Gastroenterologists are highly trained medical professionals who have in-depth knowledge and expertise on the entire digestive system. They work to identify, diagnose, treat, and prevent any diseases or disorders related to the organs of the digestive system, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine, pancreas, gallbladder, and liver. For example, gastroenterologists may specialize in treating conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and more. They may also treat conditions such as acid reflux, liver diseases, gallbladder conditions, pancreatic issues, and other gastrointestinal problems.

To be a gastroenterologist in India, an individual has to:

• Obtain a medical degree (MBBS).

• Complete a postgraduate medical degree (MD in internal medicine).

• Get a super speciality degree in Gastroenterology (DM in gastroenterology).

If you do not suffer from any digestive disorder, you may visit a gastroenterologist once a year for a general check-up. This can help identify any potential problems, as well as provide useful information about how to maintain and improve your digestive health. For people who suffer from digestive disorders, visiting a gastroenterologist regularly is important in order to keep the condition under control. The intervals between visits will depend on the severity of the condition and your doctor’s recommendation.

No, gastroenterologists and proctologists are not the same. Gastroenterologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions and diseases of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, along with accessory organs such as pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. Proctologists, also called colorectal surgeons (or colon and rectal surgeons), are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions and diseases of the anus, rectum, and colon. Proctologists treat conditions such as hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, and anal fissures.

You can book a direct appointment with a gastroenterologist to discuss your symptoms and any concerns you may have about your health.

To book an appointment online, use Phable, a doctor appointment booking platform. Some gastroenterologists may also offer same-day appointments for urgent issues, so it is easy to be proactive about your health.

Yes, you can get an online or video consultation appointment with a gastroenterologist. Many gastroenterologists offer virtual consultations for patients who cannot visit their offices in person.

Virtual appointments are just as effective as in-person visits and allow the doctor to answer all of your questions and provide treatment recommendations without requiring you to leave your home.

For more information on virtual appointments with a gastroenterologist, please contact Phable. Phable can help you find a qualified gastroenterologist who can provide quality care from the comfort of your own home.

Yes, a gastroenterologist can treat a hernia, which is a protrusion of an organ or tissue through an abdominal opening. Hernias can occur in the abdomen, groin, or chest. Since gastroenterologists are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the digestive system, which includes the abdomen and groin, they can diagnose and treat hernias that occur in these areas. Depending upon the symptoms or severity of hernia, the gastroenterologist may refer the patient to another doctor who specializes in a particular kind of treatment.

Yes, gastroenterologists can diagnose and help with the treatment of piles. Piles or hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. You may also consult a proctologist for the treatment of piles.

Gastroenterologists are specialized in diagnosing and treating diseases related to the digestive system. They may not perform any kind of surgeries, but they can perform various diagnostic procedures like endoscopy, colonoscopy, and biopsy to examine the different structures within the digestive system. They can also work in close association with gastrointestinal surgeons for surgical procedures.

Yes, a gastroenterologist can detect the presence of cancer through various tests and procedures. These may include:

• Endoscopies and colonoscopies- To inspect the gastrointestinal tract for the presence of cancerous tumors.

• Biopsies - To obtain tissue samples that can be analyzed in a laboratory to determine the presence of cancer cells.

• Blood tests - To look for elevated levels of certain proteins that may indicate the presence of cancer.

• Imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs - To detect tumors or growths in the gastrointestinal tract that may suggest the presence of cancer.