Pediatric gastroenterologist

What you need to know about an appointment with a gastroenterologist

• When to contact a gastroenterologist?

  It is recommended to consult a pediatric gastroenterologist if the following symptoms bother the child:

  • Abdominal pain, especially after eating;
  • Weight loss or sudden weight gain;
  • Appetite disturbance;
  • Bitter taste in the mouth;
  • Frequent belching and heartburn;
  • Nausea, vomiting;
  • Flatulence and accumulation of gases;
  • Fasteners;
  • The appearance of blood in the stool.
• When are preventive consultations necessary?

  It is advisable to undergo a routine examination by a pediatric gastroenterologist once a year, even if there are no symptoms or digestive disorders.

  Some children belong to the group of increased risk for the development of pathologies of the digestive system. Therefore, it is worth showing them to a children's gastroenterologist 2-3 times a year for tests. These are babies who:

  1. Have serious chronic diseases - diabetes, metabolic disorders, etc.;
  2. Have a large body weight or obesity;
  3. Medicines are regularly taken according to medical indications.
• What does a pediatric gastroenterologist do during the initial consultation?

  During the initial consultation, a gastroenterologist:

  • Examines complaints and medical history;
  • Conducts an initial examination of the child, paying special attention to the examination of the oral cavity, palpation of the abdomen, etc.;
  • Advises the patient about his condition;
  • Assigns additional examinations;
  • Provides nutrition recommendations;
  • Issues a doctor's advisory opinion.

  After studying the symptoms and medical history, the doctor can make a preliminary diagnosis. To clarify it, a pediatric gastroenterologist can prescribe tests, ultrasound and other studies.

  If the child suffers from pain or other symptoms of the disease, the doctor will immediately select treatment to alleviate his condition.