize in imaging 
  • Oncologists who specialize in cancer 

Common Digestive Disorders

A disease in which cells grow slowly out of control in the rectum and colon (large intestine). A colonoscopy is a screening test to find polyps before they become cancerous. Treatments for colorectal cancer work best when caught at an early stage.

Is a severe and long-lasting disease that occurs when the stomach contents come back into the esophagus. GERD causes repeated symptoms or leads to complications over time.

Symptoms include repeated pain in the abdomen and changes in bowel movements. IBS is a group of symptoms that occur together, which may cause other digestive conditions, such as diarrhea, constipation or both, without any visible signs of damage or disease in the digestive tract.

Inflammation of the liver often caused by a virus, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications and certain medical conditions can also cause hepatitis.

An acute or chronic inflammation of the pancreas that occurs when digestive enzymes start digesting the pancreas itself. Gallstones often cause pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis worsens over time and leads to permanent damage.

Abnormal growths in the colon or rectum that may turn into cancer over time.

A chronic digestive and immune disorder triggered by eating foods containing gluten. Celiac disease damages the small intestine that can cause lifelong digestive problems that keep your body from getting all the nutrients it needs.

Occurs when gallstones form in the bile ducts that prevent the bile from flowing. The gallbladder stores bile, a fluid that helps digest fat during digestion. Gallbladder problems are highly treatable.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Disorder? 

Symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders vary from one person to another, depending on the condition. Generally, you should see a primary care doctor if you have the following symptoms: 

  • Blood in your stool 
  • Changes in bowel habits 
  • Severe abdominal pain 
  • Unintentional weight loss 
  • Heartburn not relieved by antacids 
  • Difficulty swallowing 
  • Constant constipation or diarrhea 
  • Persistent acid reflux or heartburn 

Help for Better Gut Health 

A healthy gut is essential to your overall health and well-being. Making healthy choices can help your gut stay on track for life. Here are some tips to ease your digestion and help keep severe conditions, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and IBS, at bay: 

  • Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol intake. 
  • Avoid processed food and red meat, which increase your risk for colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. 
  • Chew your food slowly. Less air while swallowing can help you feel fuller. 
  • Eat in moderation to avoid GERD and encourage proper digestion. 
  • Limit your food intake after dark. Digestion works best in the daytime. 
  • Reduce stress through relaxation, breathing, mindfulness and exercise. 
  • Create a schedule for your digestive tract and eat around the exact times each day. 
  • Consider taking probiotics to help ease constipation and IBS symptoms. 

Find a Gastroenterologist in Modesto or Turlock 

If you're experiencing pain or discomfort related to a gastrointestinal condition, have been recently diagnosed, or know someone who has, our experienced gastroenterologists at Central Valley Doctors Health System in Modesto and Turlock can help. Our goal is to help you better understand your gut health. Our dedicated team of experienced gastroenterologists performs gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy. 

Schedule a consultation today  or booking an appointment online.

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