Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is the study and treatment of conditions associated with your digestive system ranging from the mouth to the anus and including the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and liver.

Enquire Today

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the long-term (chronic) inflammation of all or part of your gut (gastrointestinal tract). It is mainly used to describe two conditions: Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease. Ulcerative Colitis only affects the colon (large intestine), while Crohn’s disease can affect all of the digestive system.

There is no cure for these diseases. Treatments, in the form of medicines, aim to alleviate and control symptoms and prevent them from recurring. If you have a severe case of Ulcerative Colitis surgery may be necessary to remove an inflamed section of the digestive system. Around 60 to 75% of people with Crohn’s disease will require surgery to repair digestive system damage and treat complications of the condition.

Dyspepsia

Dyspesia (indigestion) is a common complaint that causes: pain or discomfort in your upper abdomen (stomach) or chest, heartburn, feeling sick and belching. It’s most common after eating but it can happen anytime. Once diagnosed, lifestyle changes such as losing excessive weight, smoking cessation and stress reduction together with over the counter or prescription medicines may be recommended to relieve the symptoms.

Pancreatic disorders

The pancreas is a gland behind your stomach and in front of your spine. It has dual roles: as a digestive system organ it produces juices that help break down your food in particular protein and, it makes the hormone insulin that helps to control your blood sugar levels.

Some problems that affect the pancreas include: acute and chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas that occurs when digestive enzymes start digesting the pancreas itself), pancreatic cancer, type 1 and type 2 diabetes (conditions in which your body can’t control the amount of glucose in your blood) and cystic fibrosis (a genetic disorder in which thick, sticky mucus can also block tubes in your pancreas).

Acute pancreatitis may be treated by giving intravenous fluids through a drip, painkillers, medications or gallstone removal. Chronic pancreatitis is treated with lifestyle changes, medicines and sometimes surgery. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery may be recommended for pancreatic cancer depending upon the stage of the cancer. There isn't a cure for type 1 diabetes but it is controlled by taking insulin and making simple lifestyle changes. Treatment for type 2 diabetes is aimed at controlling your blood glucose level including medicines, lifestyle changes and insulin.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a virus carried in your blood and body fluids that infects, inflames and damages your liver. Hepatitis B can be acute or chronic. Most people with acute hepatitis B will recover without treatment. For those with chronic Hepatitis B medicines may be prescribed.

Ashtead Hospital Specialists

Complimentary Patient Advice

Our expert consultants are committed to offering excellent care as soon as you need it; that's why they dedicate time to offer complimentary advice, with no obligation, so you can be sure before making a decision. Hear and speak to a Consultant within the speciality of your choice; get the information you need and all your questions answered to help you make a decision on your next steps in your healthcare journey.

View Events
What makes us unique

Our patients are at the heart of what we do

  • friendly-hospitals-icon

    Friendly hospitals

    Our company ethos "People caring for people" means that every single day our teams selflessly put our patients' needs before their own to help deliver quick access to treatment, so you and your family do not have to worry and wait.

  • consultant-led-icon

    Consultant led care

    With more than 2500 consultants throughout the UK, you can opt for a specialist in the treatment you require. They will remain dedicated to your care throughout your stay and follow-up consultations.

  • excellent-infection-icon

    Excellent infection prevention

    Full adherence to all guidance issued from professional organisations including the Government and Public Health England.

  • viral-consultations-icon

    Patient Support

    We can provide access to a dedicated member of staff to talk through any concerns you may have prior to attending hospital.

  • free-parking-icon

    Free on-site parking

    Our hospitals are ensuring we have as many free car parking spaces available for our patients as possible.

Your Healthcare
Pathway With Us


consultation

Consultation

Our specialist team will discuss your symptoms with you and advise on appropriate treatment tailored to you.

treatment

Treatment

Based on your individual requirements your treatment will begin when you are ready and at a convenient time to suit you.

aftercare

Support & Aftercare

Our comprehensive aftercare provides support and guidance throughout your treatment and recovery journey.

You're in control

Flexible payment options

to suit you

payment-plan-icon

0% Payment Plans

Spread the cost of your treatment with fixed, monthly payments over a time period to suit you.

Find out more
self-funding-icon

Self-funding Patients

We offer an alternative range of ways to pay, so you can choose which one best suits you and your finances.

Find out more
medical-insurance

Private Medical Insurance

Use your private medical insurance to fund your treatment through our simple referral process.

Find out more

Latest from Ashtead Hospital

Pioneering Global Ophthalmic Surgery

Pioneering Global Ophthalmic Surgery

UKISCRS celebrates 75 years of pioneering global ophthalmic surgery, with Ashtead's Professor Paul Ursell, UKISCRS President.

Find out more
Ashtead Hospital named as a National Joint Registry

Ashtead Hospital named as a National Joint Registry

After successfully completing a national program of local data audits, we are thrilled to have been recognised and named as a NJR Quality Data Provider. 

Find out more
NJR Status

NJR Status

Ashtead Hospital is celebrating after being named as a National Joint Registry (NJR) Quality Data Provider after successfully completing a national programme of local data audits. 

Find out more
View More
Paying for yourself?

Get in touch

Need some advice on a treatment price or booking an initial appointment?

We're here to help.

BOOK ONLINE

Or send us a message...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.