Endoscopy

What is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic medical procedure used to examine the interior surfaces of an organ or tissue directly. An endoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera attached, allows doctors to view pictures of the digestive tract on a color TV monitor.

How Does It Work?

During an endoscopy, the endoscope is inserted into the body through a natural opening, such as the mouth or anus. The procedure can help diagnose and sometimes treat conditions that affect the esophagus, stomach, colon, and throat. Endoscopies can be used to take tissue biopsies, remove foreign objects, and perform stent placements or polyp removals.

Purpose of Endoscopy

• Diagnosis: Helping to diagnose diseases or conditions such as stomach ulcers, gastritis, digestive tract bleeding, colon polyps, or colon cancer.
• Treatment: Allowing for treatment interventions such as polyp removal or opening narrowed areas of the digestive tract.
• Surveillance: Monitoring certain conditions over time, such as Barrett's esophagus or precancerous types of polyps in the colon.

When to Seek an Endoscopy

You might need an endoscopy if you have symptoms such as:

• Unexplained abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea

Pre and Post Exam Care

Pre-Exam:

• Fasting: You'll likely need to fast for 6 to 8 hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments: Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you take, as some may need to be adjusted or stopped.
• Preparation for certain types: For a colonoscopy, you may need to take a laxative or undergo a bowel prep to clean the colon.

Post-Exam:

• Recovery: You may need to rest for a few hours until the effects of sedation wear off.
• Diet: You can usually start eating and drinking normally after the procedure unless your doctor specifies otherwise.
• Activity restrictions: Avoid driving and operating heavy machinery for 24 hours if sedatives were used.

Preventive Measures

While not all conditions detectable by endoscopy can be prevented, you can reduce your risk of digestive diseases through:

• A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Regular physical activity
• Moderate alcohol consumption
• Avoiding smoking
• Maintaining a healthy weight

Endoscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating various gastrointestinal conditions. If you experience symptoms that may require an endoscopic examination, consult your healthcare provider for advice on the next steps. Following the recommended pre and post-exam care will ensure the best possible outcomes from your endoscopy.