What happens at a gastroenterology appointment?

A gastroenterologist investigates and treats issues relating to your digestive tract. 

If you have an ongoing condition that needs treatment or have recently been experiencing concerning symptoms, you may want to book an appointment with our consultant gastroenterologist.

At the Clinic @ 78, we offer support at every stage of your journey, from consultations and testing to gastroenterology treatment.

Read on to understand why you might want to see a gastroenterologist and what happens at a gastroenterology appointment.

Why would you need to see a gastroenterologist?

You may visit a gastroenterologist if you are experiencing ongoing digestive problems. This could be in the form of new symptoms or a diagnosed condition. 

Below we list some of the possible symptoms and conditions that could lead you to need to see a gastroenterologist.

Symptoms include:

• Nausea (feeling sick)
• Vomiting (being sick)
• Stomach/ abdominal pain
• Heartburn
• Acid Reflux
• Indigestion
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Diarrhoea

Conditions include:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis
• Coeliac disease
• Lactose intolerance
• Barrett’s oesophagus
• Gastritis
• Diverticulitis
• Intestinal bacterial overgrowth
• Bowel Cancer

There are various tests that we can perform to understand what is causing your symptoms.

We’ll discuss some of the other tests involved in gastroenterology a little later on.

Preparing for a gastroenterology appointment

If you have been experiencing ongoing digestive problems, it can be useful to keep track of your symptoms. You may want to start a symptom diary, which you can bring to your appointment.

Include:

• A list of your symptoms
• The frequency of your symptoms
• When your symptoms are occurring e.g. In the morning, after food in general or after a certain food
• Similarly, does anything trigger your symptoms?
• Does anything help your symptoms, such as eating a small meal or taking a painkiller?
• The kind of symptoms you are experiencing, for example, nausea or stomach pain
• Do you have a family history of digestive problems?
• If are currently taking any medications or have any diagnosed health conditions
• Your current diet (foods you are eating regularly)

If you are experiencing stomach pain:

• What level of pain are you feeling? 
• Does your pain level change during the day?
• Does the pain move?
• What kind of pain are you experiencing? For example, is it a sharp, stabbing feeling?

You may also wish to bring a list of questions relating to your issue. We know it can be difficult to remember everything during your appointment, so writing a list of the questions you have along the way can help make the process easier.

What happens at a gastroenterology appointment?

At your appointment, we will give you a thorough consultation. We will talk you through your symptoms or condition/s and possible triggers. A symptom diary can be helpful here.

We may need to do a physical examination, for example, feeling your abdominal area for tenderness or swelling. This can help us understand what you are experiencing and the severity of your symptoms.

Some digestive symptoms are not a cause for concern, though we may recommend further tests to understand what is causing your symptoms.

Gastroenterology tests include:

• Gastroscopy
• Colonoscopy
• Blood test
• Ultrasound
• Manometry
• pH
• Breath testing, e.g. H. pylori, lactose and fructose tests

We will let you know if you need further testing during the appointment and will explain, in detail, which test we are giving you and what you will need to do to prepare. We will also arrange any necessary follow-ups.

Before you leave, feel free to ask any questions you may have about your symptoms, condition/s, or necessary tests.

Learn more about gastroenterology

IBS vs IBD

IBS and IBD are two common digestive conditions that are often confused with each other. Healthline breaks down the differences between the two and where they overlap.

11 Tips for Better Digestive Health

Everyday Health lists 11 tips to improve your digestive health.

When is a stomach ache serious?

Learn the common causes of stomach aches and when to seek urgent medical care.

Natural constipation remedies

Are you experiencing constipation? Find out the natural methods of alleviating your symptoms.

10 foods that cause bloating and alternatives

Medical News Today lists 10 of the most common foods that cause bloating and the changes you can make to your diet to counter it. 

Please speak with a medical professional before making dramatic changes to your diet.

Why choose The Clinic @ 78?

Our specialist team offers comprehensive consultations, a broad range of GI physiology tests, and expert gastroenterology treatment.

Book an appointment with one of our specialists today to discover what is causing your symptoms.