It is not uncommon to have a stomach ache every so often. While the symptoms can be frustrating they should be temporary and minor. But if the abdominal increases in severity or frequency, it could be something more serious.
Depending on where the abdominal pain is located, it can mean different things. A specialized gastroenterologist can accurately diagnose and treat the pain.
Important questions about endoscopy
What is endoscopy?
If you’ve never had an endoscopy, it can be very intimidating. An upper endoscopy is a simple procedure to examine the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Inspecting the lining, the first part of your small intestine, stomach and esophagus. It consist of an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera and light source. It sends images to a video monitor as it passes through your GI track. The doctor examines these images for any abnormalities.
According to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Endoscopy has been a major advance in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. For example, the use of endoscopes allows the detection of ulcers, cancers, polyps, and sites of internal bleeding. Through endoscopy, tissue samples (biopsies) may be obtained, areas of blockage can be opened, and active bleeding can be stopped. Polyps in the colon can be removed, which has been shown to prevent colon cancer.
The technique of endoscopy is extremely safe, with very low rates of complications, when performed by a properly trained endoscopist.
Who would benefit from an upper endoscopy?
Upper endoscopy is to diagnose and treat problems with your upper GI tract. Such as inflammation, ulcers, and tumors. It is also used to obtain a small tissue sample or biopsy. This can be tested to determine if the tissue is benign or cancerous.
Symptoms of an upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract conditions include:
Bleeding
Bloating
Pain in the abdomen or stomach
Nausea or vomiting
Constipation or diarrhea
Weight gain or loss
Heartburn or problems swallowing
How to prepare for an upper endoscopy
For the best and safest results, you want an empty stomach. This typically means, nothing to eat or drink for at least six hours before the procedure.
Your doctor will talk with you beforehand about any medications you are taking. While most are safe for endoscopy, a few may interfere. Such as anything with anti platelet agents, clopidogrel, blood thinners, and aspirin.
What types of conditions can a upper endoscopy detect?
Esophageal stricture
An abnormally narrowed or restricted area of the esophagus, it considered esophageal stricture. It can cause shortness of breath, trouble swallowing, pressure in the chest, and block normal movements of liquids and food.
Ulcers and inflammation
An upper endoscopy can detect a number of different types of inflammation, including gastritis, esophagitis, and duodenitis. Which can lead to other issues such as erosion and ulcers. Burning stomach pain, belching, bloating and vomiting can all be indications of an ulcer or inflammation.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Barrett’s esophagus
Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is when the stomach acid goes backward into the esophagus. It causes chronic heartburn, nausea, and indigestion. In not treated, the lining of the esophageal can be damaged and the abnormal cell growth called Barrett’s esophagus.
Tumors and cancers
During your upper GI endoscopy, the doctor will examine for any abnormalities, masses, or bumps. If there is anything unusual, the doctor may take a biopsy to further investigate.
Schedule an appointment today with Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida if you have experienced any symptoms mentioned in today’s blog or have any questions. Founded in 1996, we are committed to providing high quality healthcare in Central Florida, in a cost effective manner.