Gastroenterologist
Gastroenterologist(GAS-troh-EN-teh-RAH-loh-jist) is a doctor who has special training in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system or gastroenterology
Overview[edit | edit source]
Gastroenterologists are experts in managing diseases and disorders of the digestive system. They treat conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, hepatitis, and cancers of the digestive system.
Roles and Responsibilities[edit | edit source]
- Diagnosing GI Disorders: Using diagnostic tools like endoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging studies to identify digestive diseases.
- Treatment Plans: Developing and managing treatment plans, including medication, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgery.
- Performing Endoscopic Procedures: Conducting procedures like endoscopy, colonoscopy, and ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
- Managing Liver Disease: Treating various forms of liver disease, including hepatitis and cirrhosis.
- Research and Education: Engaging in research to understand digestive diseases better and educating patients on managing their conditions.
Education and Training[edit | edit source]
- Undergraduate Degree: A bachelor’s degree, typically in a science-related field.
- Medical School: Completion of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree.
- Residency: A residency in internal medicine.
- Fellowship in Gastroenterology: Additional specialized training in gastroenterology.
Subspecialties[edit | edit source]
Gastroenterologists may further specialize in areas such as:
- Hepatology: Focusing on diseases of the liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, and pancreas.
- Interventional Gastroenterology: Specializing in advanced endoscopic procedures.
- Pediatric Gastroenterology: Treating digestive system diseases in children.
Practice Settings[edit | edit source]
Gastroenterologists work in settings including:
- Hospitals
- Private practices
- Outpatient clinics
Professional Organizations[edit | edit source]
Organizations such as the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) and the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) provide resources, research opportunities, and continuing education for gastroenterologists.
Find a gastroentroenterologist (world)[edit | edit source]
Need help finding a Gastroenterologist in the United States?
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
Gastroenterologists are essential in diagnosing and treating a wide range of complex digestive diseases. Their specialized knowledge and skills are crucial in improving the digestive health of their patients.
| Gastroenterologist Resources | |
|---|---|
|
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| Health science - Medicine - Gastroenterology - edit |
|---|
| Diseases of the esophagus - stomach |
| Halitosis | Nausea | Vomiting | GERD | Achalasia | Esophageal cancer | Esophageal varices | Peptic ulcer | Abdominal pain | Stomach cancer | Functional dyspepsia | Gastroparesis |
| Diseases of the liver - pancreas - gallbladder - biliary tree |
| Hepatitis | Cirrhosis | NASH | PBC | PSC | Budd-Chiari | Hepatocellular carcinoma | Acute pancreatitis | Chronic pancreatitis | Pancreatic cancer | Gallstones | Cholecystitis |
| Diseases of the small intestine |
| Peptic ulcer | Intussusception | Malabsorption (e.g. Coeliac, lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorption, Whipple's) | Lymphoma |
| Diseases of the colon |
| Diarrhea | Appendicitis | Diverticulitis | Diverticulosis | IBD (Crohn's, Ulcerative colitis) | IBS | Constipation | Colorectal cancer | Hirschsprung's | Pseudomembranous colitis |
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
