Gastroenterologist
Physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of the digestive system or gastrointestinal tract are gastroenterologists. When they specialize to treat children in the same area, they are termed as pediatric gastroenterologist. They treat conditions such hepatitis, colon or rectal cancer, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. A gastroenterologist must complete four years of degree, four years of medical school, three years residency in internal medicines and later specialize in gastroenterology for a period of two to three years. Certification from a recognized board is necessary.
Role of gastroenterologist
Diagnose and offer medical treatment for any kind of disorder in the gastrointestinal tract.
Order for blood tests, x-rays, endoscope checks of the stomach called gastroscopy or for the large intestine called colonoscopy depending on the patient's illness.
Assist a surgeon in exactly locating the area of problem that needs treatment in the gastrointestinal section.
They follow up digestive system disorders that include esophagus, small and large intestine, stomach, pancreas and the liver. They also follow up on symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, ulcers etc following an operation.
Modern techniques and gastroenterologist
Use of ultra high frequency in endosonography gives better understanding of any lesions formed.
Measuring of myoelectric and contractile activity in the gastrointestinal tract, esophageal and anal manometry to understand constipation, nausea, abdominal pain etc better in any patient.
Electrogastrography and few other modern techniques have made it easier to understand the esophageal transit in patients easier.
Schatzki's Ring
Schatzki's Ring or esophagul ring refers to a smooth and narrow ring of tissue in the lower end of the esophagus. It narrows down and blocks the esophagus. This esophagul ring is noticed among nearly 6% of the population. Schatzki's Ring is usually associated with long term damage due to stomach acid reflux. It can also occur due to a congenital defect. Schatzki's Ring is often associated with a hiatal hernia. Some chunks of food may get caught in the ring and lead to dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing large pieces of food). The degree of difficulty in swallowing depends on the extent of narrowing of the esophagus.It also results in chest pain under the sternum. But very often persons suffering from Schatzki's Ring are unaware of it.
A gastroenterologist can help in treating Schatzki's Ring. An EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) or barium swallow aid in diagnosing this condition. Endoscopic examination of the esophagus also helps in diagnosing Schatzki's Ring. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating soft food can help tackle this. Surgical dilation of esophagul ring with a mercury -filled dilator (bougie) can offer relief. Dilators are passed into the mucosal ring to ease the symptoms. The lower esophagul ring tissue can be surgically removed too.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Irritable Bowel disease is a condition that affects nearly 20% of the adult American population. While most of the time, the causes for Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are mild, in rare cases, it may be indicative of ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. It is noticed that women are more prone to develop IBS than men, leading to the belief that hormonal changes may have a bearing on the condition. IBS involves a functional disorder of the large intestine. It usually has no structural or biochemical causes.
Typical symptoms that affect persons suffering from irritable bowel syndrome are gas (flatulence), bloating and mucus/blood in stool. Constipation or diarrhea is also noticed. The patient suffers from cramps. Other symptoms can range from fever and nausea to weight loss and vomiting of bile. In most cases of irritable bowel syndrome, the symptoms are mild. But in chronic cases of IBS, the symptoms are persistent and can affect the quality of the life of the patient. It is noticed that stress, medications, certain foods or stimuli may trigger the IBS symptoms. Some persons notice worsening of symptoms on consumption of milk, alcohol, chocolates or dairy products. Gastroenteritis can trigger an attack of irritable bowel syndrome.
A gastroenterologist can help you diagnose and treat this condition with dietary changes and medication.
Stool studies, functional assesment of the GI tract and colonoscopy can aid in screening for IBS. Colonoscopy involves examination of the coloon with a small flexible tube. This helps to rule out ulcerative coliits or colorectal cancer. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as sulfasalazine and antibiotics such as metronidazole can attack the germs in the intestine. Anti-diarrheal medication, laxatives or painkillers can provide relief from symptoms of irritable bowel disease. Dietary changes that are likely to be prescribed include eating at regular times, drinking plenty of water, restricting fatty foods and reducing dairy products. Moderate exercise is also helpful. Gradual increase in fiber content in the diet provides relief for many. Fiber supplements are sometimes prescribed. Ulcerative colitis or Chrohn's disease must be treated differently.
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