The digestive system and its diseases are the focus of the medical speciality known as gastroenterology. The esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, liver, and gallbladder are all parts of the digestive tract that gastroenterologists diagnose and treat. Years of school, demanding training, and a strong dedication to the discipline are needed to become a gastroenterologist. But is entering the field of gastroenterology challenging? Yes, it is the answer.
A four-year undergraduate degree program must be completed before applying to medical school, which lasts four years. Individuals must then attend a three-year internal medicine residency after graduating from medical school. A three-year gastroenterology fellowship is necessary after residency. Trainees in gastroenterology receive specific instruction in endoscopy, liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and other digestive system-related topics during this fellowship.
For fellowship places in gastroenterology, there is fierce competition. In 2020, there were 662 candidates for 444 gastroenterology fellowship places, according to the National Resident Matching Program. So, only two-thirds of candidates were successful in getting a fellowship spot.
The five digestive system disorders include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, and colon cancer. These and other digestive diseases can be diagnosed and treated by gastroenterologists.
It is crucial to make sure you have all of your medical records, including any pertinent test results or imaging studies, in case you need to consult a gastroenterologist. The gastroenterologist will examine you physically and inquire about your symptoms and medical history during your session. To aid with the diagnosis, they may also request additional tests or treatments, such as an endoscopy or colonoscopy.
Contrarily, endocrinologists are experts in the endocrine system and hormones. Endocrinologists concentrate on hormones and their impact on the body, while gastroenterologists deal with internal organs and metabolic processes. Diabetes, thyroid issues, and shortages in growth hormone are just a few of the problems that endocrinologists can identify and treat.
In conclusion, training to become a gastroenterologist is difficult and competitive. Colon cancer, GERD, IBD, IBS, and celiac disease are among the digestive system disorders that gastroenterologists diagnose and treat. It is imperative to have all medical documents on hand and be ready to explain symptoms and medical history before consulting a gastroenterologist. Contrarily, endocrinologists are experts in the endocrine system and hormones. In general, there are numerous distinct kinds of doctors, each with a certain field of specialization.