What Is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a procedure in which your gastroenterologist uses a special scope, or tube, with a tiny camera attached to it to view the inside of your gastrointestinal tract. Endoscopy helps your doctor diagnose digestive problems or perform minor surgical procedures, such as removing colon polyps.

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What Are the Different Types Of Endoscopy?

Depending on your symptoms and health, your gastroenterologist might recommend one of the following types of endoscopies:

  • Colonoscopy for the large intestine
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy for your lower large intestine
  • Upper endoscopy for the stomach and esophagus

Your symptoms and risk factors determine which type of endoscopy is right for you. Your doctor also reviews your medical history and completes a physical exam. They also may use blood or imaging tests to determine which procedure best matches your needs.

What Should I Expect During An Endoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist gives you special pre-procedure instructions before your endoscopy in Denver, Colorado Springs, & Lone Tree, CO. You may have to stop eating or drinking up to eight hours before treatment or take a bowel prep to empty your large intestine. Arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure and take the rest of the day off work. Your doctor will give you a sedative just before the endoscopy to relax you during the procedure. With an upper endoscopy, an endoscope will be inserted through your throat and down your esophagus to view your upper GI tract.

During a colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy, your gastroenterologist inserts a tiny scope into your rectum to view the inside of your large intestine and diagnose or treat your condition. Upper endoscopies and flexible sigmoidoscopies often take 15 to 30 minutes, and colonoscopies may take about 30 to 60 minutes.

Upper Endoscopy-What Patients Can Expect Screenshot

What Happens After the Procedure?

After the endoscopy, you will relax in a recovery room for about an hour while the sedation wears off. Please have a friend or family member drive you home and take it easy for the remainder of the day. You might experience some cramping, bloating, gas, or a sore throat. After a colonoscopy, you may notice some blood with your first bowel movement.

Your Peak Gastroenterology Associates provider reviews the results of your endoscopy and lets you know if additional diagnostic testing or treatment is necessary to optimize your health and prevent complications.

Don’t let persistent abdominal pain or gastrointestinal bleeding go untreated, as it could be a sign of a serious medical problem. Schedule an appointment with Peak Gastroenterology Associates over the phone or online to find out if you’re a good candidate for endoscopy in Denver, Colorado Springs, & Lone Tree, CO.

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