What is Gastroenterology?
Gastroenterology is the study of the normal function and diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver.
A gastroenterologist needs to have a detailed understanding of the normal physiology of all the above-mentioned organs as well as motility through the intestines and gastrointestinal tract in order to maintain healthy digestion, absorption of nutrients, removal of waste and metabolic processes.
A gastroenterologist also needs to have a clear understanding of ailments affecting the organs of the gastrointestinal system like:
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Gastric cancers
- Esophageal cancers
- Achalasia
- Barret’s esophagus
- Colon polyps
- Colon and bowel cancers
- Pancreatitis
- Pancreatic cancers
- Cholecystitis
- Biliary tract disease
- Gallbladder stones and cancer
- Hepatitis
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Colitis
- Nutritional problems and malabsorption
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- A host of other disease conditions