If you live in the Newport Beach, CA area, and you have been told you need an endoscopy, chances are you have questions and 
concerns. A qualified gastroenterologist, like Dr. Glenn D Madokoro, can help you answer those questions.
The following are some common questions and answers regarding endoscopy
What is an endoscopy?
An endoscopy is a minimally invasive medical procedure in which a long, flexible tube with a tiny camera is used to examine difficult to reach areas of the body. In an upper endoscopy, the tube is inserted down the patient’s throat to examine the esophagus, stomach and beginning of the small intestine.
What is the purpose of an endoscopy?
The purpose of an endoscopy is to examine, diagnose, and sometimes treat conditions of difficult to examine areas such as the upper and lower GI tract.
Why do I need an endoscopy?
Chances are your Newport Beach doctor wants to further examine your upper GI tract to either ensure nothing is wrong or to diagnose a condition and treat it.
Is the procedure safe?
Yes. Very few complications are associated with the procedure. Usually, it is done on an outpatient basis. However, if you experience any such symptoms as fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, bloody or dark stool, difficulty swallowing, persistent abdominal painor vomiting, call your doctor immediately and/or go to the emergency room.
How long will it take?
Typically, an endoscopy will take 15-30 minutes. Your doctor may ask that you stop taking certain medications prior to your procedure. You will also need to fast for a period of time, generally 4-8 hours, before the procedure.
What happens next?
As most endoscopies are done on an inpatient basis, you will probably be in and out of the doctor’s office within a couple of hours. However, since you will likely receive local anesthesia and/or mild sedative it’s a good idea to have someone else drive you to and from the doctor’s office, clinic or hospital. You could experience mild discomfort after the procedure, possibly a sore throat or minor abdominal discomfort. Depending on the purpose of the procedure, you should get the results of the procedure within a few hours to a few days.
People living in the Newport Beach, CA area who are seeking information about endoscopy or who need a qualified physician to administer an endoscopy might consider contacting Glenn D. Madokoro, M.D. For more information call (949)548-8800 or visit the website at www.newportbeachgi.org.