Diagnosing Digestive Disorders Through Endoscopy

Endoscopies are a minimally invasive procedure that allows healthcare providers, such as gastroenterologists, to examine the internal organs of the digestive tract. Gastroenterologists will insert a long, flexible tube equipped with a tiny light and camera into the mouth and get photos and videos of the esophageal lining, small intestine, large intestine, and stomach. Endoscopy allows doctors to further examine areas of your upper gastrointestinal (GI) system and provide accurate diagnoses and recommendations for care.  

GI issues can often be challenging to diagnose without an endoscopy. Patients may experience various symptoms ranging from mild stomach aches to severe problems such as vomiting blood. While anxiety, food quality, or even environmental stimuli have the potential to cause GI disruptions, endoscopies provide an accurate analysis for those experiencing long-term symptoms and complications. Here, we will take a closer look at some digestive disorders that require an endoscopy to diagnose and how they can affect your daily life.

How Gastroenterologists Use Endoscopy for Diagnosis

Using endoscopy, gastroenterologists can clearly visualize the inside of the upper GI tract and examine the throat, stomach, and upper digestive tract for abnormalities, growths, or irritation. By gathering information on your current symptoms, gastroenterologists can focus their visuals on areas that may be of cause. Common diagnoses determined by endoscopy are: 

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is an extremely common chronic condition characterized by frequent heartburn and acid reflux. In the United States, 18-27% of adults experience GERD, with a higher prevalence among men. In cases where acid reflux is untreatable by dietary changes or over-the-counter remedies, your doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist for an endoscopic evaluation. 

During the endoscopic procedure, your gastroenterologist will assess the severity of esophageal damage from stomach acids, identify any inflammation or ulcers, and detect any complications or precancerous conditions, such as Barrett’s esophagus. 

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption. Gluten, commonly found in bread, soy sauce, or baked goods, can cause extreme stomach or digestive pain, inflammation, or even ulcers in those with celiac disease. If untreated or undiagnosed, regular consumption of gluten can worsen celiac disease, resulting in chronic discomfort and the development of other complications. 

Your gastroenterologist will conduct an endoscopy to examine the small intestine for damage to the villi, tiny finger-like projections that line the intestinal wall. If damage is present, your gastroenterologist may consult your primary healthcare provider and recommend a gluten-free diet. 

Esophageal and Stomach Cancer

Endoscopy is a powerful and valuable tool for diagnosing and gathering biometric information on esophageal and stomach cancer. Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the esophagus, where food travels down to the stomach. Common symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, esophageal pain, anemia, and chronic coughing can be indicators of the development of esophageal cancer or precancerous conditions that must be treated, such as Barrett’s esophagus. 

In evaluating for stomach cancer, gastroenterologists will search for early-stage tumors and can collect tissue samples for biopsy. If necessary, your gastroenterologist will collect tissue samples and deliver biopsy samples to the lab for cancer evaluation. 

Preparing for Your Endoscopy

Before visiting a gastroenterologist, communicate with your medical health provider about any current symptoms, medical history, or dietary changes. In many cases, GI issues can result from aging, poor nutritional habits, and side effects of medications or supplements. If lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies prove ineffective, your primary healthcare provider will schedule you for an endoscopy and refer you to a gastroenterology specialist.

If an endoscopy is deemed fit, you must follow specific instructions and preparations to ensure that your endoscopy procedure goes smoothly and that your gastroenterologist can thoroughly examine your upper GI tract. Preparation for endoscopy typically includes:

Fasting: Before your procedure, you will need to fast. Fasting ensures that your stomach and upper GI tract are clear of any food or food particles and allows gastroenterologists to get a clear picture of your stomach. 

Medication: If you take any medications that might interfere with the procedure, such as blood thinners, you must consult your doctors and adjust your medication routine before your endoscopy.

Sedation: During your endoscopy, you will need to be sedated. Sedation helps patients to relax and minimize disruptions while the endoscopic camera is inserted down the throat. You must plan and find a trusted friend or family member to accompany you and take you home after your procedure, as you will still be feeling the effects of sedation and will not be able to drive. 

Consent: Your gastroenterologist and healthcare staff will review the procedure from start to finish and request that you sign a consent form before they begin. Consent forms ensure you fully understand the procedure's risks and benefits and allow doctors to proceed. 

Dr. Ernest Castro — Colorado’s Premier Choice for Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Care

Endoscopy is an extremely valuable diagnostic procedure for a wide range of digestive disorders and diseases. By giving gastroenterologists a clear view of the upper GI system, endoscopies aid doctors in delivering accurate diagnoses for early intervention and treatment. If you are experiencing any upper GI issues or symptoms of a GI disorder, consult your healthcare provider to determine if you are a good candidate for endoscopy. 

‍Dr. Ernest Castro is Colorado’s top choice for endoscopic care. Dr. Castro and his team of gastroenterology professionals are committed to delivering the highest quality care with integrity and a patient-first approach. Using the latest technology and tailored treatment plans, Dr. Castro delivers personalized and efficient medical care to all patients seeking gastroenterology services. For more information or to request an appointment, visit our website or call (720) 782-6188 today!