Gastroenterology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the digestive system and its disorders. It includes the study, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.
Common Disorders & Diseases
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – Acid reflux causing heartburn and irritation.
- Peptic Ulcers – Sores in the stomach lining due to H. pylori infection or NSAIDs.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – Chronic digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea/constipation.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, causing chronic inflammation of the intestines.
- Hepatitis – Liver inflammation due to viral infection, alcohol, or autoimmune diseases.
- Cirrhosis – Liver scarring often caused by chronic liver disease or alcohol abuse.
- Gallstones – Hardened deposits in the gallbladder leading to pain and digestive issues.
- Pancreatitis – Inflammation of the pancreas due to alcohol, gallstones, or infections.
- Colon Cancer – A serious disease often detected through screening tests like colonoscopy.

