At UMC, we offer a comprehensive range of services for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders in English. Our goal is to provide you with comfortable and effective care so you can return to living life to the fullest.

When Should You See a Gastroenterologist?

Schedule a consultation with a gastroenterologist if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain (varying in location and intensity).
• Heartburn, regurgitation, nausea, vomiting.
• Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea).
• Bloating, flatulence.
• Bitter taste in the mouth.
• Decreased appetite, weight loss.
• Blood in the stool or vomit.
• Discomfort or pain when swallowing.
• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice).
• Persistent fatigue and weakness.
• Suspected parasitic infection.

What Conditions Does a Gastroenterologist Treat?

The gastroenterologists at UMC are dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions, including:

• Esophageal disorders: Esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), achalasia, Barrett's esophagus.
• Stomach and duodenal disorders: Gastritis, peptic ulcer disease (gastric and duodenal ulcers), duodenitis, gastric polyps, Helicobacter pylori infection.
• Small and large intestinal disorders: Colitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulosis, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), celiac disease.
• Liver and biliary disorders: Hepatitis (viral, alcoholic, autoimmune), cirrhosis, gallstones, cholecystitis, cholangitis, biliary dyskinesia.
• Pancreatic disorders: Pancreatitis (acute and chronic), pancreatic cysts, pancreatic tumors.

Key Services at UMC's Gastroenterology Department:

• Consultation with an English-speaking gastroenterologist.
• Comprehensive GI diagnostics:
  • Laboratory testing (blood, stool, and urine tests).
  • Instrumental examinations:
    • Abdominal ultrasound.
    • Helicobacter pylori breath tests.
    • Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) testing.
    • Other tests as needed.
• Medical management of gastrointestinal disorders.
• Development of personalized dietary plans and nutrition counseling.
• Creation of individualized GI disease prevention programs.

Advantages of UMC's Gastroenterology Department:

• Highly Qualified Physicians: We have experienced gastroenterologists with in-depth knowledge and advanced skills.
• State-of-the-Art Equipment: We utilize cutting-edge equipment for diagnosing and treating GI disorders.
• Individualized Approach: We consider the unique needs of each patient and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Evidence-Based Medicine: We base our decisions on scientific data and clinical guidelines.
• Comfortable Environment: We strive to create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere for you.
• Insurance Compatibility: UMC works with most major insurance providers.

Additional Services:

• Gastroscopy (performed by a UMC physician at a partner clinic).
• Colonoscopy (performed by a UMC physician at a partner clinic).
• CT and MRI scans (performed at partner clinics).

Should I see a gastroenterologist if I have abdominal pain from time to time?

Yes. Even if the pain appears occasionally and goes away on its own, recurring episodes should be assessed by a doctor to determine the possible cause.

Can I see a gastroenterologist just because of heartburn?

Yes. Frequent heartburn may be associated with diseases of the oesophagus and stomach, including gastroesophageal reflux disease. The doctor can help determine the cause of the symptoms and whether further testing is needed.

What should I do if I have been experiencing bloating for a long time?

If bloating is persistent or frequently recurring, a consultation with a gastroenterologist is recommended. Depending on the symptoms, the doctor may prescribe tests, a breath test for Helicobacter pylori or SIBO, and other investigations.

Do I need to be examined if I have long-term constipation or diarrhoea?

Yes. If changes in bowel movements persist or regularly recur, it is important to determine their cause. A gastroenterologist may prescribe the necessary laboratory and diagnostic tests.

Can I have an abdominal ultrasound during a gastroenterology consultation?

Abdominal ultrasound is available at UMC as a separate service. The doctor can determine whether the examination is necessary depending on your symptoms and consultation findings.

Do I need a gastroscopy if I have persistent heartburn or stomach pain?

Not always. The need for gastroscopy depends on the symptoms, their duration and the results of the initial assessment. If the examination is necessary, gastroscopy is performed by a UMC doctor at a partner clinic.

Can Helicobacter pylori be tested without a gastroscopy?

Yes. UMC offers breath tests for Helicobacter pylori, which can be used to diagnose the infection without performing a gastroscopy.

What should I do if my doctor suspects SIBO?

A gastroenterologist may prescribe a breath test for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Based on the results, the doctor will determine the next steps.

Can I see a gastroenterologist because of unexplained weight loss?

Yes. Unexplained weight loss is one of the reasons to consult a gastroenterologist and requires an assessment of the digestive system and other possible causes.

Can I get an individual nutrition plan for gastrointestinal conditions?

Yes. UMC provides individual diet and nutrition plans based on the patient's condition and identified gastroenterological problems.