Anyone with persistent digestive issues should consult a gastroenterologist, a doctor specializing in the digestive system, to address discomfort and diagnose any infections or diseases that may be causing health problems. Not all digestive conditions require an endoscopy to diagnose, but the procedure may be crucial to identifying and treating whatever problems you’re encountering with your stomach and other parts of your digestive tract.
What is an Endoscopy?
A gastroenterologist may use a device called an endoscope to examine your digestive tract. The endoscope is a flexible tube equipped with a light and camera, allowing the doctor to view your digestive tract on a monitor. An endoscopy is a non-surgical procedure helpful in identifying and treating stomach pain, ulcers, gastritis, constipation, diarrhea, growths in the colon and digestive bleeding. The gastroenterologist may use the scope to take a sample of tissue, known as a biopsy, to further diagnose any disease.
As an endoscopy isn’t a surgery, it doesn’t require significant recovery time. However, you’ll want to schedule the procedure for a time when you can adequately prepare for it. At minimum, you’ll need to fast for about 6 to 8 hours before the endoscopy, but if the doctor plans to examine your colon, you will need to take laxatives the day before the appointment in order to eliminate stool from your colon. Endoscopy patients are sedated during the examination, so you shouldn’t drive until the day after the procedure.
Call Glenn D Madokoro, MD if you are suffering from digestive issues
If you’re experiencing disruptive digestive issues, call your Newport Beach, CA, doctor about scheduling an endoscopy as soon as possible. Glenn D Madokoro, MD, not only performs endoscopy procedures, but offers a full array ofgastroenterology services to help you maintain a healthy digestive system. To learn more about Dr. Madokoro’s offerings or schedule an appointment, call (949) 548-8800 today. Your body will thank you!