Here’s How To Go About Selecting The Best Gastroenterologist

 Gastroenterology is a stream of medicine that deals with the study of the digestive system including the pancreas, gall bladder, bile ducts and liver and various disorders related to these organs. This is a vast field of study as it requires the knowledge of so many different organs and the expertise to correctly diagnose the issues related to them. As such, you need to be very sure about the efficiency and expertise of the doctor before consulting one. Here’s how you can go about looking for the best gastroenterologist.

Ask for recommendations: Whether you are looking to consult a gastroenterologist in Delhi or in Bangalore, Hyderabad or any city for that matter, you should always first ask around for some recommendations. If any one of your acquaintances has had a good experience with a certain doctor you can always trust that doctor for a good diagnosis, treatment and management of your condition.

Check online for recommendations: Nowadays there are some very good websites and apps with the help of which you can book doctor’s appointments and even read reviews about them. These websites offer detailed information about the doctor’s qualification, their experience, schedule and everything else that patients might need to know.

Read the Reviews: While recommendations from friends and family are definitely helpful in finding a good doctor, reading reviews online can be extremely helpful as there you can see what people with different issues have to say about the doctor. The reviews help you get an overall understanding of the doctor’s behaviour as well as the approach towards patients.

Check the associated medical facility: In disciplines like gastroenterology, the doctor may often need to perform investigative procedures like endoscopy for which the patient may need to be admitted to the hospital the doctor is associated with. As such, it is very important to know all you can about the medical facility.

Try to know about the fee: Before you go to a gastroenterologist in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai or any city, you must try to find out about the doctor’s fee. You can always get detailed information about the doctor’s visit from different sites or even the website of the hospital that the doctor may be associated with.

An Insight into Diverse Types of Liver Tumors

There are many severe medical conditions associated with the liver, hepatic tumours being one of them. It basically refers to a type of growth occurring in or on the liver. Liver tumours can be divided into primary and secondary. In the former case, the tumour arises in the liver, while in the latter the tumour starts in some other organ but gradually spreads to the liver. No matter which of the conditions you are diagnosed with, it is important to consult the best liver specialist at Sir Ganga Ram hospital or some other renowned healthcare facility, for its treatment. 

The liver often becomes a site for metastatic tumours as it receives blood from multiple other organs. Hence, secondary tumours are way more prevalent than the ones developing in the liver itself. They can be either benign or malignant.

Benign liver Tumours

• Hemangioma: This is the most common type of benign liver tumour. Even though they usually do not cause any major symptom, such tumours do lead to bleeding at times, and subsequently, have to be removed. 
• Hepatic adenomas: Such epithelial tumours develop in the liver itself, and are usually seen among women using estrogens as contraceptives, as well as individuals taking steroids. These tumours are located in the right hepatic lobe and may cause extreme abdominal pain.
• Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH): Such tumours generally develop due to localized hepatocyte response to underlying congenital arteriovenous malformation.

A malignant or cancerous tumour of liver

• Hepatocellular carcinoma: This type of liver cancer develops due to chronic liver inflammation.
• Hepatoblastoma: Developing in children and infants, this is a rare variety of malignant liver tumours. 
• Cholangiocarcinoma: Comprising of mutated epithelial cells, this is also known as bile duct cancer.

Most of such tumours are metastases from other tumours, usually the ones developing in the GI tract. They may also spread from renal cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and more. 

Regardless of the specific type of liver tumour, you may have, their proper management and treatment are extremely crucial. For this purpose, you must contact the best liver specialist at Sir Ganga Ram hospital or any other leading medical centre. Due to the high severity of many liver tumours, you should try to get treated at the best possible facility.

Here’s All You Need to Know About POEM

POEM is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure that helps in the treatment of Achalasia. This procedure has made the treatment of the poem for Achalasia much less complicated and painful for the patient. 

The write-up focuses on the condition of Achalasia as well as this innovative treatment procedure.

What is POEM for Achalasia?

Achalasia is a condition in which the lower oesophagal sphincter gets damaged due to which food that is swallowed does not empty into the abdomen. This leads to a condition known as dysphagia wherein the person always has a feeling of food stuck in the throat and even feels nauseated. People suffering from Achalasia eventually develop other serious conditions like weight loss, chest pain, difficulty in swallowing, etc.

POEM: An Effective Treatment for Achalasia

While earlier Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy was considered the most effective treatment for Achalasia, it required making multiple incisions in the abdomen. POEM, which is the abbreviated form of Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy, however, replaced this procedure as it requires just one incision and is more efficient. 

In this procedure, a flexible upper endoscope is first used to create an incision into the mucosa of the oesophagus. The endoscope is then pushed down into the oesophagus after which an endoscopic myotomy is carried out. After the procedure is completed, the oesophageal mucosal incision is sealed with the help of clips. The entire procedure of POEM is done under general anaesthesia and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. 

After the adequate recuperation time, the next morning, an upper GI is performed in order to assess how well the patient can swallow. The patient is given a full liquid diet for two consecutive weeks after the procedure. For the follow-ups after POEM for Achalasia, be it in Delhi or any other city, doctors call the patients to the hospital or their clinics after a span of two weeks and then again after a span of six weeks. 

Advantages of POEM

Since POEM involves making a single small incision, it ensures minimal discomfort for the patient. People undergoing POEM also enjoy quick recovery with no visible scars. With POEM for Achalasia done by doctors in Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore or any other city, there is also a minimal chance of injury to other organs along with fewer chances of incisional hernias.

All You Need to Know About Esophagitis

Esophagitis refers to the inflammation of the esophagus (the muscular tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach.) Esophagitis may even cause damage to the tissues of the esophagus. The causes of this condition may include stomach acids backing up into the esophagus (acid reflux), an oral infection, and certain medications or allergies. Let us know more about esophagitis: 

Symptoms

Some of the common symptoms of esophagitis are:

• trouble in swallowing
• sore throat
• pain in the chest 
• hoarse voice
• nausea
• low appetite 
• cough 

Types of Esophagitis

There are majorly four different types of esophagitis: 

1. Eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis occurs when there is a high concentration of white blood cells (eosinophils) in the esophagus. This usually happens in response to an allergen. Some of the most common triggers may include:

• milk
• eggs
• tree nuts
• soy
• peanuts
• wheat
• shellfish

2. Reflux esophagitis

Reflux esophagitis refers to the issue caused due to the frequent backflow of acid. This is also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This may even cause long-lasting inflammation and constant irritation of the esophagus.

3. Drug-induced esophagitis

Drug-induced esophagitis takes place when certain medications remain in contact with the lining of the esophagus for a long period of time. This usually happens when an individual gulps down pills with little or no water. Pain relievers and antibiotics are some of the medications that may cause drug-induced esophagitis.

4. Infectious esophagitis

Infectious esophagitis is a rare condition and can be caused due to bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites. People with weakened immune system are at a higher risk of developing this condition. It is also common in people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or diabetes.

We hope that this information will help you get an idea of esophagitis. Also, it is important that one should get diagnosis from one of the best esophagus doctors Delhi or Gurgaon in case they observe any aforementioned symptoms.

Things to Know About Cirrhosis of the Liver

Cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease, growing slowly over many years. In this condition, the healthy liver tissue is damaged and replaced by scarr tissue, damaging the liver permanently. With time, the condition becomes severe as it can begin blocking the blood flow through the liver. It also prevents the liver from working normally. Cirrhosis is a liver condition that involves irreversible scarring and loss of liver cells. Every time the liver gets damaged, it can repair itself and create hard scar tissue. However, when extreme scar tissue builds up, the liver stops working properly. One must visit a liver specialist if he or she feels any kind of symptoms. Early detection can help people keep the problem in check. Those who are looking forward to consulting the best liver specialist in Delhi can visit Gangaram Hospital.

Symptoms

Cirrhosis often shows no signs and symptoms until the condition gets extensive. However, when signs and symptoms occur, these may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and fatigue
• Weight loss
• Easily bleeding or bruising
• Itchy skin
• Pain in the area of the liver
• Swelling in feet, legs, or ankles
• Spiderlike blood vessels on the skin
• Fluid buildup in the abdomen 
• Jaundice or yellow discolouration in the eyes and skin    

Causes

Cirrhosis always develops due to another liver disease or problem. There are different types of conditions and problems that can damage the liver and cause cirrhosis. Some of the major causes include:

• Chronic hepatitis (hepatitis B, C, and D)
• Poorly formed bile ducts (biliary atresia)a
• A fat build-up in the liver which is a non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Chronic alcohol abuse
• Genetic digestive disorder 
• Infection, including syphilis or brucellosis
• Hereditary disorders of sugar metabolism
• Certain medication
• Liver disease caused by the body's immune system 

One can reduce their chances of cirrhosis by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a plant-based healthy diet, avoiding alcohol consumption, and avoiding the risks of hepatitis. Those who are concerned about the risks of liver cirrhosis or feel any discomfort associated with the liver must consult a Liver specialist at Gangaram Hospital in Delhi or any other reputed hospital in another city.

Pancreas: Functions and Disorders

The pancreas is an abdominal organ and is a vital part of the digestive system. Its function is to produce insulin and other important enzymes and hormones that help in breaking down food. It also has an endocrine function as it releases juices that go directly into the bloodstream where it regulates the system’s glucose or sugar levels. Issues with insulin control may lead to diabetes. Other than this, it also has an exocrine function since it releases juices into the ducts. The enzymes or digestive juices are secreted by the pancreas in the small intestine. This is where it continues breaking down food. Let us know more about its functions and the common disorders of the pancreas. 

Disorders

If the above-mentioned functions are not properly carried out by the pancreas, it can lead to various pancreatic disorders, like:

• Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas: This occurs when digestive enzymes begin digesting the pancreas itself. 
• Pancreatic cancer: formation of cancer cells in the pancreas. 
• Cystic fibrosis: This is a genetic disorder in which a thick and sticky mucus blocks tubes in the pancreas. 

Symptoms 

The pancreas plays multiple roles. Thus, there can be various symptoms that an individual may observe in case pancreas is not functioning well. Some of the most common symptoms are:

• fever
• abdominal tenderness
• nausea or vomiting
• weight loss
• bloating
• diarrhoea
• light-coloured stool
• foul-smelling stool

These symptoms could be because of an underlying condition like EPI or pancreatitis. Thus, one should not overlook these symptoms and should consult one of the best pancreas specialists in Delhi or Gurgaon. 

Prevention

By altering a few habits and bringing in some lifestyle changes, one can prevent various disorders related to the pancreas. Some of the ways, in which one can reduce the risk of developing pancreatic diseases are:

• Consuming little or no alcohol 
• Consuming a low-fat diet
• Leading an active lifestyle (exercise regularly and lose excess weight)
• Skipping crash diets
• Quitting smoking

Severe disorders like pancreatitis and pancreas cancer can be treated if diagnosed in the early stages. Thus, it is extremely important to consult a pancreas specialist as soon as the individual starts witnessing symptoms. 

An Overview of Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a disease that occurs when digestive enzymes are activated while they are still in the pancreas. This irritates the cells in the pancreas can result in inflammation. The pancreas is located behind the stomach in the upper abdomen. It produces enzymes that help in digestion and hormones that regulate the way the body processes sugar (glucose). Pancreatitis is generally divided into two types- acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. 

Acute pancreatitis 

Acute pancreatitis refers to a sudden inflammation in the pancreas which lasts for a short period. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of acute pancreatitis could be:

• Abdominal pain 
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Rapid pulse
• Nausea

Chronic pancreatitis 

Chronic pancreatitis refers to long-lasting inflammation in the pancreas. Some of the major symptoms of chronic pancreatitis may include:

• Upper abdominal pain
• Unexpected weight loss
• Steatorrhea

Risk Factors

Various factors may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. Some of the major risk factors include:

Cigarette smoking: On average, smokers are three times more likely to develop chronic pancreatitis as compared to non-smokers. However, giving up smoking may reduce this risk to half. 

Excessive alcohol consumption: According to research, people who consume alcohol regularly are at higher risk of developing pancreatitis.

Obesity: Obese people are more likely to develop pancreatitis. 

Family history: Genetics also play a major role and may be responsible for chronic pancreatitis in individuals. Thus, having a family history of pancreatitis may increase an individual’s chances of developing the condition. 

Treatment of pancreatitis usually depends on the type and severity of the disease. Thus, one should consult only the best pancreas specialist in Delhi NCR to avail proper treatment and medication for the disease. 

We hope that this information will help you get a better idea of the disease, its symptoms and causes.

Things You Should Know About Pancreatic Pseudocyst

The pancreas is an oblong-shaped organ situated on the backside of the abdomen. It sits behind the stomach and is about 6 to 8 inches long. Pancreas extends horizontally along the backside of the abdomen with its head on the right and tail on the left side of the abdomen. It performs the below-mentioned functions:

• Exocrine function
  

The exocrine function of the pancreas involves breaking down of food in the small intestine. The food in the small intestine breaks down when the pancreas releases digestive juices and enzymes into it through a duct connecting the upper part of the small intestine to the head of the pancreas. 

• Endocrine Function
  

The process of regulating the blood sugar levels by releasing insulin and glucagon is called the exocrine function of the pancreas.

Let us understand about pancreatic pseudocyst. 

Pancreatic pseudocyst

When pancreatic ducts carrying digestive juices and enzymes to the small intestine get blocked, the enzymes and juices start leaking. These fluids began to accumulate in a sac on the pancreas and this sac is called pancreatic pseudocyst. Pancreatic pseudocysts are completely different from true pancreatic cysts, even though both of them are filled with fluids. Pancreatic cysts are a closed structure surrounded by the cells that separate them from the nearby tissues. Pancreatic pseudocysts, on the other hand, are not closed and are not lined by the cells that separate them from the nearby tissues.   

Symptoms of the pancreatic pseudocyst

• Abdominal pain radiating to the back
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Blood in vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Fall in the appetite
• Drastic weight loss
• Jaundice
• Fever
• Fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity
• Decreased alertness and awareness
• Fast heartbeat
• Fainting

Causes of pancreatic pseudocyst

• Pancreatitis
• Injury or trauma to the pancreas
• High cholesterol
• Damage to the pancreas caused by medicines
• Autoimmune diseases
• Tumour in the pancreas
• Hereditary condition

People experiencing the above-mentioned symptom should see the best pancreas specialist in Delhi or anywhere else as soon as possible. Pancreatic specialist, after performing a thorough physical examination, prescribes tests like endoscopic ultrasound and blood tests to diagnose the pancreatic pseudocyst.

Things You Need to Know About Upper Endoscopy

 An upper endoscopy, known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy, is a procedure that helps to visually examine the patient’s upper digestive system with the help of a tiny camera attached at the end of a long, flexible tube, known as an endoscope. A gastroenterologist uses this tool to diagnose or treat conditions that affect the oesophagus, stomach, and small intestine (duodenum). Let us know more about the procedure: 

Preparation

Usually, people who are undergoing upper endoscopy receive a sedative. This helps them relax and make them more comfortable during the procedure. The patient may be mentally alert, but their memory, reaction time, and judgment may be partially impaired for around 24 hours. It is suggested that the patient should bring along someone who can drive them home after the procedure. 

During the Procedure 

During an upper endoscopy procedure, the patient will be asked to lie down on a table either on their back or on their side. The procedure involves: 

Attaching monitors to the body: This allows the health care team to keep a tab on the patient’s breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate.

Administering medications: Sedatives and medications is injected through the vein in the forearm. 

Spraying an anaesthetic in the mouth: This is used to numb the throat that helps the patient prepare for insertion of the endoscope. The patient may also be asked to wear a plastic mouth guard that will hold his/her mouth open.

Inserting the endoscope: The patient will also be asked to swallow to help the endoscope pass down the throat. The patient may feel some pressure which is normal. 

Symptoms

Some of the common signs and symptoms to watch for after the procedure is over are:

• Fever
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Dark coloured stool
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
• Vomiting

We hope that this information will help in the preparation of an esophagogastroduodenoscopy and will make the process quite easy for the patient. Also, it is advised that one should only get such procedures done by the best endoscopist in Delhi NCR to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

A brief overview of the pancreas and when to see a doctor

 The pancreas in the human body is about the 6-inch long organ that is located behind the stomach. It silently works like a machine, meal after meal. Being an organ of the digestive system, it works as an exocrine gland that releases pancreatic juices to break down fats, carbohydrates, and protein to extract nutrients and transform them into fuel for the body.

Pancreas might stop working properly because of certain pancreatic disorders which may include acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, hereditary pancreatitis, and pancreatic cancer. 

Causes of pancreatitis

Some of the most common cause of pancreatitis are:

• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Gallstones
• Some medications
• Genetic disorders

Symptoms of pancreatitis

• Upper abdominal pain
• Abdominal pain that aggravates after eating
• Abdominal pain that spreads to the back 
• Nausea
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Tenderness when touching the abdomen
• Indigestion
• Loss of appetite
• Smelly stools (steatorrhea)
• Sudden weight loss

When to see a doctor

When you witness any of the mentioned symptoms, you need to see a gastroenterologist as soon as possible. A gastroenterologist treats diseases and disorders of the esophagus, small intestine, stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, colon and rectum, and bile ducts and liver. 

When you consult with the doctor, he/she will advise you to undergo certain tests which are used to diagnose pancreatitis. These include a blood test, stool test, CT scan, abdominal ultrasound, endoscopy, and MRI among others.  

Preparing for your appointment

Now since we know when to consult a doctor, let us understand what are things that we need to keep in mind before visiting the doctor. Because these appointments are often brief and there is a lot to discuss, hence it is a good idea to be well-prepared. 

• Be aware of pre-appointment restrictions 
• List down the symptoms to explain
• Write down the medications that have been taken along with recent life changes 
• Take a family member along as it is difficult to absorb every bit of information  

What to ask the doctor? 

Some basic questions include: 

• What are the possible causes of the symptoms? 
• What kind of tests are required? 
• Is the condition temporary or chronic?
• What would be the best cause of action?
• Are there any restrictions to follow?
• What will be the treatment cost? 
• Will it be covered in health insurance?

Keeping these questions is important when consulting with the doctor. Also, it is important that individuals approach the best pancreas specialist in Delhi or whichever city they live in to be able to receive effective treatment.

Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatment

 The pancreas is an important organ located in the abdomen area. It plays a vital role in converting the food into energy for the body cells. The pancreas has two major functions: the exocrine function which helps in digestion and an endocrine function that helps in the regulation of blood sugar. Both cancerous and noncancerous tumours can develop in the pancreas. Diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in its early stage can help a lot in the treatment. Let us know more about this condition: 

Symptoms

Some common symptoms linked with pancreatic cancer can be:

• Fatigue
• Unintended weight loss
• Abdominal pain radiating to the back
• Yellowing of skin and the whites of eyes (jaundice)
• Loss of appetite 
• Dark-coloured urine
• Light-coloured stools
• Blood clots
• Itchy skin

Risk factors

Factors that may increase an individual’s risk of developing pancreatic cancer may include:

• Smoking
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Old age
• Chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
• Family history of genetic syndromes can increase the risk of cancer 
• Family history of pancreatic cancer

Treatment 

Following are the treatment options available for pancreatic cancer:

Surgery

There are majorly four types of surgeries that can be performed to treat pancreatic cancer, namely: 

• Surgery for tumours in the pancreatic head 
• Surgery for tumours in the pancreatic body and tail
• Surgery for tumours affecting nearby blood vessels
• Surgery to remove the entire pancreas (pancreatectomy)

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a treatment that is used to kill cancer cells with certain types of drugs. These drugs can either be injected or taken orally. The patient may receive one chemotherapy drug or a combination of them depending on their condition. Chemotherapy is also often combined with radiation therapy (chemoradiation). It is typically used to treat cancer that has not spread other organs. 

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. An individual may receive radiation treatments before or after cancer surgery. These are often combined with chemotherapy when the condition cannot be treated surgically.

Proper treatment can improve the quality of life by managing symptoms and complications related to pancreatic cancer. Thus, it is important to only go for the best pancreas specialist in Delhi to get the right treatment.

What to Know About Digestive Diseases and Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a nonsurgical medical process that is used to check a person's digestive tract. It is the insertion of a long and flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it, directly into the body to inspect an internal organ and tissues. Endoscopy is also used to capture images of the internal organ and perform minor surgeries. In medical terms, the upper endoscopy is called esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Often, doctors prescribe this medical process for the following reasons:

Examine signs and symptoms

This minimally invasive process may help doctors to determine causes of digestive problems such as:

• Digestive tract bleeding
• Stomach pain
• Polyps or growths in the colon
• Gastritis, ulcers or difficulty swallowing
• Changes in bowel habits (chronic constipation or diarrhoea)

Tissue samples 

The doctors may prescribe this process to collect tissue samples (biopsy) to assess them for any specific conditions and health diseases including bleeding, inflammation, anaemia, diarrhoea, or cancers of the digestive tract.

Treatment

The endoscopist may use some specific tools through the endoscope to treat problems in the digestive tract system including destroying or removing a strange object, clipping off a polyp, or widening a narrow esophagus.

How to prepare for Endoscopy?

Examining the upper digestive tract requires a person to keep a fast for 7-8 hours before the procedure to ensure that the stomach is unfilled and set for the endoscopy. If an individual takes certain blood-thinning medicines, the doctor may ask him to stop medications before the procedure.

Risks and side effects

Though endoscopy is a safe medical procedure, there may be some potential complications such as:

• A numb throat for a few hours due to the effects of local anesthetic
• Feeling bloated for a few hours after the process
• Pain in endoscopy part
• Complications related to previous health problems

Those who are prescribed for this medical procedure need to choose the best endoscopist in Delhi, Mumbai or any other city. During the process, the person will be given a sedative or general anesthesia to make them comfortable and relaxed. Patients may wake up within an hour but it will take 24 hours for the sedation effect to wear off.

Hepatitis C: Stages and Symptoms

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that severely affects the liver. It is caused by the Hepatitis C virus and leads to inflammation of the liver. In the initial stages, symptoms are mild. It might not require any treatments if the body’s immune system is strong enough to fight the infections. When this is the case, hepatologists ask to get some blood test done to monitor the liver functioning. However, if the body’s immune system is weak and unable to clear the virus on its own, treatment becomes compulsory. Hepatitis C, if left untreated, can result in liver damage, liver cancer and even fatality. To treat hepatitis c, best hepatologist in Delhi or anywhere else usually prescribe some interferons and antivirals. Let us check out the stages of hepatitis C.

Acute Hepatitis C

The first six months of Hepatitis C, after contracting hepatitis C virus, is considered to be the acute phase. People suffering from acute hepatitis C usually do not experience any symptoms. But if they do, they might notice early symptoms which include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• JaundicePeople having strong immune system recover from acute hepatitis c within a few weeks without any treatment.

Chronic Hepatitis C

When the body’s immune system is weak enough to fight the infection, hepatitis C gradually progresses to the chronic stage. Often, chronic hepatitis C goes undiagnosed for years and symptoms take time to show up. In the chronic stage, continuous inflammation of the liver kills healthy liver cells. When this starts happening, the following symptoms start appearing:

• Fatigue
• Stomach upset
• Decreased appetite
• Pain in joint and muscles

Compensated Cirrhosis

Compensated cirrhosis is the early period of cirrhosis. At this stage, due to inflammation in the liver, liver cells get damaged and hardened scar tissues replace the liver cells. At this stage, it becomes difficult for the liver to filter toxins and as a result, these toxins start contaminating the blood. Some of the symptoms of compensated cirrhosis are:

• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Unusual weight loss
• Brain fog
• Fluid retention and swelling in the abdomen
• Bruising
• Loss of muscle mass

Decompensated Cirrhosis

In decompensated cirrhosis, due to liver scarring liver dysfunction arises. At this stage, serious complications like liver failure and liver cancer might occur and they can be fatal. Some of the symptoms of decompensated cirrhosis are:

• Swelling in legs
• Brain fog
• Bleeding from the large blood vessels in the oesophagus
• Jaundice
• Bruising
• Ascites, i.e. accumulation of fluid in the abdomen
• Severe fatigue
• Continuous weight and muscle loss

Hepatitis C is contagious. There are high chances of getting infected with hepatitis C if people come in contact with the blood or the body fluid of an infected person.

Celiac Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Cereal grains such as wheat and barley have a protein called gluten in it. This particular protein, unlike peptides, does not get broken down by digestive enzymes easily. Human beings who suffer from celiac disease have an intolerance of gluten, leading to severe digestive problems whenever this protein is consumed. If this disease is not treated in time, then serious damage can take place in the small intestine of the patient. For this reason, consulting a renowned gastroenterologist in Delhi, Mumbai and other metropolitan cities is advised for those who have a family history of celiac disease. 

Symptoms 

As this medical condition is an autoimmune disorder, its symptoms can often mimic other issues in the body. The commonly observed signs are abdominal pain, bloating, feeling of fullness, constipation, flatulence, heartburn, and mouth ulcers. In some cases, patients might experience diarrhoea, joint pain, rashes, severe headaches, and nausea. Besides this, anaemia and unexplained weight loss have also been linked to celiac disease. Moreover, children suffering from this disorder might face neurological issues disabilities related to learning and ADHD. 

Causes

The root cause of this condition has been not been found yet, however, it has been seen to run in families due to certain genes. This does not mean that every offspring will suffer from celiac disease, but a few individuals in the bloodline would be gluten intolerance. In the racial context, Caucasians are at a higher risk of celiac disease than others. People suffering from serious health conditions such as Addison’s disease, Down syndrome, and type 1 diabetes are susceptible to celiac disease as well. 

Treatment

For diagnosis, serological tests are conducted in order to look for the presence of certain antibodies related to celiac disease. Along with this, genetic testing is also initiated for the patient. If the condition has progressed, then the medical practitioner will conduct an endoscopy to analyse the intestinal damage. A gluten-free diet has to be followed by a celiac disease patient throughout her/his lifetime. Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as drinking excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages and consuming tobacco products should be avoided. If there is a lack of nutrients, then the gastroenterologist will prescribe supplements to the patient. 

Celiac disease can be managed with a healthy diet plan that eliminates all gluten products. As it is a lifelong disorder, the patient should ensure that her/his intestines are checked regularly. 

Causes and Symptoms of Enlarged Pancreas

An enlarged pancreas can happen for several reasons. The pancreas is a big gland, sitting behind the stomach in the upper abdomen and aid in the digestion process. It creates enzymes into the small intestine to help digest food. The pancreas also produces glucagon and insulin in the bloodstream to help the body to regulate the food effectively for energy. Pancreatitis happens when digestive enzymes get overactive in the pancreas, causing damage to its tissues. This can be a reason for an enlarged pancreas. However, a few more causes and symptoms of the enlarged pancreas are mentioned below.

 

Causes

Chronic pancreatitis

Heredity, excessive alcohol consumption, cystic fibrosis, increased levels of fats and calcium in the blood, and some particular medicines are some causes of chronic pancreatitis. In such conditions, the swelling goes worse with time and can lead the pancreas to permanent damage. It is vital for the patients to consult the best pancreas specialist in Delhi, Mumbai or any city to start the treatment immediately.

Acute pancreatitis

In cases of acute pancreatitis, inflammation occurs suddenly in the pancreas. It can be a severe condition but can be treated within a few months of medication. Gallstones and alcohol consumption are two major causes of acute pancreatitis. Some other causes may include infections, certain drugs, extreme levels of fats in the blood, and some specific medical procedures. 

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer happens due to atypical cell expansion in the pancreas, gradually spreading to other parts in the body, if left untreated. 

Abscess

An abscess is a pus-filled hole, generally happens due to bacterial infectivity. A pancreatic pseudocyst that gets infected can develop into an abscess. 

Symptoms of the enlarged pancreas

People with an enlarged pancreas may feel pain in the upper part of the abdomen which is the most common symptom. However, some other symptoms may include the following:

• Weight loss   
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Jaundice
• Diarrhoea or oily stools
• Rapid pulse

On experiencing such symptoms, patients must instantly consult a specialist to find the right treatment. They need to contact the best pancreas specialist in Delhi, Mumbai, or any other city to start getting treatment on time.

Gallstones: Meaning, Causes, Types, and Symptoms

The gallbladder is an organ of the shape of a small pouch that is situated below the liver. The function of the gallbladder is to help in digestion by storing and releasing the bile produced by the liver. When it collects and hardens inside the gallbladder gallstones are formed. A gallstone can be as small as a grain of sand and as big as a golf ball. 

Causes of Gallstones

• When an excess amount of cholesterol is present in the bile

Under normal circumstances, bile has enough chemicals to dissolve the cholesterol that is secreted by our liver. However, if the amount of cholesterol secreted by the liver larger than the amount that chemicals in bile can dissolve, it can lead the formation gallstones.

• When an excess amount of bilirubin is present in the bile

Bilirubin is a chemical that is produced when the red blood cells in our body break down. Conditions like cirrhosis, biliary tract infection and blood disorders causes the liver to produce bilirubin in excess amount. The overproduction of bilirubin by the liver contributes to the formation of gallstones.

• When some amount of bile is retained in the gallbladder

Gallbladder usually becomes empty after we consume food as it helps indigestion. While digestion if the gallbladder doesn’t become empty and a certain amount of bile is retained inside gallbladder every time, the bile becomes concentrated and leads to the formation of gallstones. 

Types of gallstones

• Cholesterol Gallstones

As we read above that sometimes liver secretes cholesterol more than than the amount that chemicals in bile can dissolve. Gallstones formed due to this cholesterol are called cholesterol gallstones. These gallstones are yellowish-green in colour. 

• Pigment gallstones

It has been explained above that sometimes gallstones are formed due to excessive production of bilirubin. These gallstones are called pigment gallstones. They are dark brown or black. 

Symptoms of gallstones

• Pain in the right-hand side of the upper abdomen, just below the ribs
• Pain in the right shoulder and back
• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Heartburn
• Gas
• Diarrhoea

See the best hepatologist in Delhi or anywhere else if you experience following signs of severe infection or inflammation:

• Fever
• Feeling of cold
• Yellow skin or eyes
• Dark urine
• Clay-coloured poop

Gallstones can be troublesome if not treated on time. Under severe condition, you might have to undergo surgery to get rid of gallstones.

Things You Need to Know about Endoscopy

An endoscopy is a nonsurgical medical procedure that involves putting in a long tube with a tiny camera on the top directly into the body of an individual to find out problems in internal organs or tissues. It is used to examine the upper part of the digestive system. A specialised physician or endoscopist carries out this process to detect and cure issues that may cause problems in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, the opening of the small intestine. The upper endoscopy is also known as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. It is also used to perform minor surgeries and capturing the internal organs.

Why endoscopy is prescribed?

Investigate signs and symptoms

The procedure can help doctors to detect the causes and signs of digestive problems such as vomiting, abdominal pain, nausea, difficulty swallowing, and gastrointestinal bleeding. It is also prescribed by doctors in case a person is suffering from stomach pain, digestive tract bleeding, diarrhoea or chronic constipation, growths or polyps in the colon, and ulcers. 

Diagnose and collect samples

The doctors often perform an endoscopy to collect tissue samples (biopsy) to assess them for specific conditions such as problems like bleeding, diarrhoea, anaemia, inflammation, or cancers in the digestive tract.

Treatment 

The doctors can use some special tools through the endoscope or tube to treat problems in the digestive tract system, these may include widening a contracted esophagus, removing an odd object, and clipping off a polyp. 

Risks involved with endoscopy

Endoscopy is a safe procedure, however, there may be a few risks such as:

• Over-sedation
• Mild cramping
• Persistent pain in endoscopy part
• Internal bleeding, usually minor and often treatable by endoscopic operation
• Complications related to previous health conditions

People who are prescribed endoscopy will be asked to keep fast for 8 to 12 hours before the procedure to ensure that the stomach is clear. To make them comfortable and relaxed during the procedure, they are given sedatives. People might feel that they are mentally alert, but their memory and reaction times may be impaired due to sedatives. It is highly recommended to get this procedure done from a reputed endoscopist. For instance, if you live in Delhi, you can find the best endoscopist in Gangaram hospital.

All You Need to Know about Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is swelling or inflammation of the pancreas. Located behind the stomach, near the small intestine, the pancreas is a flat and long gland. The pancreas makes enzymes that aid in digestion and hormones that regulating the way the body processes sugar (glucose). The issue of pancreatitis occurs when the enzymes harm the pancreas causing swelling. It can come and go fast or sometimes, it turns out to be a chronic problem. Treatment will be depending on whether a person has acute or chronic pancreatitis.

Individuals who are suffering from chronic or acute pancreatitis feel upper abdominal pain. However, those with chronic pancreatitis may show swelling on diagnostic scans but otherwise may feel no signs and symptoms. Here are some other symptoms of pancreatitis:

• Indigestion
• Fever
• Hiccups
• Abdominal tenderness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unintentional weight loss
• Bloating with a swollen abdomen
• Pain around the upper body and the back     

People suffering from chronic pancreatitis conditions may also have steatorrhea, which is a sign of malabsorption. It means that a person is not having all essential nutrients as their pancreas does not produce sufficient digestive enzymes to break down the food.

Types of pancreatitis

There are two major forms of pancreatitis that include the followings:

Chronic – This type of pancreatitis lasts a longer time, often for a few years.

Acute – It only lasts for a few days.

However, both types of conditions are severe and can cause health complications. Pancreatitis can also damage the pancreas permanently. But with proper treatment and medications, one can control the pain and live a normal life.

Causes 

There are several factors that can cause pancreatitis. Some of the most common causes include:

• Heavy alcohol use
• Certain medicines
• Genetic disorders of the pancreas
• Gallstones (digestive fluids that grow firm and create stones in the gallbladder)

Pancreatitis can be a serious health issue and, if people ignore the right treatment, it may cause EPI. People who have risks of growing such issues or have related signs must contact a good pancreas specialist in Delhi and make correct lifestyle changes to maintain the good health of their pancreas.

Common Medical Conditions Diagnosed and Treated by Hepatologists

Hepatology is a prominent and quite crucial branch of medical science. This domain deals with the prevention, study, diagnosis, and treatment of ailments that affect the liver, pancreas, biliary tree, or the pancreas of a person. All these organs are crucial to the overall health and well-being of a person. Hence, it is vital that people consult the best hepatologist in Delhi or some other Indian urban hubs, in case they face any hepatology related problems. 

Here are a few of the most common medical conditions that are usually diagnosed, treated, and managed by hepatologists:

• The diseases of the liver that are caused due to high alcohol consumption which include fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and liver cirrhosis.
• Viral hepatitis infections like hepatitis A, B, C, and E. These ailments are known to affect millions of people across the planet every year. Together Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are responsible for more than 80% of all liver cancer cases. 
• Liver injuries of diverse types, as well as gastrointestinal bleeding caused by portal hypertension which might be linked to any such injuries. 
• The process of liver transplantation and even the various related post-surgical care and treatment that the patient would need. 
• Jaundice, which is also referred to as icterus. In this condition, a greenish and yellowish pigmentation is caused on the skin of the patients due to high bilirubin levels.
• A few types of infections which are common in tropical countries and regions, such as hydatid cyst, kala-azar, and schistosomiasis.
• Pancreatitis, particularly when it is caused due to gallstones or excessive alcohol consumption on the part of the patients. 
• Long-term damage caused to the pancreas or biliary tract due to conditions like cancer, infection, bleeding, or some kind of obstruction. Such damage can be caused due to alcohol as well. 
• Drug metabolism, as well as genetic or metabolic liver disease.

These were only a few of the numerous ailments and diseases that are diagnosed and treated by hepatologists. People must contact the best hepatologist in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai or some other metro city in case they have been suffering from any symptoms of any kind of gastrointestinal or liver disease.

Three Most Common Pancreatic Problems One Must Know About

The pancreas is a major organ that plays a key role in digestion. During the digestion process, the pancreas creates juices known as enzymes. These enzymes crush starches, sugars, and fats and aid the digestive system by creating hormones, chemical messengers that move through the blood in the body. Pancreatic hormones help correct appetite and maintain the level of blood sugar, impact stomach acids, and notify the stomach when to clean. It is very important to keep the pancreas healthy in order to keep the digestive system working properly. Here are the three most common pancreatic problems everyone must know about.

Pancreatitis

This problem occurs when the pancreas gets inflamed. It is a painful condition where the digestive enzymes that pancreas create attack the pancreas and cause abdominal pain. The major reason for acute pancreatitis is gall stones, obstructing the bile duct. Chronic pancreatitis can lead to malnutrition and diarrhoea. 

Diabetes

In case the pancreatic beta cells in a person’s body do not create sufficient insulin or when the body cannot utilise the insulin that pancreas produces, it may develop diabetes, causing gastroparesis, a decrease in the function of the digestive system. When an individual does not have sufficient insulin and have a diet with high carbohydrates, their sugar level can increase and cause signs such as weight loss and hunger. After a few years, it can lead to kidney and heart illness among other health issues. 

Pancreatic cancer

Around 90% of pancreatic cancers start in the cells that create enzymes for digestion support. Not receiving sufficient pancreatic enzymes for regular digestion is a common condition in pancreatic cancer. The signs and symptoms of this condition may include indigestion, appetite, weight loss, and fatty stools.

The pancreas is crucial for food digestion and balancing the usage of sugar for energy after digestion. In case, a person feels any signs like abdominal pain, weight loss, loss of appetite and others, they must visit a doctor. They can contact the best Pancreas specialist at Gangaram hospital or other reputed hospitals.