Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is the medical specialty focused on the recognition, investigation, treatment, and long-term care of diseases affecting the digestive system. This includes conditions of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas. The goal is to accurately identify the cause of digestive symptoms and to develop a personalized treatment and follow-up plan, involving other specialties when necessary.

When Should You See a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterology consultation is recommended whenever symptoms related to the digestive system occur, especially if they are persistent, recurrent, or negatively affect quality of life.

Common Symptoms

• Heartburn, acid regurgitation
• Bloating, excessive gas
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Alternating bowel habits
• Recurrent abdominal pain
• Post-meal fullness
• Nausea, general discomfort
• Bad breath of gastrointestinal origin

Warning (“Alarm”) Symptoms Requiring Prompt Evaluation

• Unintentional weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent vomiting
• Severe or nighttime abdominal pain
• Black or bloody stools
• Iron-deficiency anemia
• Jaundice
• Fever associated with digestive symptoms

How Does a Gastroenterology Examination Take Place?

Gastroenterology care begins with a specialist consultation.

During the visit:

• A detailed medical history is taken (nature and duration of symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, medications)
• A physical examination is performed
• The specialist determines whether further diagnostic testing is necessary

Evaluation does not always involve endoscopic (scoping) procedures. Diagnostic steps are based on medical indication and are carried out in a stepwise, individualized manner.

If a gastroscopy or colonoscopy is required, the procedure can also be performed under sedation or anesthesia.

Before sedation-based endoscopy, preparatory examinations are necessary. The treating physician provides detailed instructions.

Our Diagnostic Services for Digestive Disorders

Laboratory Tests

• Blood tests
• Urine analysis
• Stool tests

Imaging Diagnostics

• Abdominal ultrasound
• Abdominal CT
• CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)
• Small bowel CT

Endoscopic Examinations

Procedures are performed at the BEK–Endoexpert Endoscopy Laboratory.

• Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy)
• Colonoscopy

Functional and Specialized Gastroenterology Tests

Colorectal Cancer Screening from Stool Sample

• The M2-PK stool test supports early detection of colorectal tumors
• The method is more sensitive than simple fecal occult blood testing, as it detects an enzyme produced by tumor cells rather than blood

Helicobacter pylori Testing

This bacterium plays a role in the development of chronic gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, and certain gastric cancers.

Detection methods include:

• Stool sample testing
• Breath testing

The type of test is determined by the gastroenterology specialist.

H2 Breath Tests

Hydrogen breath testing is suitable for:

• Detecting lactose and fructose intolerance
• Evaluating suspected small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
• Assessing intestinal transit time

Food Allergy Testing

• IgE-based blood testing
• Supports the diagnosis of immediate-type food allergies
• Used in cases of rapid and severe symptom onset

Frequently Asked Questions – Gastroenterology

Is fasting required before a gastroenterology consultation?
Fasting is generally not required for the initial specialist consultation. However, certain diagnostic tests may require fasting, and specific instructions will be provided in advance.

Is endoscopy necessary in every case?
No. Diagnostic steps are individualized, and not all symptoms require endoscopic examination.

Are endoscopic procedures painful?
Procedures can be performed under sedation or anesthesia, minimizing discomfort.

How long does it take to receive results?
Laboratory and imaging results are typically available within a few days. Endoscopy reports are often provided immediately.

When is a follow-up visit necessary?
Follow-up is recommended to review results, modify treatment if needed, and at regular intervals in chronic conditions.

When is colorectal cancer screening recommended?
Screening is recommended from age 45–50 even in the absence of symptoms, as well as in cases of family history, persistent digestive symptoms, or unexplained anemia. The choice of screening method (stool testing or colonoscopy) is based on individual risk assessment.

When is colonoscopy indicated?
Colonoscopy is recommended as a screening test above age 45–50, and in cases of bloody stool, persistent bowel habit changes, iron-deficiency anemia, or family history of colorectal cancer. In addition to diagnosis, it also has a preventive role through the removal of polyps.

What is the difference between food allergy and food intolerance?
Food allergy is an immunological reaction that may cause rapid and potentially severe symptoms. Food intolerance is not immune-mediated; symptoms typically appear later and are usually milder (e.g., bloating, abdominal pain). Evaluation and management differ.

When is Helicobacter pylori testing recommended?
Testing is recommended in cases of persistent gastric symptoms, suspected ulcer, or recurrent gastritis. Detection is performed using stool or breath testing, and the method is determined by the specialist.
 

This description was reviewed by Dr. Pál Demeter, Chief Gastroenterologist.