1. What does a gastroenterologist treat?
A gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats conditions related to the digestive system—including the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
2. What symptoms should I see a gastroenterologist for?
Common symptoms include chronic indigestion, acid reflux, abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or blood in stool. These could be signs of underlying digestive or liver conditions. Schedule a consultation if you're having these conditions.
3. What is hepatology, and how is it different?
Hepatology is a sub-specialty of gastroenterology focused specifically on liver-related conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer. If you have abnormal liver function tests or chronic liver disease, a hepatologist can provide targeted care.
4. Do I need a referral to see a gastroenterologist in Singapore?
In public healthcare settings, a referral from a general practitioner is often required. However, some institutions offer direct access.
5. What tests might be done during my consultation?
Depending on your symptoms, your liver specialist may order blood tests, stool tests, endoscopy, colonoscopy, or imaging such as ultrasound or CT scans. These help diagnose and manage conditions of the digestive and hepatobiliary systems effectively.