Who is a gastroenterologist? Why should you consult one?

A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in caring for the digestive system. Normally, digestive troubles are solved by a general physician, but when the condition is too severe, a gastroenterologist is referred to as a consultant.

It is hard to differentiate between the innocent symptoms and the more serious ones when it comes to problems of the digestive tract. However, most commonly, patients visit these doctors when they experience nagging symptoms like bloating, gas and diarrhoea. So, if you experience one or all of the conditions listed below, you can book an appointment with your nearest gastroenterologist in Dubai.

Here are some of the symptoms you need to look out for before consulting a gastroenterologist:

• Heartburn

Heartburn is the burning sensation you experience in the chest or throat. It usually occurs due to acidity and goes away once you use some regular remedies. But, if this continues to occur without reason, or happens more than twice a week, then it might be the sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

GERD is a common affliction among people who smoke or are obese. It occurs when the acid from the stomach irritates the lining of the food pipe. While it can be revoked with medicine, severe cases may require surgery.

• Gallstones

Gallstones are formed due to the imbalance of digestive fluids in the system. There is no definite reason as to why these stones are formed in the gallbladder, but they need to be removed as soon as possible. Since gallstones have the tendency to come back even after removal, many people have to get their gallbladder removed through surgery.

In certain cases where the stones have not grown to a large degree, medication can be used to dissolve the stones completely.

• Lactose Intolerance

If you have experienced belly pain, diarrhoea, and gas upon ingestion of milk or milk-based products, chances are that you are lactose intolerant. This means that your body does not produce enough lactase to digest lactose, which is the sugar contained in milk. Gastroenterologists can check you for lactose intolerance and provide supplements so that you can change your diet.

• Celiac Disease

Celiac Disease is a genetic condition that prevents people from eating gluten. When people with Celiac Disease eat gluten, their immune system damages their small intestine. A gastroenterologist can help identify the symptoms related to Celiac disease and formulate a diet that will help you avoid gluten.