Digestive symptoms are common and may have many different causes. Consider speaking with a doctor if you experience symptoms that are persistent, recurring or concerning to you.
Not sure what your symptoms mean?
A consultation can help determine the possible cause and whether further investigation is appropriate.
Digestive symptoms can have many possible causes, from common gastrointestinal concerns to conditions that may require further investigation or ongoing management.
At The Gastro Practice, we provide assessment and care for a range of digestive, gastrointestinal, liver, biliary and pancreatic conditions. Where appropriate, diagnostic and endoscopic procedures may be recommended to help understand the cause of your symptoms and guide your care.
Recurring heartburn, acid regurgitation or discomfort caused by stomach contents flowing back into the oesophagus.
Abdominal pain or discomfort can have many possible causes, including inflammation of the stomach lining and other gastrointestinal conditions.
A gastrointestinal condition commonly associated with abdominal discomfort, bloating and changes in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhoea.
Conditions including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis that cause ongoing inflammation within the digestive tract.
Difficulty passing stools, infrequent bowel movements or a persistent feeling of incomplete bowel emptying.
Frequent or loose stools that may be short-term or persistent, depending on the underlying cause.
A sensation of abdominal fullness, tightness or increased gas that may be associated with diet or an underlying digestive condition.
Difficulty or discomfort when swallowing food or liquids, also known as dysphagia, which may require further assessment to determine its cause.
Conditions affecting the movement of food and contents through the digestive system, which may contribute to symptoms such as swallowing difficulties, bloating, constipation or other changes in digestion.
Swollen blood vessels around the anus or lower rectum that may cause discomfort, itching or bleeding during bowel movements.
Growths that develop on the inner lining of the colon. While many are benign, certain types may develop into colorectal cancer over time.
Assessment and management of conditions affecting the liver, which may be identified through symptoms, abnormal liver function tests or imaging.
Conditions affecting the gallbladder and bile ducts, including gallstones and other causes of bile duct obstruction or inflammation.
Assessment of conditions affecting the pancreas, which can be associated with symptoms such as abdominal pain, digestive difficulties or abnormalities detected during investigations.
A procedure that uses a thin, flexible endoscope to examine the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine.
An endoscopic examination of the colon and rectum that may be used to investigate bowel symptoms, identify abnormalities or as part of colorectal cancer screening.
A small capsule containing a camera is swallowed to capture images of the digestive tract, particularly areas of the small intestine that may be difficult to examine using conventional endoscopy.
A procedure combining endoscopy and ultrasound to provide detailed images of the digestive tract and nearby structures, including the pancreas and bile ducts.
An endoscopic procedure used in the assessment and treatment of selected conditions affecting the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts.
In your first visit, we listen to your symptoms, assess your condition, explain your options, run necessary tests, and guide your next steps.
We discuss the possible causes and explain the options clearly.
If tests are required, we recommend investigations based on your individual situation.
You leave knowing what happens next.
Screening can help identify colorectal polyps or cancer before symptoms develop. The appropriate screening method and timing depend on factors such as your age, personal medical history and family history.
For individuals at average risk, colorectal cancer screening in Singapore is generally recommended from the age of 50. Those with certain risk factors may be advised to begin screening earlier.
You do not need to know which test or procedure you require before seeing a gastroenterologist.
If you have persistent or recurring digestive symptoms, a consultation allows your doctor to understand your concerns and medical history, assess your symptoms and discuss whether further investigation may be appropriate.
