5 Important Facts About Endoscopy

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Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a non-surgical procedure that may be used to examine your digestive tract. It uses a flexible tube with a camera and light attached to it. Your doctor will view images of your digestive tract on a color monitor. When getting an upper endoscopy, the endoscope will be passed through your throat, esophagus, and stomach. Endoscopes may also be passed through the rectum, making it possible to examine the intestine. Even though the procedures are widely practiced, they are still misunderstood. Lima, endoscopy specialists are available to you. The following are a few important things to know:


  1. Why Do Doctors Do It?

Your doctor may recommend an endoscopy if they need to treat problems in your stomach, esophagus, rectum, or intestine. You may get an endoscopy even when you are not experiencing symptoms. It may be used to screen for serious issues like colon cancer. Early detection makes it possible to treat the problems. Your doctor may recommend endoscopy to:

  • Determine why you are experiencing certain symptoms
  • Treat specific problems using tools that are small enough to fit through an endoscope
  • Check for problems, especially if you are 50 or older

Your doctor may use an endoscope to:

  • Stop bleeding with heat, electricity, or lasers
  • Snip out and test a piece of tissue
  • Remove a polyp or growth in your large intestine

  1. What Are the Risks?

The risks of an endoscopy are minimal, making it a safe procedure. Possible risks include infection, bleeding, and some pain at the incision site. There is a possibility that your tissues may tear when manipulated. Some patients may have a negative reaction to medications or anesthesia. Your doctor will explain the potential risks of your procedure and how you can reduce discomfort. Contact your doctor if you experience the following symptoms:

  • Extreme pain in your belly
  • Fever
  • Blood in your stool
  • Shortness of breath
  • Vomiting

  1. How Can You Prepare for Lower Endoscopy?

If you plan on getting a colonoscopy, there are a few simple ways to prepare. Some of the most important things to do include:

  • Avoid solid foods on the day before the test
  • Take medication to get all the stool from your intestines
  • Find out if you need to stop taking your regular medication before the test
  • Get all the necessary information from your doctor

  1. How Can You Prepare for Upper Endoscopy?

When getting ready for an upper endoscopy, you need to avoid drinking and eating before the test. Your doctor may suggest that you avoid certain medication.


  1. Who Can Perform an Endoscopy?

Different surgeons and doctors can perform endoscopies. A gastroenterologist can perform upper gastrointestinal endoscopies of the stomach or esophagus, and colon endoscopies. Your family doctor or internist can perform a sigmoidoscopy. There are lots of gastrointestinal surgeons and they may specialize in different procedures.

An endoscopy can have plenty of benefits regardless of your age. If you plan on getting it, it is wise to gather as much information as possible. It will put you at ease and ensure that you set realistic expectations.