8 Things You Should Know About Digestive Health
Gastroenterology specialists in Kolkata are medical marvels, medical specialists trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the digestive system. This includes the stomach, small and large intestines (colon), rectum, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts. They provide care for a wide range of issues, including abdominal pain, acid reflux (GERD), ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, colitis, celiac disease, hepatitis B and C, pancreatitis, constipation, and chronic diarrhea. If you’re searching for a gastroenterologist near me in Kolkata, it’s important to choose someone with the right expertise to accurately diagnose and manage your condition with personalized care. These specialists play a crucial role in maintaining your digestive health. From performing colon cancer screenings to identifying early signs of gastrointestinal diseases, their work helps detect and manage problems before they become more serious. Gastroenterologists also offer practical guidance on diet and lifestyle changes to support a healthier gut. Visiting a GI doctor can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few things your gastroenterologist wants you to know before your next appointment. 1. A Gastroenterologist Wishes to Help You Feel Better Gastrointestinal problems can change a lot of things, such as how much energy you have and how sure you are of yourself. Gastroenterologists are here to find out what’s causing your pain and come up with a treatment plan that not only helps but also makes your life better. Your comfort is always the priority. 2. No Symptom Is Too Small Digestive issues often present in subtle ways, and sometimes even serious conditions can start with mild symptoms. That’s why no concern is too small to discuss. A qualified gastroenterology specialist in Kolkata will take every symptom seriously because even minor digestive troubles can disrupt your routine, comfort, and overall well-being. 3. We’re Experts in All Things Digestive Gastroenterologists undergo years of specialized training to diagnose and treat everything from common stomach issues to complex conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Whether it’s a minor concern or a chronic disorder, you can trust that you are in capable, experienced hands. 4. Treatment Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All There’s often more than one way to manage a digestive issue. That’s why we tailor treatment plans to fit your lifestyle, preferences, and medical needs. Together, we’ll find an approach that’s not only effective but also practical for your daily life. 5. We’re Here to Support Your Health Goals The digestive system plays a vital role in how your body absorbs nutrients. A skilled gastroenterologist in Kolkata is well-equipped to guide you on diet and nutrition. We can create a personalized plan to help you live healthier, whether you are trying to manage a condition, boost vitamin levels, or adjust your weight. Nutritional advice is often a key part of our treatment approach. 6. We Understand Food Intolerances—and How to Manage Them If you suspect a food intolerance, like gluten or lactose, we can help identify the cause and guide you through the next steps. From ensuring proper nutrition to offering practical tips for Grocery shopping and meal planning, we will help you avoid symptoms and feel confident in your food choices. 7. Nothing You Say Will Surprise Us Gastroenterologists have years of experience handling a wide range of digestive issues—nothing is too awkward or embarrassing. Whether it’s rectal pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits, your honesty aids us in identifying the underlying issue and delivering optimal care. 8. Screenings Can Be Lifesaving Early identification of colon cancer can lead to much better outcomes. While there are several ways to screen for abnormalities, colonoscopy remains the most reliable method, allowing us to detect and often treat issues in a single procedure. Talk to your GI doctor about when to begin regular screenings. Prioritize Your Gut Health, Get Started Today We at LivGastro are dedicated to delivering world-class gastrointestinal care, combining expert clinical experience with the latest advancements in digestive health. Our team is actively involved in continuous research to make sure patients benefit from the most up-to-date and effective GI treatments available. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or seeking answers to new symptoms, we’re here to help with compassionate, personalized care. If you’re searching for a trusted gastroenterologist in Kolkata near me, our specialists are here to support you. To schedule an appointment with our experienced gastroenterologist, contact the office closest to you or use our easy and convenient online request form. Your digestive health matters—and you can count on us for continuous support from start to finish.
GERD: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
What is GERD? GERD, which stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, often called Acid Reflux, is a long-term disease condition where stomach content (especially acidic content) refluxes or comes back to the mouth via the esophagus or the food tube, giving rise to heartburn, acidic taste in the mouth, chest pain, and even breathing problems among many. However, studies reveal that symptoms associated with GERD are more common (20 – 25%) among people living in Western countries (such as the U.K.) as compared to those belonging to Asian countries (such as Malaysia), where it is limited to 10 – 15%. What are the GERD symptoms? The most common symptoms of GERD include HEARTBURN (even though it has nothing to do with the heart), strong acidic taste in the mouth, sore throat, swallowing problem, high rate of salivation, and coughing. Repeated GERD episodes often cause injury to the esophagus, resulting in: Reflux esophagitis – Necrosis (death of local cells) of esophageal epithelium, causing ulcers close to the connection between the stomach and the esophagus Esophageal strictures – Narrowing of the esophagus caused by reflux-induced inflammation Barrett’s esophagus – Intestinal metaplasia (changes of the epithelial cells from squamous to intestinal columnar epithelium) of the distal esophagus Esophageal adenocarcinoma – A type of cancer. Even though some people claim GERD causes sinusitis, recurrent ear infection, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, these have not been medically established so far. What causes GERD? Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is primarily caused by the failure of the Lower Esophageal sphincter valve, thus allowing a part of the acidic stomach contents to travel back to the esophagus, creating all the issues stated above. However, some of the following factors also contribute to the onset of GERD: Obesity – Increasing BMI is often associated with GERD to a large extent. With more than 2,000 people with symptomatic reflux disease, it has been proven that 13% of changes in esophageal acid exposure are attributable to changes in BMI. Hiatal Hernia increases the likelihood of GERD on account of mechanical and motility factors. Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, which can be found in increased gastric acidity due to gastrin production. High blood calcium levels can also heighten gastrin production, giving rise to higher acidity. Scleroderma and systemic sclerosis may cause esophageal dysmotility. Prednisolone (High consumption rate). Visceroptosis or Glenerd Syndrome, in which the stomach has gone down in the abdomen, upsetting the motility and acid secretion of the stomach. How is GERD diagnosed? Diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease is primarily based on the symptoms presented by the patient, as well as the following tests and observations. A test to monitor the amount of acid in your esophagus – Ambulatory acid (pH) probe tests use a device to measure acid for 24 hours. The device identifies when, and for how long, stomach acid regurgitates into your esophagus. One type of monitor is a thin, flexible tube (catheter) that’s threaded through your nose into your esophagus. The tube connects to a small computer that you wear around your waist or with a strap over your shoulder. Another type is a clip that’s placed in your esophagus during endoscopy. The probe transmits a signal, also to a small computer that you wear. After about two days, the probe falls off to be passed in your stool. Your doctor may ask that you stop taking GERD medications to prepare for this test. If you have GERD and you need surgery, you may also have other tests, such as: ■ An X-ray of your upper digestive system. Sometimes called a barium swallow or upper GI series, this procedure involves drinking a chalky liquid that coats and fills the inside lining of your digestive tract. Then X-rays are taken of your upper digestive tract. The coating allows your doctor to see a silhouette of your esophagus, stomach, and upper intestine (duodenum). ■ A flexible tube to look inside your esophagus. Endoscopy is a way to visually examine the inside of your esophagus and stomach. During endoscopy, your doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera (endoscope) down your throat. Your doctor may also use an endoscopy to collect a sample of tissue (biopsy) for further testing. Endoscopy is useful in looking for complications of reflux, such as Barrett’s esophagus. ■ A test to measure the movement of the esophagus. Esophageal motility testing (manometry) measures movement and pressure in the esophagus. The test involves placing a catheter through your nose and into your esophagus. What are the modes of Treatment for GERD? Treatment for GERD usually begins with over-the-counter medications that control acid. If you do not find relief within a few weeks, your doctor may recommend other treatments, including medications and surgery. Over-the-counter treatments that may help control GERD symptoms include: ■ Antacids that neutralize stomach acid. Antacids, such as Maalox, Mylanta, Gelusil, Gaviscon, Rolaids, and Tums, may provide quick relief. But antacids alone won’t heal an inflamed esophagus damaged by stomach acid. Overuse of some antacids can cause side effects, such as diarrhea or constipation. ■ Medications to reduce acid production. Called H-2-receptor blockers, these medications include cimetidine (Tagamet HB), famotidine (Pepcid AC), nizatidine (Axid AR), or ranitidine (Zantac). H-2-receptor blockers don’t act as quickly as antacids do, but they provide longer relief and may decrease acid production from the stomach for up to 12 hours. Stronger versions of these medications are available in prescription form. ■ Medications that block acid production and heal the esophagus. Proton pump inhibitors are stronger blockers of acid production than are H-2-receptor blockers and allow time for damaged esophageal tissue to heal. Over-the-counter proton pump inhibitors include lansoprazole (Prevacid 24 HR) and omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid OTC). Postscript: GERD is best controlled by leading a healthy lifestyle, reducing or cutting down alcohol consumption, and also giving up smoking for good. Over and above, consumption of fried and/or fatty food should be eliminated. And as a last reminder – Do not indulge in drinking Champagne.
Indigestion: Symptoms, Causes, Diet & Treatments
With the wrong diet, no medicine can help. With the right diet, no medicine is necessary – Confucius. Indeed, the famed Chinese philosopher most likely had indigestion in his mind when he delivered that sermon. People usually suffer from indigestion when consuming unhealthy food that the stomach fails to digest. The result: uncomfortable feeling in the upper abdomen, pain, fullness, bloating, and nausea. Some also suffer from GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) along with indigestion, while doctors debate whether indigestion causes GERD or GERD causes indigestion, even though GERD is mostly caused by failure of the esophageal sphincter valve. What actually causes Indigestion To be precise, indigestion has many causes that include disease conditions, side effects of certain medications, and an unhealthy lifestyle. Disease conditions include: ■ Ulcers ■ GERD ■ Gastroparesis (a condition when the stomach fails to empty itself appropriately; mostly occurring in people with diabetes) ■ Stomach infection ■ IBS ■ Chronic Pancreatitis ■ Thyroid problem ■ Malignant growth in the stomach (rather rare) ■ Pregnancy (Though not a disease condition) Side effects of certain medications include: ■ Aspirin and sundry other painkillers, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and naproxen. ■ Estrogen and oral contraceptives ■ Steroid medications ■ Some antibiotics ■ Thyroid medications Leading an unhealthy lifestyle, such as the following, also causes chronic indigestion: ■ Gluttony ■ Consuming high-fat food or spicy food ■ Eating late-night dinner ■ Alcoholism ■ Chain smoking ■ Lack of physical exercise Incidentally, some people have persistent indigestion that is unrelated to any of the above conditions and so are termed as Functional, or Non-ulcer dyspepsia. How to Prevent Indigestion Even though we are well acquainted with the adage that proclaims “Prevention is better than cure”, very few of us are aware of what actually prevents indigestion. However, obeying the following rules will help prevent indigestion and its accompanying uneasiness and discomfort. Instead of eating three heavy meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner), eat many smaller meals per day so that the digestive power of the stomach is not over-stressed. Stay away from food items that have given rise to indigestion in the past. Eat slowly; do not gulp. Cut down or avoid foods/beverages that contain caffeine. If stress triggers indigestion (according to experience), learn how to manage stress that includes Yoga or the Biofeedback technique. Cut back on alcohol consumption. Don’t go to bed immediately after dinner. Treatment of Indigestion When indigestion is caused by excessive stomach acid, ulcers, GERD, esophagitis, or gastritis, your doctor is likely to prescribe potent acid blockers for immediate relief that include: ■ Omeprazole ■ Lansoprazole ■ Rabeprazole ■ Pantoprazole ■ Esomeprazole A grouping of antibiotics as well as acid blockers may be prescribed for longer periods if the underlying cause is related to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). If, on the other hand, the underlying cause is found to be gastroparesis, a pro-motility drug such as Metoclopramide is often prescribed. If, however, the underlying cause of indigestion is related to depression or anxiety, antidepressants are routinely prescribed. Postscript Occasional bouts of indigestion and accompanying discomfort are mostly cured without the use of prescription medicine, but persistent spells of indigestion or chronic dyspepsia need thorough investigation and prolonged treatment by a gastroenterologist.
Gallstones: Types, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Clinically speaking, gallstones are not stones such as rocks or minerals but stone-like hard deposits made of cholesterol, calcium salt, or bilirubin that are often found within the gallbladder, which is a small organ that stores bile. However, these stone-like substances may vary in volume, from as tiny as a grain of salt to as large as an apricot. To be precise, certain components in bile often crystallize and harden, thus forming gallstones. According to Harvard Health Publications, 80% of gallstones are made of cholesterol, while the remaining 20% consist of calcium salts and bilirubin that are known as Pigment Stones. Types of Gallstones As earlier said, gallstones are mostly made of cholesterol, as well as a few other substances that are outlined below. Cholesterol Stones: Gallstones often form within the gallbladder when the liver tends to secrete excessive amounts of cholesterol in the bile that it cannot break down or dissolve, and as a result, hard stone-like substances develop over time. Bilirubin originated from stones: Bilirubin is a byproduct that is formed while the liver routinely breaks down old red blood cells. However, due to certain disease conditions such as cirrhosis of the liver, as well as a few blood disorders, the liver tends to produce more bilirubin than is good for the body. Hard substances resembling stones form when the gallbladder fails to break down the excess bilirubin. These are often termed as Pigmented Stones. Symptoms of Gallstone According to the American College of Gastroenterology, 80% of people having gallstone do not have any symptoms at all and so are known as Silent Gallstones. However, others have symptoms that include pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. The pain may extend to the right shoulder or the shoulder blade. Besides, gallstones also have the following symptoms: ■ Fever ■ Yellowish tint in the skin or the eyes (as in jaundice) ■ Nausea or queasiness ■ Clay-colored stool. Gallbladder Attack Excessive and unbearable gallstone/gallbladder pain is medically termed a gallbladder attack. In most cases, this may last up to 2 or more hours. However, the gallstones are not actually responsible for the excruciating pain. It happens when the gallstones tend to arrest the movement of the bile from the gallbladder. Nevertheless, the ‘attack’ is preceded by the following three stages that are easy to trail. Stage I: Gallstones form within the gallbladder. It is a painless stage. Stage-II: Gallbladder pain gradually develops but does not continue for long hours. However, the condition exacerbates with the consumption of fatty and fried food, while sundry symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, and indigestion appear on the scene. Stage-III: Medical emergency! Gallstones block the duct while bile moves from the gallbladder. Symptoms include severe stomach/back pain, high temperature, and chills. Gallstone Diagnosis Apart from physical examination, such as checking the color of the skin and the eyes, the attending physician will also ask for diagnostic tests that include: Ultrasound that provides the most convincing proof of gallstone/gallstones within the gallbladder. An abdominal CT scan will provide a picture of the patient’s liver and surrounding areas. A gallbladder radionuclide scan is the most effective diagnostic test for gallstones, which takes around an hour to complete. The test involves the injection of a radioactive substance into the patient’s veins that travels through the blood and reaches the liver and the gallbladder, immediately detecting any infection or blockage in these organs. Blood Tests Will reveal the amount of bilirubin in the blood and help the process of diagnosis. Treatment for Gallstone Surgery – Among some of the most sure-shot methods of gallstone treatment involves removal of the source, i.e., the gallbladder itself, through laparoscopic surgery. However, general anesthesia is required for this surgery, while the surgeon will make three or four incisions on the abdomen. A lighted device will be inserted into the abdomen to locate the gallbladder, while appropriate surgical instruments will be sent through the other incisions to remove the gallbladder. In most cases, the patient goes home the same day or the day after. Medication – Drugs that dissolve gallstones caused by cholesterol are an option if surgery is not recommended. These medications may take several years to remove the gallstones.
Maldigestion and Malabsorption—How It Can Affect You Despite Eating Well Clone
As a leading gastroenterology clinic in Kolkata, we at Livgastro widely diagnose cases where patients come with a complaint of frequent diarrhoea, and after diagnosis, it is revealed they have Maldigestion and Malabsorption. This is a common case among older patients over 60. This leads to malnutrition. Fancy, similar-sounding medical names can be confusing, and when they all end up in a stomach bug, it is even tougher to tell them apart. That’s the case of Malabsorption and Maldigestion. Whether you have heard of them or have no clue what they mean, here’s an insight from the desk of the best gastroenterologist in West Bengal to keep you aware that they are not the same thing, and they can affect you even if you eat a healthy and balanced diet. ■ Maldigestion: The inability of the small intestine to properly complete the luminal phase of digestion to break down food particles into enzymes. ■ Malabsorption: The inability of the small intestine to properly complete the mucosal phase and absorb nutrients from food into the bloodstream—often as a consequence of maldigestion. Although they can occur separately, maldigestion and malabsorption are frequently interdependent syndromes. Normal weakness, frequent digestive problems, and unexplained weight loss are some of the key warning signs that your body is not absorbing the nutrients from the food you eat. Do not neglect these “minor” issues. They can be closely related to more serious conditions like cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, or Crohn’s disease. Stay aware. Stay healthy. You can consult the best gastroenterologist in West Bengal right here at LivGastro. We offer an all-encompassing solution for diagnosis, treatment, and integrative liver gastro care. Eating Well and Nutrition—How Gut Health Impacts Digestion and Every Other Bodily Function Our gut health impacts every vital organ and function of the body. The pancreas, liver, and intestines are central to the digestive process and must work in sync. But when there is a disruption in this balance, such as the insufficiency of digestive enzymes in the body or prolonged gastrointestinal motility disturbances, it may be a precursor to maldigestion and malabsorption. You don’t need to be the best gastroenterologist in West Bengal to know how our body works like a machine. Just like any other mechanical process, our body needs an energy source—that’s the food we eat. Now, imagine if there were a malfunction in a mechanical part; the machine would stop working properly despite having an adequate supply of energy. That is exactly how it works for our digestive system. Dr Vijay Kumar Rai is the top stomach pain doctor in Eastern Metropolitan Bypass who works with Integrative treatment plans and navigates different aspects of gut health and how they impact individuals developing maldigestion and malabsorption. In many cases, people have difficulty with specific types of foods, like carbohydrates, intolerance of gluten, or excessive alcohol intake, that may interfere with enzyme activity or even cause cellular damage to the small intestine lining. Bacterial Malabsorption and Bile Acid Malabsorption (BAM) are also included in the aetiology. Maldigestion and Malabsorption Treatment in Kolkata Many people follow the drill of keeping over-the-counter medications in their pocket and self-treat their symptoms. Medication is not always the best answer. Below is a basic layout of our gastroenterology treatment in Kolkata for maldigestion and malabsorption. ■ Diagnosis: Understanding the underlying cause of madigestion and malabsorption is the first stage of treatment. We carry out tests like Serological (blood) tests and stool or faecal tests for exocrine pancreatic functions or evidence of steatorrhea (fat malabsorption). ■ Medical Treatment: Treating maldigestion and malabsorption has to go beyond medications. We favour integrative approaches to address each problem down to its root: Dietary modification is used to manage any food intolerances that cause the problem, particularly in cases of carbohydrate or protein malabsorption. ■ Any deficiency of enzymes or vitamins has to be supplemented to make up for them ■ Bile acid sequestrants are prescribed for Bile Acid Malabsorption (BAM) ■ Stomach infections are treated with antibiotics ■ Lifestyle Management: Sometimes lifestyle changes, eating habits, a combination of foods, and alcohol intake are vital factors that determine the treatment. Remember that treating malnutrition caused by either or both of maldigestion or malabsorption involves more than writing a prescription. At Livgastro, we ensure that each patient receives clear, personalised plans that combine medical treatment with nutrition guidance. In each case, the aim is not just to correct deficiencies but to restore strength, energy, and quality of life. Consult the Best Gastroenterologist in Kolkata for Maldigestion and Malabsorption Some of the common foods, like roti with aloo sabzi, pasta, and natural sugarcane sugars, cow milk, are some of the most common sources of carbs. In cases of deficient carbohydrate assimilation, bacteria can ferment in the small intestine, which may lead to malabsorption in the digestive process. So what happens when it does? You feel frequent bloating, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. If you have it multiple times in short intervals, this is a good time to see a doctor. We at LivGastro have Dr Vijay Kmr. Rai and some of the best stomach pain doctors in Eastern Metropolitan Bypass are here with us to give you personalised support through every stage of healthcare. Diagnosing persistent symptoms is a vital part of effective treatments and our integrative liver gastro care. It gives doctors the time and scope to isolate the specific underlying issues of the ailment and prevent it from growing. Therefore, timely consultation with a specialist can make all the difference.