How an endoscopy from your gastroenterologists in Las Vegas, NV, can help you
There are many conditions that affect your upper digestive system including acid reflux, ulcers, and stomach pain, just to name a few. Fortunately, there is a very effective diagnostic tool to determine what could be causing your symptoms. It's called an endoscopy.
The gastroenterologists at Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada provide a wide range of gastrointestinal services, including endoscopies. They have three convenient locations in Las Vegas, NV, to help you.
If you have been told you need an endoscopy, you want to learn all you can about the procedure. These are some frequently asked questions and answers about endoscopy:
What is an endoscopy?
An endoscopy is a screening procedure, used to determine the health of your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.
When should I have an endoscopy?
Your gastroenterologist may recommend an endoscopy if you are experiencing:
- Frequent nausea and vomiting
- Chronic stomach or abdominal pain
- Problems or pain when swallowing
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
What can an endoscopy detect?
An endoscopy can help diagnose:
- Anemia
- Peptic ulcers
- Celiac disease
- Crohn’s disease
- Esophageal inflammation
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Esophageal, stomach, or intestinal cancers
What happens during an endoscopy?
A thin, flexible tube known as an endoscope is used. The endoscope has a camera at one end, which allows your GI doctor to view your esophagus, stomach, and upper intestine. The endoscope is placed in your mouth and guided down your esophagus and upper intestine.
Your GI doctor can see your upper digestive system and look for abnormal growths and tissue which can be removed during the procedure.
How do I prepare for an upper endoscopy?
You should not eat or drink anything at least 4 to 8 hours beforehand. Don’t take any blood-thinning medications, including NSAIDs before your procedure. You will be sedated during the procedure, so you must bring someone with you who can drive you home afterward.
To learn more about how endoscopy can help you, talk with the experts. Call the gastroenterologists at Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada. You can reach them in the office by calling (702) 483-4483, so call today.