Digestive Health Management - OSD Healthcare
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Our Digestive Health Clinic

With a multi-disciplinary team of experts, we provide state-of-the-art diagnostic tests and high-quality treatments tailored to individual needs, including non-surgical weight loss solutions. Beyond direct patient care, we are committed to advancing public and peer education, as well as leading clinical research to improve outcomes and foster innovation in digestive health.

Understanding Digestive Health

The digestive system, often called the gastrointestinal tract, breaks down food and absorbs nutrients. Stretching from the mouth to the anus, it involves various organs working together to fuel our body. But it’s not just about digestion; the health of this system impacts our overall well-being.

Our Gastroenterology Team

When to See a Doctor

The gut microbiota, a collection of diverse microbes living in our digestive tract, is central to the digestive process. Genetics, diet, and stress management significantly influence gut health. Processed foods and medications in modern life can disrupt this delicate balance.

The Digestive Health Clinic understands these complexities. We offer a comprehensive approach to diagnosing, treating, and preventing digestive diseases to provide the best care possible. Through advanced diagnostic tests and personalised treatment plans, our goal is optimal digestive health.

Recognising when to seek medical attention is crucial for maintaining digestive health. Persistent symptoms should not be ignored. Consulting with a gastroenterologist can provide a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment to address these issues.

Signs That Require Immediate Attention

Certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention due to their potential severity. Unexplained weight loss, for instance, can signal serious gastrointestinal issues and should be addressed promptly. Rectal bleeding, whether bright red or dark, is another critical symptom that necessitates an urgent visit to a gastroenterologist.

Other alarming signs include anaemia, low iron levels, difficulty swallowing, persistent abdominal pain, and vomiting. Recognising these serious digestive symptoms is crucial, as they may indicate life-threatening conditions requiring immediate medical attention.

See a doctor if you experience:

  • Heartburn
  • Abdominal pain
  • Changes in bowel habits
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Blood in stool
  • Concerns regarding weight

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Treatments offered by our Digestive Health Centre

Routine Check-Ups and Health Screening

Routine check-ups and health screening with a gastroenterologist can help maintaining optimal digestive health. These visits can help monitor potential digestive issues before they become severe, ensuring timely intervention and management, for example early treatment of colonic polyps that do not cause symptoms. For individuals with a family history of digestive disorders, these check-ups are particularly crucial for early detection and prevention.

Engaging in regular screenings and consultations can significantly improve digestive health outcomes. By staying proactive and vigilant, you can maintain a healthy digestive system and prevent the progression of potential disorders.

Medical Treatments and Interventions

Severe digestive disorders often require medical treatments and interventions. These range from over-the-counter remedies to prescription medications and, sometimes, surgical options.

A tailored approach guided by healthcare professionals ensures effective treatment.

Prescription Medications

Severe digestive disorders often require prescription medications. Stronger acid blockers, such as higher dose PPIs, reduce stomach acid production and relieve conditions like GERD. Prescription treatments include antibiotics for bacterial infections like Helicobacter pylori.

Working closely with healthcare providers to determine suitable prescription drugs is crucial for managing digestive conditions. These medications can significantly improve symptoms and enhance quality of life.

Surgical Options

When non-surgical treatments fail or there is intolerance of the medication, surgical interventions may be necessary. Anti-reflux surgery is available for treating severe GERD, offering long-term relief. Minimally invasive surgeries are preferred for their quicker recovery times and fewer complications.

Discussing treatment options with healthcare providers determines the best course of action for severe digestive conditions. Surgical interventions can be life-changing, providing significant relief and improving digestive health.

Non-surgical weight loss solutions

Non-surgical weight loss solutions are interventions designed to help individuals achieve weight loss without the need for invasive surgery. These options include medically supervised weight loss programs, prescription medications, lifestyle modifications, nutritional counselling, and minimally invasive procedures such as gastric balloon therapy or endoscopic treatments.

These solutions are often recommended for individuals with obesity or those struggling with overweight-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or metabolic syndrome. Non-surgical weight loss approaches aim to improve overall health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and enhance quality of life while promoting sustainable, long-term weight management.

Common Digestive Disorders treated by our Digestive Health Centre

GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid backs up into the oesophagus, leading to irritation. This happens when the lower oesophageal sphincter doesn’t close properly, allowing acid to escape. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is diagnosed when heartburn occurs more than twice a week, with symptoms like burning discomfort, bloating, and belching.

Reflux and heartburn, common issues, are often worsened by factors like hiatus hernia and H. pylori infections. Severe GERD can lead to serious conditions, requiring lifestyle changes and medical interventions.

IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is characterised by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. This disorder often starts in adolescence or early adulthood and can persist for decades before subsiding.

Managing IBS requires a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle and dietary changes, probiotics, and sometimes medication. Recognising symptoms early allows for tailoring an effective treatment plan to alleviate discomfort and improve quality of life.

Helicobacter Pylori Infections

Helicobacter pylori is the only bacteria capable of living in the acidic environment of the stomach. It significantly contributes to the development of stomach ulcers and can remain dormant for years. H. pylori infections are linked to an increased risk of stomach and colorectal cancers.

Diagnosis typically involves endoscopic stomach biopsies to culture the bacteria and perform antibiotic sensitivity testing. Eradicating H. pylori significantly reduces the risk of severe complications once diagnosed and treated.

Frequently Asked Questions

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