In our digestive pathology consultation clinic, we carry out a thorough evaluation of digestive symptoms and problems by a doctor specialized in gastroenterology and hepatology.
Detailed information is collected about the patient's digestive symptoms, such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, rectal bleeding, among others. We will investigate medical history, family history of digestive diseases, diet, lifestyle, and any other relevant factors.
The doctor performs a complete physical examination, focusing on the abdomen and other areas related to the digestive system. He may palpate the abdomen to look for tenderness, swelling, or other abnormalities.
Depending on the symptoms and suspected disease, the doctor may order a variety of diagnostic tests, which may include blood tests, stool analysis, imaging tests such as ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans or MRIs. (MRI), endoscopies (such as gastroscopy or colonoscopy) and other specialized tests.
Once all the information is gathered and the necessary tests have been completed, the doctor establishes a diagnosis and develops an individualized treatment plan to address the patient's digestive problems. This may include diet and lifestyle changes, medications, endoscopic or surgical procedures, rehabilitation therapy, among others.
The doctor can schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the response to treatment, make adjustments if necessary, and provide ongoing support to the patient.
It is important to keep in mind that the process may vary depending on the specific needs and circumstances of each patient. It is always advisable to consult a doctor specialized in gastroenterology or digestive diseases to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Most prevalent pathologies in the Digestive consultation:
In a Gastroenterology and Hepatology consultation, a variety of digestive pathologies can be found, some of which are more prevalent than others. Here are some of the most common pathologies that can be evaluated and treated in this type of consultation:
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD): Condition in which acidic stomach contents are regurgitated into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, acid regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing.
Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, which may be caused by bacterial infections (Helicobacter pylori), overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or other causes. Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite may occur.
Peptic ulcer: Injury to the lining of the stomach or duodenum, usually caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or the use of NSAIDs. Abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal bleeding may occur.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A functional gastrointestinal disorder that causes abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both), and other symptoms such as bloating and flatulence.
Bile reflux disease: Backflow of bile into the stomach, which can cause symptoms similar to GERD, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. Common in patients undergoing gallbladder surgery
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, chronic relapsing disorders that cause inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract. They can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. Sometimes they are associated with extradigestive manifestations such as arthritis, ocular, skin, or vascular pathology.
Celiac disease: An autoimmune disorder in which ingesting gluten causes damage to the lining of the small intestine, making it difficult to absorb nutrients. It may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating, as well as other non-gastrointestinal symptoms.
Gastrointestinal cancer: Includes cancer of the esophagus, stomach, colon, rectum and other organs of the digestive tract. It can cause a variety of symptoms, which may include changes in bowel habits, gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
Acute or chronic pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreatic gland that can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea and steatorrhea, malnutrition and diabetes, and may require therapeutic endoscopies (C.P.R.E. and ultrasound endoscopy) or surgical treatment.
In the Digestive practice, specialists also deal with a variety of liver and biliary disorders (hepatology). Some of the most prevalent pathologies found in this type of consultation include:
These are just some of the most prevalent pathologies found in a hepatology consultation. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms related to the liver or gallbladder, such as abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes), unexplained fatigue, changes in bowel habits, or other concerning symptoms. A hepatology specialist can perform a complete evaluation and recommend the appropriate treatment based on your individual needs.
