Reflux, bloating, altered bowel habit and abdominal discomfort are among the most frequent reasons adults see a physician, and the overwhelming majority have a manageable explanation. A smaller number do not. Distinguishing between them relies on which symptoms are present, how long they have been there, and whether any of the features that warrant prompt investigation are among them: bleeding, difficulty swallowing, unintended weight loss, anaemia, or a change in bowel habit that persists.
Where endoscopic examination is appropriate, it is used to answer a specific question rather than as a routine step. Upper endoscopy and colonoscopy both allow tissue samples to be taken and some conditions to be treated during the same procedure, which is often what turns an uncertain picture into a clear one.
What a consultation covers
- Acid reflux and persistent heartburn
- Peptic ulcer disease and H. pylori infection
- Irritable bowel syndrome and functional gut symptoms
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Chronic liver disease and abnormal liver blood tests
- Coeliac disease and malabsorption
- Investigation of anaemia, bleeding and unexplained weight loss
What to bring to your first appointment
- Any previous endoscopy or colonoscopy reports
- Recent blood tests, especially a full blood count and liver tests
- Your current medications, including antacids and painkillers
- A note of what you eat and whether symptoms follow meals