Food in Lahore is rich and full of spices. Because of this, many people often face digestive issues like heartburn, bloating, chest discomfort, or stomach pain. It is easy to ignore these signs, but seeing a qualified gastroenterologist in Lahore helps you find out if they are harmless or need medical care.
This guide explains what conditions gastroenterologists treat, the main tests they use, and how to book an appointment with Dr. Fahd Aziz Rana at Omar Hospital and Cardiac Centre, Johar Town.
What Does a Gastroenterologist Treat?
A gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats disorders of the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Daily, this means acid reflux, gastritis, stomach ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic constipation, diarrhea, hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and gallbladder disorders.
People tend to look for a “stomach specialist,” but there’s more to it than the stomach. It also includes the liver and bile ducts, so if you have a gastroenterologist who also specializes in hepatology, he can become your liver specialist in Lahore.
Common Digestive Conditions Treated
Acid Reflux and GERD
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid continues to reflux into the food pipe. Heartburn, a sour taste, regurgitation, a lingering cough, and difficulty swallowing are the usual signs. If it occurs more than a few times a week, it is referred to as GERD, and multiple acid exposures may cause the esophagus to become inflamed or scarred. Taking antacids repeatedly will just treat the symptom and not the cause.
Gastritis and Stomach Ulcers
Gastritis is an inflamed stomach lining, while an ulcer is a sore in the stomach or intestine. Common causes include bacterial infection (H. pylori) or frequent use of pain medicines. Black stools or vomiting blood are serious signs that require immediate medical attention.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS causes cramps, gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. It does not cause permanent harm to your body, but it can disrupt daily life. Doctors manage IBS with dietary adjustments, stress reduction, and medicine.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis cause long-term inflammation. Symptoms include blood in the stool, weight loss, and ongoing diarrhea. Early treatment helps keep these conditions well managed.
Liver Diseases
Gastroenterologists treat liver conditions such as hepatitis B and C, fatty liver disease, and jaundice. Fatty liver often has no symptoms in its early stages. If you experience persistent tiredness or yellowing of the eyes, you should seek a medical checkup.
Gallbladder and Pancreas Issues
These include gallstones and inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). Pain in the upper right stomach area after meals often relates to the gallbladder. Many of these conditions can be treated gently through endoscopic procedures rather than traditional open surgery.
Chronic Constipation and Diarrhea
Changes in bowel habits that last for several weeks should be evaluated by a doctor to address the underlying cause effectively.
When Should You See a Specialist?
Consider scheduling an appointment if you experience:
- Frequent heartburn or indigestion lasting over two weeks
- Difficulty or discomfort when swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in the stool or unusually dark stools
- Diarrhea or constipation that persists for weeks
- Yellowish coloring in your eyes or skin
- Frequent nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Ongoing stomach discomfort
Note: Sudden severe stomach pain or vomiting blood requires immediate emergency care at the nearest hospital.
Common Diagnostic Procedures
After reviewing your symptoms and health history, your doctor may suggest one of the following standard tests:
- Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy)
- Colonoscopy
- ERCP
- Liver Tests and Biopsy
Book Your Consultation With Dr. Fahd Aziz Rana
Don’t wait for digestive symptoms to get worse. Dr. Fahd Aziz Rana, a UK-trained consultant gastroenterologist and hepatologist, can find the cause and plan your treatment with endoscopy, colonoscopy, or ERCP where needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions does a gastroenterologist treat?
They care for disorders of the stomach, esophagus, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.
When should I see a gastroenterologist?
Schedule a visit if digestive symptoms persist for more than two weeks or occur alongside severe pain, bleeding, or weight loss.
What can an endoscopy detect?
Endoscopy helps diagnose ulcers, reflux damage, inflammation, polyps, infections, and tumors.
Is an endoscopy painful?
It is generally comfortable. Numbing sprays or mild sedation are used to ensure patient comfort.
Can a gastroenterologist treat liver conditions?
Yes, gastroenterologists with hepatology training treat conditions like fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
What is ERCP used for?
ERCP diagnoses and treats bile duct and pancreatic issues, such as removing duct stones, without needing open surgery.
