Major Reasons to Visit a Gastroenterologist

Major Reasons to Visit a
Gastroenterologist
A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in treating diseases related to the gastrointestinal tract,
rectum, pancreas, intestines, liver, the esophagus or food pipe, stomach and colon. Often, people
suffering from the problem of indigestion, acidity, stomach ache, are in a quandary whether to visit a
general physician or a Gastroenterologist for treatment.

Symptoms for which you need to look for a gastroenterologist in Dubai:
• Rectal bleeding or blood in stools
• Urgency bowel movements
• Unexplained/frequent diarrhea
• Change in bowel routine
• Pale colored stool
• Dark urine
• Heartburn
• Bloating in abdomen
• Belching
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
Heartburn
Heartburn is a condition which causes pain or burning sensation in the throat and chest. It occurs when
acid in the stomach regurgitates into the esophagus (a tube connecting mouth to the stomach).
Generally, this condition is easily treated with over the counter medication, but if you’re experiencing
this problem quite often, then it could be a sign of GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease).
GERD usually develops when acid from the stomach starts irritating the lining of the esophagus. This
problem is common among people who smoke or are overweight. Also, pregnant women are more likely
to develop this condition. An untreated GERD can lead to some serious problems.
Gallstones
Gallstones are small pellets formed inside the gallbladder. These stone can be as tiny as a grain of sand,
or they can be as large as a golf ball. People suffering from gallstones either have a big stone, or they
have multiple stones of different sizes. In this problem, it is very common to experience sudden bouts of
intense pain on the right side of the abdomen. Pregnant women and obese people are more vulnerable
to the formation of gallstones.

Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a genetic condition which involves the immune system. People with this disorder are
asked to avoid eating gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It can also be found in
certain medicines, vitamins, and supplements. If people with celiac disease eat gluten, their immune
system starts damaging their small intestine. This can lead to pain and diarrhea. Celiac disease is
typically diagnosed through a blood test. A gastroenterologist might also need to examine a sample of
the small intestine to check the amount of damage.
Celiac disease is not the same as gluten sensitivity. Though they share common symptoms, the main
difference is, in gluten sensitivity small intestine is not damaged.
There could be a lot more reasons to visit a gastroenterologist in Dubai than the ones mentioned here.