Gastroenterology is the field of medicine specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive diseases and disorders. Because gastroenterology is a sub-specialty of internal medicine, gastroenterologists are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Specifically, our physicians at Wake Internal Medicine & Pediatrics specialize in gastroenterology to assist with your digestive health needs.
In particular, gastroenterology focuses on diseases and disorders of the digestive tract, which many might not know includes organs from the mouth all the way to the anus. Because gastroenterology covers a good portion of the body, there are many different conditions and diseases that the specialty can treat. Here are a few conditions that can be treated by gastroenterology:
- Colitis
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Hemorrhoids
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Celiac disease
- Gallbladder disease
- Crohn’s disease
- Hepatitis /liver disease
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- Pancreas disease
- Swallowing trouble
- Ulcers
- Nausea
What does good digestive health look like?
Digestive health is important for your body’s ability to function properly. In fact, a healthy digestive system allows the body to absorb nutrients efficiently and adequately enough for the body to produce the energy it needs from food. Intestinal motility and good immune system function are also important factors of a healthy digestive system. Furthermore, maintaining a balanced microbiota is also an indication of healthy digestive functioning. Because of this, a balanced and healthy diet is one of the best ways to keep your digestive health in check. As a result, people who are able to maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are significantly more likely to have a healthy digestive system.
For more information on Wake Internal Medicine & Pediatrics and the medical services we provide, contact us today