If you are experiencing chronic sore throats, indigestion, and other symptoms, your gastroenterologist may recommend an endoscopy. The gastroenterologists at Gastroenterology Associates of Rochester in Rochester, NY, provide a wide range of GI services and treatments, including endoscopies.
What You Need To Know About an Endoscopy
An endoscopy is an important diagnostic and treatment procedure to help with throat and upper digestive system issues. The upper digestive system includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. You may need an endoscopy to diagnose and treat:
- Acid reflux
- GERD
- Anemia
- Ulcers
- Celiac disease
- GI cancer
Your gastroenterologist may also recommend an endoscopy if you are experiencing signs and symptoms like these:
- Chronic nausea and vomiting
- Continuous abdominal pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
Having an endoscopy requires preparation. You will need to avoid drinking or eating anything for 4 to 8 hours before the procedure. You should also avoid taking blood-thinning medications or NSAIDs because they can cause gastrointestinal bleeding.
During your endoscopy, your gastroenterologist will insert a thin, flexible tube, known as an endoscope, into your mouth. The endoscope has a camera at one end, which allows your gastroenterologist to view your esophagus and upper GI system.
The endoscope is guided down into your esophagus and upper GI system. If abnormal tissue or growths are found, they can be removed for a biopsy to determine if cancerous tissue is present. You will typically be sedated for an endoscopy, so it’s important to bring someone with you to drive you home afterward.
An endoscopy is an important diagnostic test and can identify serious conditions and diseases early. An early diagnosis means early treatment and a better outcome for you.
Want To Know More?
To find out more about when you need an endoscopy and how an endoscopy can help you, call the providers at Gastroenterology Associates of Rochester in Rochester, NY. You can reach them in the office by calling (585) 720-1550, so call today.