Endoscopy is an important diagnostic procedure that visualizes the interior lining of an organ or tissue. Patients in Bethpage and Farmingdale can benefit from endoscopy services offered in clinical facilities in these areas, which can help diagnose and treat various diseases.
This article aims to inform patients about endoscopy tests, their applications, and pre-operation, during-operation, and post-operation care in Bethpage and Farmingdale.
What is an Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a procedure that uses a long, flexible tube with a light and video camera. This device enables the doctor to display images of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract on a screen. Endoscopies are employed to diagnose diseases of the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine – upper endoscopy, or the large intestine and rectum – colonoscopy. There are two main types of endoscopy related to the GI tract.
- Upper Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD): This examines the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine which is called the duodenum.
- Lower Endoscopy (Colonoscopy): This examines the colon and rectum.
Why is Endoscopy Performed?
Endoscopies are carried out for different purposes, which are described below.
- Diagnosis: This involves diagnosing the cause of various conditions, such as abdominal pain, ulcers, gastritis, or bleeding. It is also used to diagnose infections, inflammations, and cancer.
- Treatment: Some diseases can be managed during endoscopy, depending on the procedures to be performed. For instance, it may be possible to have polyps excised, bleeding halted, and obstructions relieved.
- Monitoring: In cases of chronic inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, endoscopy is useful in the assessment of the disease activity.
Preparation for an Endoscopy
Preparation of the patient is very vital in the successful execution of the endoscopy test in Bethpage and Farmingdale. There might be minor variations in the procedures followed in upper and lower endoscopy.
Upper Endoscopy Preparation
Fasting: The preparations include fasting for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure is carried out. This means no food and no beverages, including water, so there is nothing in the stomach.
Medications: Some medications that a patient is already taking need to be changed or stopped completely. Patients should also disclose all forms of drugs, including over-the-counter and supplements, to their doctors.
Colonoscopy Preparation
Diet: The patients are instructed to take clear liquids only for 24-48 hours before the procedure. This includes clear soup, clear juice, and water only without the pulp part of the juice.
Laxatives: The patient must undergo a bowel prep that entails using laxatives to clear the colon. This step enables the doctor to have a clear view of the colon walls.
Hydration: During the preparation phase, it is necessary to maintain the water intake because the bowel prep may lead to dehydration.
The Endoscopy Procedure
Endoscopy procedures are mostly outpatient procedures. They are quite short and could take 15-60 minutes. Here is what patients can anticipate from this procedure.
- Sedation: The patient is normally administered an anesthetic to enable him or her to be relaxed during the procedure to reduce the pain.
- Insertion: For the upper endoscopy, the endoscope is passed through the mouth, while for colonoscopy, it is passed through the rectum.
- Examination: The doctor looks at the lining of the GI tract because the endoscope captures the images and transmits them to the doctor.
- Biopsy: If required, a biopsy may be done to obtain the samples for further tests.
- Completion: The endoscope is then removed slowly and the patient is observed till the effects of the sedative wear off.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery
Patients are observed for a short time after the procedure before the effects of the sedative fully wear off. The patient is advised to be followed home by another person or be picked up by someone else. Below are some of the things patients need to know after they undergo a given procedure.
- Rest: The patient should avoid any physical activity and heavy exercise for the rest of the day. You can go for some gentle moves or postures only if the doctor suggests you.
- Diet: It is recommended that the patient start with small portions of food initially and then slowly go back to normal meals. This will help the body recover easily without any extra work.
- Symptoms: Some people may experience a little bloating, gas, or a sore throat, but this should go away after a few days. Patients should consult the doctor if they develop severe pain or high fever or if their symptoms do not improve.
Conclusion
Undergoing an endoscopy test in Bethpage or Farmingdale ensures patients receive the best medical care from experienced endoscopy doctors or medical professionals. Knowledge of the procedure, the preparations, and the recovery process will go a long way in easing the tension normally associated with the procedure. It is always advisable to seek professional advice from your doctor regarding your health status and any treatment procedures to be taken.For more details about endoscopy and the related services in Bethpage and Farmingdale, the patient should consult the nearest healthcare facilities. You can also turn to trustworthy sources, such as the LI Medical Group.