Endoscopy
If you experience unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms or are at risk of developing cancer in your digestive tract, the experienced gastroenterologists at Peak Gastroenterology Associates, with locations in Colorado Springs, Castle Rock, Salida, Denver, Woodland Park, and Parker, Colorado, are here for you. They use endoscopy to diagnose the cause of your symptoms or complete minor surgical procedures to prevent complications. To request an appointment at Peak Gastroenterology Associates, call the office or request an appointment online to see how endoscopy can help you.
Endoscopy Q&A
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.
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 are what 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?
Before your endoscopy, your gastroenterologist gives you special pre-procedure instructions. You may have to stop eating or drinking up to eight hours before treatment or take a bowel prep to empty your large intestine. Plan to have someone drive you home after the procedure and take the rest of the day off work.
Just before endoscopy, your doctor gives you a sedative to relax you during the procedure. With an upper endoscopy, they insert an endoscope 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.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
After endoscopy, you relax in a recovery room for about an hour while your sedation wears off. Have a friend or family member drive you home and take it easy the remainder of the day. You might experience some cramping, bloating, gas or a sore throat. If you’ve had 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.