Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive system and the organs that make up this system. The esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, pancreas, bile ducts, gallbladder, and rectum fall under the scope of gastroenterology. This branch thoroughly examines the physiological processes of digestion, absorption, bowel movements, and the elimination of waste from the body. All diseases affecting the normal functions of digestive organs and those that disrupt these functions are within the field of gastroenterology.

What Diseases Does Gastroenterology Address?

The gastroenterology department diagnoses and treats diseases related to the stomach, intestines, esophagus, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Many disorders, such as reflux, gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers, intestinal diseases, hepatitis, gallstone disease, and pancreatitis, are evaluated under this specialty.

Patients with complaints such as abdominal pain, bloating, heartburn, diarrhea, and constipation related to the digestive system are advised to consult a gastroenterology specialist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

The main diseases treated in gastroenterology include:

• Stomach and duodenal ulcers

• Gallbladder and bile duct diseases

• Colon (large intestine) cancer

• Colon polyps

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Types of colitis

• Pancreatitis

• Hemorrhoids

• Hepatitis

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

• Gastritis

• Gilbert’s syndrome

Symptoms of Gastroenterological Diseases

The symptoms of gastroenterological diseases can vary depending on the affected organ and the type of disease. The most common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and unintended weight loss. If symptoms persist or worsen over time, it is crucial to consult a gastroenterology specialist to identify any underlying serious conditions early.

The following symptoms may require a gastroenterological examination:

• Difficulty swallowing

• Unexplained sudden weight loss

• Blood in stool or vomit

• Rectal bleeding

• Sudden severe abdominal pain

• Changes in bowel habits lasting more than three weeks

• Dizziness or fainting accompanied by black or bloody stool

Gastroenterology specialists evaluate unusual symptoms to help identify more serious conditions at an early stage. Early diagnosis helps start treatment on time and prevents potential long-term health issues.

How Are Gastroenterological Diseases Diagnosed?

A combination of methods is used to diagnose diseases affecting the digestive system organs. The patient’s history, physical examination findings, laboratory tests, and imaging methods are assessed together. Since early diagnosis is crucial in digestive system complaints, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterology specialist without delay.

Common diagnostic methods used in gastroenterology include:

• Endoscopy

• Enteroscopy

• Colonoscopy

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

• Esophageal manometry

• Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)

• Sigmoidoscopy

Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a procedure that allows visualization of the inner surface of the digestive system using a flexible device with a camera and light source. It is frequently used to determine the cause of complaints such as stomach pain, reflux, nausea, and vomiting. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is one of the most commonly performed endoscopic methods in gastroenterology.

Enteroscopy

Enteroscopy is a special endoscopic method used to examine the small intestine in detail. It is particularly preferred for investigating unexplained intestinal bleeding and identifying the causes of malabsorption. Classic enteroscopy, double-balloon enteroscopy, or capsule endoscopy may be used.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy allows evaluation of the inner surface of the large intestine and rectum. A biopsy may be taken if necessary during the procedure. It is an important diagnostic method for detecting colon polyps, colorectal cancer screening, Crohn’s disease, fistulas, and fissures.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

ERCP is a special endoscopic procedure used to examine the bile ducts and pancreatic channels and treat some related diseases. It is used to assess conditions such as bile duct obstructions, gallstones, and acute pancreatitis.

Esophageal Manometry

This test measures the functioning of the esophageal muscles and the lower esophageal sphincter. It is used in patients with complaints such as difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and heartburn.

Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)

PEG is a procedure that involves placing a feeding tube directly into the stomach for patients who are unable to feed orally. It is typically applied to individuals with conditions such as paralysis, advanced cancer, or neurological diseases.

Sigmoidoscopy

Sigmoidoscopy is an endoscopic method used to examine the rectum and the lower part of the large intestine. It is used to assess conditions such as rectal bleeding, polyps, and colorectal cancer.