What is gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is the branch of medical science that deals with the function and diseases related to the esophagus, small intestine, stomach, colon and rectum, gallbladder, pancreas, bile ducts, and liver. This part of medical science involves knowing the normal physiology of the gastrointestinal organs that includes the movement of materials via the stomach and intestine, absorption and digestion of the nutrients, removal of the waste, and functioning of the liver. The Gastroenterologist is specially qualified and trained to treat and manage diseases of the liver and gastrointestinal tract.

What does a gastroenterologist do?

Gastroenterologists primarily diagnose and treat GI conditions. If your primary care physician has noticed an issue involving your GI tract, they will most likely recommend you see a gastroenterologist for a more detailed assessment of the issue. A gastroenterologist is a medical professional specializing in the digestive tract. Gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal diseases, which are a group of disorders characterized by conditions such as bloating and excess gas, constipation, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, nausea and vomiting, jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), and abdominal pain.