ColomboSurgeon

Endoscopy and Colonoscopy

What is an Endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to examine the inside of your digestive system using a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light (endoscope). It can help diagnose, treat, or monitor conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine.

 

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a type of endoscopy focused on examining the lower digestive tract (colon and rectum). It uses a similar flexible tube with a camera to detect abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, or cancer.

Why Are These Procedures Performed?

Endoscopy

To investigate symptoms like:

  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Persistent heartburn
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea or vomiting

To diagnose conditions such as:

  • Ulcers
  • Gastritis
  • Celiac disease

To treat issues like:

  • Bleeding ulcers
  • Removing small growths

 

Colonoscopy

  • To screen for colon cancer or precancerous polyps (especially for individuals over 45 or with a family history).
  • To diagnose symptoms like:
    • Blood in stool
    • Persistent diarrhea or constipation
    • Unexplained abdominal pain
  • To monitor conditions like:
    • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
    • Diverticulitis

Preparation for Endoscopy

  • Fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
  • Avoid drinking liquids, smoking, or chewing gum as instructed by your doctor.
  • You may need to adjust or stop certain medications temporarily.
  •  

Preparation for Colonoscopy

  • Follow a special diet (usually clear liquids) the day before.
  • Take a prescribed laxative to clear the bowels.
  • Arrange transportation home as sedation is usually used.

 

 

The Procedure

Endoscopy

  • You’ll lie on your side, and a sedative may be administered.
  • The doctor inserts the endoscope through your mouth.
  • The camera transmits images to a monitor for examination.
  • The procedure usually lasts 15–30 minutes.

 

Colonoscopy

  • You’ll lie on your side, and sedation is given.
  • The colonoscope is inserted through the rectum into the colon.
  • The doctor inspects for abnormalities and may take biopsies or remove polyps.
  • The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes.

 

After the Procedure

Endoscopy

  • Rest until the sedative wears off.
  • You might experience a mild sore throat for a day or two

 

Colonoscopy

  • You may feel bloated or pass gas due to air used during the procedure.
  • Minor spotting is normal if a biopsy or polyp removal was done.

 

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain.
  • Persistent fever or chills.
  • Excessive bleeding.
  • Difficulty swallowing (after an endoscopy).