About this procedure
A gastroenterology consultation can help with recurring upper abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating, bowel changes and questions about liver, gallbladder or pancreatic disorders. The clinician assesses symptoms, medicines, relevant risks and previous investigations to agree on appropriate next steps.
Clinical features
Describe how symptoms relate to food, whether weight has changed and whether bleeding, fever or night-time symptoms are present. Bring previous blood tests, ultrasound, gastroscopy or colonoscopy reports and a list of medication if available. For a review appointment, bring results of recently requested tests.
Important differences and warning signs
Not everyone needs gastroscopy, ultrasound or testing for Helicobacter pylori. The doctor considers which investigations are likely to affect care. The availability of an investigation in a clinic price list does not establish that the consulting gastroenterologist personally performs it.
Assessment and individual care
Following assessment, the clinician may discuss eating habits, medication choices, further tests, monitoring or referral. Avoid starting antibiotics, pancreatic enzymes or long-term acid-suppressing treatment solely because of unexplained abdominal symptoms. Fees should be checked against the current clinic price list.
Related information: Upper abdominal pain; Heartburn and acid regurgitation.
Signs and symptoms
- Recurring upper abdominal discomfort, heartburn, nausea, bloating or pain after meals.
- Diarrhoea, constipation, altered bowel habits or abnormal liver tests.
- Review of an existing digestive diagnosis, investigations or ongoing treatment.
Diagnosis and tests
A history and review of previous tests guides whether laboratory investigations, H. pylori testing, imaging or endoscopy is needed. There is no single mandatory test package.
Care and treatment approaches
The next steps are individual: advice, treatment after diagnosis, review of results or referral. Consultation costs depend on the current published clinic price list.
When to seek urgent care
Vomiting blood, black tarry stool, sudden severe abdominal pain, jaundice with fever, confusion or severe dehydration require emergency medical attention. Call 103.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need gastroscopy before my first appointment?
Not necessarily. The doctor first assesses the symptoms and indications for investigations.
What should I bring to a gastroenterology consultation?
Bring previous test results, investigation reports, a medication list and a brief history of your symptoms.
Can I return to discuss test results?
Yes. At a follow-up consultation the clinician can interpret the results and adjust the plan as appropriate.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
