Gastroenterology is a vital element of modern medicine. Without it, many suffering from digestive issues would have a significantly lower quality of life – as well as a decreased life expectancy, depending on their condition. In this guide to finding a private gastroenterologist, we’ll go over exactly what a gastroenterologist does, and why the benefits of going private can have a significant impact when it comes to digestive health issues.
What Does a Gastroenterologist Do?
Gastroenterologists deal with all medical issues and diseases related to the gastrointestinal and hepatological systems. The gastrointestinal system includes the stomach, esophagus, small and large intestines, and the rectum. The hepatological system includes the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Essentially, anything related to digestive health is dealt with by gastroenterologists.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s worth seeing a gastroenterologist to check what’s going on.
- Unintentional weight loss or loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Bloating
- Vomiting and nausea
- Incontinence
- Continuous fatigue
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Black or bloodstained stool
Of course, the above isn’t an extensive list of symptoms that can be related to gastrointestinal disorders. In fact, some symptoms may not immediately appear to be linked to potential issues in your digestive system. Some conditions, such as coeliac disease, can have inflammatory symptoms in other areas of the body. This can lead to the emergence of alternative symptoms such as eczema or acne, joint pain, and even potential infertility.
This is why the work of gastroenterologists is so essential in diagnosing and treating these medical conditions.
Why Choose a Private Gastroenterologist?
We understand that digestive issues can have a huge impact on daily life. They can cause stress, pain, and drastically limit the things you are able to do on a day-to-day basis. Furthermore, any anxiety you may have surrounding your digestive health can further expedite any internal issues. This is why dealing with a private gastroenterologist has many benefits when it comes to treating the symptoms and conditions related to digestive health issues.
- A less stressful experience, which can reduce the severity of some symptoms.
It’s commonly known that the “brain-gut” connection is an inextricably linked one. You know that uneasy feeling you get in the pit of your stomach when you’re feeling overwhelmingly nervous? It’s not imagined. Our emotions can actually wreak havoc on the physiology of the digestive system, leading to those unpleasant symptoms. When we feel anxious or stressed, our digestive system can suffer. Similarly, when we have digestive problems, we’re also more likely to become anxious as a result.
One of the reasons behind this is that both our gut and brain communicate with one another closely. Much like our brain, our gastrointestinal system is packed with neurons as part of the nervous system. These nerves send important signals between one another, along with the use of neurotransmitters – which are not only produced within the brain, but are also created in the gut, too. This is just one of the reasons that taking quality probiotics can actually help with your mental health.
- Much shorter waiting times for diagnosis, tests, and treatments.
While the NHS is undoubtedly a great system that allows everyone in the UK to access medical care wherever and whenever they need it, there are some limitations. One of the most profound limitations is perhaps the long waiting times. We all know just how much uncertainty and long waiting times can affect our levels of stress and anxiety. This stress can have a compound effect on the way our bodies and brains also perceive pain.
With private gastroenterologists, the waiting times for services – including everything from diagnosis, to treatments, procedures, and therapies – are considerably lower. This can work wonders in reassuring patients that their issue will be dealt with in a timely manner, rather than anxiously having to wait for updates about the NHS’s lengthy waiting lists.
- Get a second opinion on your medical condition.
While doctors do endeavour to provide the best of care at all times, those who are particularly rushed off their feet or stressed might not get it right first time. Due to understaffing in the NHS, doctors are consistently working longer hours within high pressure environments. This is why many might find reassurance in seeking out a second opinion regarding their gastroenterology results and digestive health symptoms.
- A holistic approach to digestive health.
At Digestive Health UK, we take a holistic approach to the field of gastroenterology. That is, we look at everything from a multidisciplinary perspective – rather than simply from just one angle. Doing this alongside our team of London-based experts means we’re able to pinpoint exactly how to help you and your health the very best we can. Rather than just dealing with your condition from one avenue of attack, we look deeper at the causation behind it. This links back to the stress aspect we mentioned earlier – alongside medications for certain conditions, we may also recommend complimentary therapies to speed up your recovery and treatment. This can involve anything from CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) to reduce anxiety, to hypnotherapy, creative activities and even acupuncture. This ensures you’re getting the very best possible treatment, and that we’re leaving no stone unturned.
London’s Best Private Gastroenterologist
If you’re looking for London’s best private gastroenterologist, you’ve come to the right place. Digestive Health UK is a private gastroenterology practice based at The London Gastroenterology Centre in Marylebone. Ran by Dr. Samed Sami and situated at 41 Welbeck Street, we are a top-rated clinic offering both face to face and remote consultations.
Dr. Sarmed Sami is an internationally recognised gastroenterologist who has worked within a variety of medical settings across the UK and USA. Holding an impressive array of awards from renowned medical bodies such as the British Society of Gastroenterology and the American College of Gastroenterology, Dr. Sami is undoubtedly one of the best in his field.
To book an appointment with our private gastroenterology clinic, simply get in touch with us via our contact page. Alternatively, you can give us a call on +442074 594918.
