A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating issues of the digestive system. Basically, they’re the specialists you will want to see for issues in your food pipe, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder and pancreas.
Your family doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist clinic in Singapore if you have ongoing tummy pain, trouble swallowing or unexplained weight loss. To find the cause of your discomfort, a gastroenterologist may use tests like endoscopies and scans and then guide you on treatment, which may range from simple diet changes to more advanced procedures.
If you’re like many people, seeing a gastroenterologist for the first time can feel daunting, especially if you’re unsure why your doctor made the referral. Often, general tests at a regular clinic do not reveal deeper issues but a gastroenterologist can perform detailed checks, spot hidden signs and give you a clear diagnosis.
That way, you avoid guessing games and unneeded treatments. The best part about seeing a gastroenterologist in Singapore is that these specialists are well trained and follow protocols that meet global standards.
What is the Most Common Symptom of Gastrointestinal Illness?
To begin, gastrointestinal (GI) illness refers to any condition or disease that affects the digestive tract. These illnesses can range from mild and temporary to chronic and serious, with symptoms varying depending on the specific condition.
The most common symptom of gastrointestinal illness that most people notice first is stomach pain or discomfort. When it comes up, you might feel dull aches, sharp pains or constant cramping around your belly button or lower abdomen. Often, this pain comes with other signs like bloating, nausea or changes in your bowel habits.
You might wonder, why does pain show up so often? The answer is this; your gut is sensitive to what you eat, how you feel and even how you move. Stress can speed up or slow down digestion, which may lead to cramps or spasms. Eating fatty meals or too much fibre all at once can also upset your stomach.
While a one-off tummy ache usually clears up, persistent pain that lasts more than a few days should not be ignored. It could be suggestive of issues like gastritis, ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome. If you find yourself reaching for pain relief regularly, it could be time to see a gastroenterologist.
What Symptoms Do Gastroenterologists Treat?
Gastroenterologists handle a wide range of digestive issues. However, if you are referred to one, you may have shown any of the symptoms below;
- Heartburn and acid reflux: This condition occurs when stomach acid flows back into your food pipe. Stomach acid flowing back into your food pipe can burn your chest or throat. Frequent heartburn may damage the lining of your food pipe if left untreated.
- Chronic diarrhoea or constipation: Passing stool more than three times a day or fewer than three times a week isn’t natural. This can point to a digestive disorder. Both patterns may need specialist assessments.
- Abdominal pain and cramping: Do you experience persistent or severe pain in your belly? The pain could be due to infections, inflammation or blockages. A gastroenterologist in Singapore can help you find the exact cause.
- Bloating and excess gas: You might feel full after eating only a small amount, or you may pass a lot of wind. This can happen if your body has trouble breaking down certain foods. It may also be linked to slow digestion or too much bacteria in the small intestine.
- Bleeding in stool: If you see blood in your stool or notice it looks dark and sticky like tar, it could mean there’s bleeding in your digestive tract. This might come from small issues like piles, or something more serious like ulcers or growths.
- Unexplained weight loss: If you’re losing weight without eating less or moving more, your body might not be absorbing nutrients properly. It could also mean there’s ongoing inflammation or another health problem. A doctor may need to run tests to find out what’s going on.
- Swallowing difficulties: If swallowing feels painful or like food is getting stuck, it could mean something is wrong with how your food pipe moves. This might happen if the food pipe is too narrow or not working properly. A doctor may need to run tests to find out the cause.
- Jaundice and liver issues: If your skin or eyes look yellow, it could mean something is wrong with your liver or gallbladder. This might happen with problems like hepatitis or a blocked bile duct. You might need a referral to a gastroenterologist in Singapore to run tests and give you the right treatment.
How Do I Find the Best Gastroenterologist?
Choosing the best gastroenterologist ensures you’re well placed to get the right diagnosis and treatment for stomach, bowel, or liver issues. Apart from spotting serious problems early, they can also help you prevent them from getting worse.
To find the best gastroenterologist in Singapore, consider experience. You will want to choose a doctor who has managed cases like yours. If you have chronic ulcerative colitis, find someone who sees many such patients. As you’d imagine, more procedures often mean finer skills. Here are a few other important considerations when choosing a gastroenterologist in Singapore;
- Gender preferences: Some people feel more at ease with a male or female doctor. Singapore has both options. Choose the one that helps you open up about personal symptoms.
- Communication skills: You need a doctor who listens and explains clearly. Note how they answer your first email or call. A good specialist will be happy to break down medical terms into plain language you can easily comprehend.
- Credentials and education: Check where the doctor trained and if they hold fellowship in gastroenterology. Membership in local or international societies signals ongoing learning.
Wrapping Up
Your digestive health plays a huge role in overall well-being. So, aim at seeing a specialist at the first sign of persistent symptoms to prevent complications and restore comfort. If you can find the right care, you will be in a good position to maintain control of your gut and live more confidently.
If you’ve noticed ongoing tummy pain, bloating or changes in digestion, don’t keep waiting. Book a consultation with a skilled gastroenterologist in our Singapore clinic today and get the answers you need. Call or visit us at;
Gastrohealth Clinic @ Gleneagles – Dr Bhavesh Doshi | Gastroscopy | Colonoscopy | Health Screening | EUS and ERCP Singapore
6A Napier Rd, #05-35C Gleneagles Hospital Annexe Block, Singapore 258500
Phone: +65 6355 5773
