 Gastroenterology
In case of complaints such as abdominal pain, reflux or blood in the stool, the doctor investigates the cause using ultrasound or endoscopic examination. Based on the findings, treatment is started, either with medication or via rectoscopy or coloscopy if needed.
Immediate support for acute problems
Do you need urgent medical assistance? Our secretariat can be reached at +32 32 16 98 47.Even with a busy schedule, we always reserve space for urgent cases. Your health is our top priority.
High-level medical expertise
Our team of doctors is highly trained and has years of practical experience. With us, you are assured of professional and reliable care.
What investigations are carried out within gastroenterology?
At Medical Centre, we perform various investigations to accurately assess gastrointestinal symptoms. Which investigations are necessary is determined based on your symptoms, medical history and risk factors. Each patient is approached individually, with attention to comfort, clear explanations and reassurance.Are you experiencing persistent or worrying symptoms? Feel free to contact us; we will listen and advise you expertly.
Anamnesis
During the intake interview, the doctor asks specific questions about complaints, medical history, current medication use and any hereditary conditions. In this way, a complete picture of the health situation emerges, enabling further diagnostics to be targeted.
Clinical research
During the consultation, the doctor performs a physical examination that identifies the general condition and any peculiarities. Based on these findings, it is determined what additional investigations are needed.
Lab tests
Through blood and urine samples, we gain insight into various parameters such as liver function, inflammation levels, blood count, sugar levels, thyroid function and - if necessary - hormones or specific antibodies. This helps to detect underlying disorders early.
Echo Abdomen
With an abdominal ultrasound, we image the organs in the abdominal cavity, including the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, bladder, spleen and pancreas. This can detect abnormalities such as cysts, stones or inflammation.
Coloscopy
During a colonoscopy, the doctor examines the entire course of the colon, and sometimes the last part of the small intestine, using an endoscope. This allows early detection of abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation or bleeding and treatment if necessary.
Gastroscopy
With a gastroscopy, the doctor examines the oesophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine with a thin flexible camera. This examination is suitable for complaints such as reflux, stomach pain or nausea. If necessary, tissue samples can be taken directly, for example to diagnose celiac disease or a Helicobacter pylori infection.
When is a gastroenterological examination needed?
Are you experiencing persistent upset stomach, heartburn, changes in bowel movements or unexplained weight loss? These may be indications of an underlying disorder of the digestive system.Timely assessment by a gastroenterologist is important to determine the cause and prevent serious complications. The following symptoms may warrant further investigation:
Complaints to the stomach - Heartburn, nausea or pain in the upper abdomen may indicate conditions such as reflux (GERD), gastritis or an ulcer.Bowel problems - Persistent diarrhoea, constipation or fluctuating bowel movements may indicate irritable bowel syndrome (PDS), chronic intestinal inflammation (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) or food intolerances.Rectal bleeding or anal complaints - Blood in the stool or pain during defecation can indicate haemorrhoids, polyps or, in rare cases, colon cancer.Unexplained weight loss or fatigue - This can occur due to impaired nutrient absorption, chronic inflammation or malignant processes in the gastrointestinal tract.Problems to liver or bile - Complaints such as jaundice, dark urine or pain in the right upper abdomen may indicate liver disease, gallstones or bile duct obstruction.Problems with swallowing (dysphagia) - Difficulty swallowing or the feeling that food gets stuck in the oesophagus can be caused by inflammation, stricture or tumour.Iron deficiency anaemia - Chronic blood loss through the digestive tract, often without obvious symptoms, can lead to iron deficiency and anaemia.Chronic abdominal pain - Prolonged abdominal pain with no obvious cause requires further gastroenterological examination.Food intolerances and malabsorption - Conditions such as celiac disease or lactose intolerance can cause digestive problems, weight loss and nutrient deficiencies.
Preventive action limits risks
Many gastrointestinal problems are easily treatable and can often be prevented with the right medical guidance and an appropriate lifestyle.It is therefore important not to ignore symptoms. In case of persistent symptoms or an increased risk, e.g. due to diet, stress or hereditary predisposition, timely gastroenterological examination is indicated. This way, problems can be detected early and further complications can be prevented.
Course of a gastroenterological consultation
1. Medical intake & Anamnesis
The consultation starts with a detailed interview. The doctor or nurse asks specifically about your symptoms, diet, lifestyle habits, medical history and any family conditions. This creates a complete picture of your digestive and general health.
2. Investigate
Depending on your symptoms, various investigations may follow, such as blood or stool tests, an ultrasound of the abdomen, or - if indicated - a keyhole examination such as a gastroscopy or coloscopy. These investigations help to identify underlying stomach, intestinal, liver or bile problems.
3. Discussion of the results
Afterwards, the results are carefully evaluated. The doctor discusses the findings, compares them with reference values and, if necessary, draws up a diagnosis and treatment proposal. You receive clear explanations, lifestyle advice if necessary, and - if necessary - a proposal for further follow-up or referral. The report is available afterwards in your medical file via the eHealth or CoZo platform.
Physical signs always deserve serious attention
Sometimes the body gives signals such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, changes in bowel movements or blood in the stools.These symptoms may indicate stomach or intestinal disorders. At Medical Centre, we examine them carefully and expertly to detect or rule out possible problems early on.
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