Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is the medical speciality dedicated to the study and treatment of disorders of the digestive system. It covers a wide range of pathologies affecting organs such as the stomach, intestines, liver and pancreas, and incorporates advanced diagnostic methods, such as endoscopy, physiological testing and ultrasound, for an in-depth understanding of complex digestive disorders.

At Alegria Medical Centre, we also focus on neurogastroenterology, which is a specialised field within gastroenterology that focuses on the complex interactions between the nervous system and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It involves the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders affecting the « brain-gut axis » – the bidirectional communication network between the brain, central nervous system, enteric nervous system (which governs the GI tract), and the microbiota.

Neurogastroenterology recognises that conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia or gastroparesis, chronic constipation or diarrhoea, oesophageal motility disorders, as well as chronic nausea and vomiting, can be influenced by factors such as stress, emotional health, diet and lifestyle, and often involves a multidisciplinary approach. It includes treatment options that integrate medical, psychological, dietary and sometimes complementary therapies, such as hypnotherapy, acupuncture and neuromodulation techniques.

The goal in neurogastroenterology is to improve patient quality of life through a deeper understanding of how brain-gut interactions contribute to GI symptoms, focusing on both symptom relief and the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms. Consultations for adults only.