frequently asked questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q1. I keep getting heartburn, could it be serious?

    Heartburn or acid reflux (also called GERD) happens when stomach acid comes up into your food pipe. It can cause burning in the chest, a sour taste in your mouth, or even a cough. Sometimes it’s linked to a hiatus hernia, where part of your stomach pushes into your chest.  


    Good to know: Most cases can be managed with lifestyle changes and medicine. Severe cases may need surgery.
        

  • Q2. Why does food sometimes feel stuck when I swallow?

    If swallowing feels difficult or painful, it could be dysphagia. This can happen if the food pipe is narrowed, irritated, or if the muscles aren’t working properly.


    Good to know: We can check with scans or a camera test (gastroscopy) and offer treatments like medicine, simple procedures, or if needed surgery.
        

  • Q3. What is IBS, and how do I know if I have it?

    Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is common. It causes bloating, tummy cramps, and changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhoea, or both). Stress, diet, or imbalance of the gut microbiome can trigger it.
        

    Good to know: We’ll help rule out other conditions first, then guide you with diet, lifestyle advice, stress management, and medicine if needed.
        

  • Q4. How is IBD different from IBS?

    Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Unlike IBS, IBD causes ongoing inflammation in the gut, which can lead to diarrhoea (sometimes with blood), pain, tiredness, and weight loss.  


    Good to know: We provide regular monitoring and treatments that calm the inflammation and help you live more comfortably.
        

  • Q5. Should I worry about fatty liver?

    Fatty liver disease happens when too much fat builds up in the liver, often linked to being overweight, having diabetes, or high cholesterol. Most people don’t notice symptoms early on.  


    Good to know: With healthy lifestyle changes and monitoring, it can often be reversed. But if left untreated, it may cause scarring of the liver (cirrhosis).
        

  • Q6. What is Hepatitis B and why is it important?

    Hepatitis B is a virus that can damage the liver. It’s common in some communities (ie. Chinese community) and can be passed from mother to baby, through blood, or through unprotected sex. Long-term infection can increase the risk of liver cancer.  


    Good to know: Regular monitoring is key. We’ll guide you on treatment or safe long-term follow-up.
        

  • Q7. Could I have food intolerance or coeliac disease?

    Yes, if certain foods make you bloated, uncomfortable, or cause diarrhoea. Coeliac disease is a more serious reaction to gluten that damages the gut lining.  


    Good to know: We offer simple blood, stool, and breath tests, plus dietary guidance to help you feel better.

  • Q8. What is diverticular disease?

    This is when small pouches form in the bowel wall. Most people don’t notice them, but sometimes they can get inflamed (diverticulitis) and cause pain, usually on the left side of the tummy.


    Good to know: It can usually be managed with diet changes and, if needed, antibiotics. Severe cases may need surgery.
        

  • Q9. How do I know if I have gallstones?

    Gallstones can cause pain after fatty meals, nausea, or even yellowing of the skin (jaundice).


    Good to know: Scans can confirm it. If gallstones cause ongoing trouble, surgery may be needed to remove them.
        

  • Q10. What are colon polyps, and should I worry about colon cancer?

    Colon polyps are small growths in the colon that are usually benign, but some can develop into colon cancer, so regular check-ups are important. 


    Good to know: Polyps can usually be removed during a colonoscopy (camera test). Catching them early is the best way to prevent cancer.
        

If you’re concerned about your stomach, bowels, or liver, don’t ignore it. Early assessment can make a real difference. We’re here to listen, explain things clearly, and guide you towards the right treatment.

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