Dr. Glenn Madokoro performs endoscopies to diagnose and treat patients in the Newport Beach, CA area. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate stomach, intestinal, or colon issues, our team is here to help with an endoscopy or colonoscopy.
What is an endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is a procedure designed to let your doctor view your internal organs and digestive tract. It involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a light and a camera (called an endoscope) through the mouth and throat. You are under IV sedation during an endoscopy and shouldn't feel any discomfort. You lie on your side and the tube goes down the esophagus so your doctor can view your digestive tract.
Before an endoscopy, your gastroenterologist will evaluate your symptoms, conduct a physical exam, and order blood tests in preparation for the procedure. You need to prepare by not eating or drinking so the digestive tract is empty. Your doctor examines the inside of your esophagus and intestines looking for signs of bleeding, ulcers, polyps, or other abnormalities. During an endoscopy, tissue samples can be removed for further analysis and some polys can even be removed. Most patients only experience slight discomfort or sore throat afterward.
When should I see my doctor for an endoscopy?
There are many gastrointestinal symptoms that may prompt your doctor to perform an endoscopy at our Newport Beach, CA, practice. Endoscopies are recommended if you are experiencing stomach pain or symptoms of any of the following conditions:
- GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Difficulty swallowing
- Stomach ulcer
- Inflammatory bowel diseases
- Pancreatitis
- Gallstones
- Stomach hernia
- Digestive tract bleeding
- Chronic constipation
- Blood in urine
An endoscopy procedure can help your doctor determine the cause of your pain or other symptoms. If you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms and have not been diagnosed, Dr. Madokoro can help. Contact us for an appointment in Newport Beach, CA, at (949) 548-8800.