Gastroenterology is a branch of medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders. It encompasses the diseases that affect the organs along your gastrointestinal tract, including the liver, stomach, intestines, pancreas and gallbladder. Gastroenterologists are able to diagnose and treat digestive disorders such as liver disease, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome and some cancers. There are a few signs that you should seek help and make an appointment with a gastroenterologist, including: Unexplained changes in your bowel habits, such as Diarrhoea, constipation and blood in stool Unusual bloating Frequent and severe heartburn Sudden and severe abdominal pain You’re due for a colonoscopy.

Hepatology is more specifically focused on the liver, gallbladder, biliary tree and pancreas. There are a few specific reasons you may be referred to a hepatologist, including Liver injury caused by medication Gastrointestinal bleeding from portal hypertension Jaundice Ascites Enzyme defects Blood tests that indicate liver disease.