Lower GI Disorders

The Lower Gastrointestinal (GI) tract is responsible for digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste. When disorders affect this part of the digestive system, they can cause discomfort, pain, and serious health issues. Many people suffer from lower GI disorders, but understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage these conditions effectively at Apollo Endoscopy, Laparoscopy & Robotic Obesity Centre, Mumbai.

We’ll explore common lower GI disorders and discuss how Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, a qualified GI specialist and the best endoscopist in Mumbai, can help diagnose and treat these conditions using advanced techniques like lower GI endoscopy and colonoscopy.

What Is the Lower GI Tract?

The lower GI tract includes the small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus. Its job is to absorb nutrients and eliminate waste. However, when disorders arise in this area, they can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, and more serious complications like blood in stools.

Many lower GI disorders require specific diagnostic tests like lower GI endoscopy or colonoscopy to determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Common Lower GI Disorders

Here are some of the most common lower GI disorders and the symptoms they cause:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a functional disorder that causes abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, or both). While the exact cause isn’t clear, stress and certain foods can trigger IBS symptoms.

A colonoscopy is often recommended to rule out more serious conditions, and experienced endoscopists can help identify the underlying cause of your symptoms with a comprehensive evaluation.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the intestines. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and weight loss. It’s a serious condition that requires ongoing treatment and monitoring.

Diagnosing Crohn’s disease usually involves a lower GI endoscopy, which helps visualize inflammation in the intestines. Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi employs advanced endoscopic techniques to provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment options.

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is another type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in the colon. Symptoms include bloody diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

A colonoscopy is critical in diagnosing and managing ulcerative colitis. This diagnostic tool allows doctors to closely examine the colon and recommend personalized treatment.

Diverticular Disease

Diverticulosis refers to the formation of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon walls. When these pouches become infected or inflamed, it’s called diverticulitis, which can cause severe pain and changes in bowel habits.

A colonoscopy helps assess the extent of diverticular disease and rule out other conditions. Endoscopic evaluation offers the best care for managing diverticular disease, especially under the guidance of skilled professionals like Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi.

Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that cause pain, itching, and bleeding. They are common, especially in people who strain during bowel movements or sit for long periods.

Tumors or Growth

Colonic tumours are abnormal growths in the colon, which can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). These tumours often do not cause symptoms in the early stages, which makes regular screening crucial. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and rectal bleeding.

Early detection through colonoscopy is vital, as it allows for the identification of tumours at a treatable stage. Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi and his team utilize advanced techniques to ensure accurate diagnosis and management of colonic tumours, offering a variety of treatment options ranging from minimally invasive procedures to surgical interventions, depending on the tumour’s nature and stage.

Colonic Polyps

Colonic polyps are small growths on the lining of the colon that can vary in size and type. While many polyps are benign, some can develop into colorectal cancer over time. Common types include adenomatous polyps, which have the potential to become cancerous, and hyperplastic polyps, which are usually harmless.

Regular screenings through colonoscopy are essential for detecting polyps early. During the procedure, any identified polyps can often be removed for further evaluation, significantly reducing the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi emphasizes the importance of these screenings to maintain gastrointestinal health and prevent complications.

In severe cases, a Lower GI endoscopy can be used to check for complications and ensure proper treatment. Minimally invasive solutions can effectively relieve haemorrhoid symptoms.

Symptoms to Watch For

Lower GI disorders can cause a range of symptoms, including:

If you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period, it’s important to see a specialist who can help diagnose and treat lower GI disorders through endoscopy and colonoscopy.

Why Endoscopy and Colonoscopy Are Important

Lower GI endoscopy and colonoscopy are essential tools in diagnosing lower GI disorders. These procedures allow doctors to see inside the intestines and identify any inflammation, polyps, ulcers, or other abnormalities.

Experienced endoscopists perform these procedures with precision, ensuring an accurate diagnosis for effective treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment for lower GI disorders depends on the diagnosis. Common treatments include:

Dietary Changes

For conditions like IBS, Crohn’s disease, and diverticular disease, dietary adjustments can help manage symptoms. Increasing fiber, avoiding trigger foods, and staying hydrated are often recommended.

Medications

Depending on the diagnosis, medications like anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, or pain relievers may be prescribed. Your treatment plan will be tailored based on your specific condition and symptoms.

Surgery

In severe cases, Surgery may be required to treat conditions like Crohn’s disease or diverticulitis. Leading specialists, including Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, offer minimally invasive surgical options that promote faster recovery and better outcomes.

When to Seek Help?

If you have persistent GI symptoms like abdominal pain, bloody stools, or unexplained weight loss, don’t wait to get help. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

Consult a GI specialist, Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, to get expert care through advanced techniques like endoscopy and colonoscopy. These procedures not only diagnose but also guide the treatment of complex GI conditions, ensuring you receive the most effective care.

Conclusion

Lower GI disorders can range from mild discomfort to serious conditions that affect your daily life. Whether you’re dealing with IBS, Crohn’s disease, or haemorrhoids, consulting an experienced specialist like Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi is crucial. With expertise in lower GI conditions he can offer accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans that help patients achieve relief and better health at Apollo Endoscopy, Laparoscopy & Robotic Obesity Centre, Mumbai.

If you're experiencing GI symptoms, don’t delay in seeking care. Book an appointment with Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, recognized as one of the best GI Specialist in Mumbai, to take control of your digestive health.