Maintaining a healthy digestive system is essential for overall well-being. The gut is not only responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients but also plays a key role in immune function, energy regulation, and even mood. Digestive issues can affect daily life, causing discomfort, fatigue, reduced productivity, and even anxiety about eating or social situations.
A gut health doctor is a specialist who helps diagnose, manage, and treat a wide range of digestive conditions. Many people experience symptoms such as bloating, irregular bowel movements, abdominal discomfort, or persistent heartburn. Recognising when to seek professional care is crucial, as early intervention can prevent complications, improve comfort, and support long-term gut health.
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Definition of IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder that affects the normal movement and function of the intestines. While it does not cause permanent damage, it can significantly impact quality of life. IBS is a common reason patients consult a gut health doctor in Sydney.
Triggers
IBS symptoms can be triggered or worsened by stress, dietary choices, hormonal changes, and even certain medications. Identifying triggers is a key part of management, as personalised adjustments can reduce symptom frequency. Monitoring patterns can help improve treatment.
Common symptoms
People with IBS often report abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation. Symptoms can fluctuate and may appear after eating certain foods or during periods of stress. Some patients notice alternating diarrhoea and constipation, making daily planning challenging.
Treatment approaches
Management may include dietary changes like increasing fibre, reducing FODMAP foods, or avoiding irritants. Stress management, lifestyle adjustments, and medications can also help. A gut health doctor in Sydney combines these strategies to support gut function and daily comfort.
How is acid reflux managed?
Definition
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, irritating its lining and causing discomfort. It is a common digestive problem that can affect people of all ages.
Lifestyle factors
Dietary choices, body weight, alcohol consumption, smoking, and sleeping position can all influence the severity of reflux. Adjustments in these areas are often the first line of management.
Symptoms
Patients may experience a burning sensation in the chest, regurgitation of food, and difficulty swallowing. Symptoms are often worse after large meals, lying down, or bending over.
Medical intervention
A gut health doctor in Sydney may recommend tests like endoscopy or pH monitoring and prescribe medications. Early intervention can potentially prevent complications and improve comfort.
What causes chronic diarrhoea?
Definition
Chronic diarrhoea is characterised by loose, watery stools lasting for several weeks or longer. It is important to distinguish temporary diarrhoea from chronic conditions that require medical assessment.
Health risks
If untreated, chronic diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, weight loss, and nutrient deficiencies. These digestive complications may affect overall health and daily functioning.
Common causes
Persistent diarrhoea can result from infections, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, or food intolerances. Less common causes include malabsorption disorders and certain medications.
Management
Treatment involves identifying the cause through tests like stool analysis or blood work. A qualified gut health doctor in Sydney may suggest diet, hydration, and medications to manage
symptoms.
Why does bloating occur?
Definition
Bloating is a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen. It can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, affecting day-to-day activities and overall quality of life.
Impact on daily life
Persistent bloating can affect more than just a person’s appetite; it can also disrupt sleep, cause embarrassment, and reduce overall confidence in social settings.
Causes
Common causes include excess intestinal gas, constipation, food intolerances, and underlying digestive disorders such as IBS or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.
Specialist care
A gut doctor can identify dietary triggers, run tests, and recommend diet changes, probiotics, or medications. Early assessment helps manage symptoms and improve comfort.
How are inflammatory bowel diseases treated?
Definition
Inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. They require ongoing monitoring and specialised care.
Diagnosis
Blood tests, colonoscopy, imaging studies, and stool analysis are used to confirm the presence and severity of the disease. Accurate diagnosis allows personalised treatment planning.
Symptoms
Patients may experience abdominal pain, diarrhoea, blood in stool, fatigue, and unintended weight loss. These symptoms often fluctuate and can lead to periods of flare-ups and remission.
Treatment
Treatment may include medications, dietary changes, or surgery if required. A gut health doctor offers ongoing care to manage flares, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.
FAQs
It is advisable to consult a specialist if symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, are worsening, or interfere with daily life. Early consultation can help prevent complications.
Yes. Stress can affect gut motility and sensitivity, making symptoms worse. Management often includes relaxation techniques alongside dietary and medical interventions.
While diet plays a significant role, many conditions require a combination of lifestyle, medical management, and specialist guidance to improve symptoms.
Depending on symptoms, tests can include blood work, stool analysis, imaging, endoscopy, or colonoscopy. The choice of test depends on the suspected condition.
Take charge of your gut health
Recognising and addressing digestive issues early is essential for long-term well-being. Consulting a gastroenterologist in Sydney ensures patients receive professional assessment, personalised guidance, and effective management strategies.
Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, chronic diarrhoea, bloating, and inflammatory bowel disease can all be managed more successfully with specialist care. Early intervention improves comfort, prevents complications, and supports overall digestive health.
MEET DR. SUHIRDAN
Interventional Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist
Bsc (Med) | M.B.B.S. (Hons) | FRACP
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