A patient’s story
Sarah came to clinic feeling frustrated. She had been living with bloating, reflux, and intermittent abdominal pain for years. Tests were normal, reassurance was repeated, yet her symptoms persisted. What she needed was not just another test, but a specialist evaluation that connected symptoms, physiology, and real-world impact.
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This is the role of modern gastroenterology.
What is gastroenterology?
Gastroenterology is the medical specialty focused on the digestive system, including the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
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A gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting digestion, absorption, gut–brain interaction, inflammation, motility, and liver health. Care ranges from functional gut disorders to complex inflammatory and structural disease, using both advanced diagnostics and personalised management.
What conditions do we assess and treat?
At LSDC Healthcare, we see patients with a wide spectrum of digestive concerns, including:
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Acid reflux, heartburn, and regurgitation
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Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)
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Abdominal pain and bloating
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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
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Constipation or chronic diarrhoea
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Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia)
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Unexplained nausea or early fullness
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Iron deficiency anaemia
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Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis)
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Fatty liver disease and abnormal liver tests
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Gallbladder and pancreatic conditions
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Unexplained weight loss or change in bowel habit
We also assess persistent symptoms with normal tests, where gut sensitivity, motility, or gut–brain signalling may be driving symptoms.
How we investigate digestive symptoms
Accurate diagnosis begins with careful clinical assessment, not just testing. When appropriate, we may recommend:
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Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy)
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Colonoscopy
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Abdominal ultrasound
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pH monitoring and impedance studies
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Oesophageal manometry
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Breath testing (including SIBO)
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Blood, stool, and functional investigations
Each test is chosen only when it adds value, and results are interpreted in clinical context.
A personalised, evidence-based approach
Digestive symptoms are rarely one-size-fits-all. Management may include:
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Targeted medical treatment
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Dietary and lifestyle guidance
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Gut–brain interventions where appropriate
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Endoscopic or minimally invasive therapies
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Surveillance and prevention strategies
Our aim is not just symptom control, but understanding why symptoms occur and addressing them safely and effectively.
When should you see a gastroenterologist?
You should seek specialist input if you experience:
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Persistent or worsening digestive symptoms
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Symptoms affecting quality of life
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Red-flag features such as bleeding, anaemia, weight loss, or night symptoms
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Ongoing symptoms despite treatment
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A family history of bowel cancer or inflammatory bowel disease
Early assessment often prevents unnecessary testing and delayed diagnosis.