FAQs

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inner lining of your large intestine (colon and rectum) using a long, flexible tube with a camera called a colonoscope. It is primarily used to detect abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, inflammation, or bleeding in the colon.

A colonoscopy typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, you should plan to be at the medical facility for approximately 2 to 3 hours to account for preparation, the procedure itself, and recovery from sedation.

After a colonoscopy, it's recommended that you start with light, easily digestible foods. These include soups, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and crackers. Gradually, you can return to your regular diet as long as you feel comfortable.

Preparation for a colonoscopy involves a clear liquid diet the day before the procedure, drinking a prescribed bowel-cleansing solution, and possibly avoiding certain medications. Your doctor will provide specific instructions tailored to your needs.

The cost of a colonoscopy can vary widely, ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on location, the facility where it's performed, and whether polyps are removed or biopsies are taken. Insurance coverage may reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

A colonoscopy can detect various conditions, including colorectal cancer, polyps, diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, and other abnormalities in the colon and rectum.

Yes, Medicare covers colonoscopy procedures. For individuals at average risk, Medicare covers the procedure once every 10 years. For those at higher risk, it may be covered more frequently. Check with your provider for specific coverage details.

An endoscopy is a procedure where a doctor uses an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera, to examine the inside of your digestive tract. It is commonly used to inspect the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine.

An endoscopy usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes. However, you should plan to be at the medical facility for about 1 to 2 hours to accommodate preparation, the procedure, and recovery time.

Most patients do not find an endoscopy painful, as they are typically sedated during the procedure. You may experience mild discomfort or a sore throat afterward, but this usually resolves quickly.

An endoscopy can show inflammation, ulcers, tumors, or other abnormalities in the upper digestive tract. It can also detect signs of conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), celiac disease, and upper gastrointestinal cancers.

Preparation for an endoscopy generally involves fasting for several hours before the procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions, including avoiding certain medications or adjusting your diet.

To prepare for an endoscopy, you will need to fast, typically for at least 6 to 8 hours before the procedure. Your doctor may also advise you to stop certain medications and follow other preparation guidelines.

Preparation for a capsule endoscopy often includes fasting for 12 hours before swallowing the capsule. You may also be instructed to avoid certain medications and possibly take a bowel preparation to ensure a clear view of your small intestine.

A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein or group of veins in the rectum or anus. Hemorrhoids can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus), and they often cause discomfort, itching, or bleeding.

External hemorrhoids appear as lumps around the anus, which may be red or bluish due to blood clots. Internal hemorrhoids are generally not visible but may cause bleeding or prolapse outside the anus.

Hemorrhoids can often be managed with lifestyle changes, such as increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter creams or ointments. In some cases, medical treatments like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or surgery may be necessary.

Hemorrhoids can feel like small lumps around the anus and may cause discomfort, itching, or pain, especially during bowel movements. You may also notice bleeding or irritation in the affected area.

To heal a hemorrhoid, focus on softening your stools by eating a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining during bowel movements. Over-the-counter creams or sitz baths can provide relief. In more severe cases, medical treatment may be required.

Curing a hemorrhoid often involves a combination of dietary changes, topical treatments, and lifestyle adjustments. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures or surgery may be necessary to resolve the issue fully.

Common signs of hemorrhoids include itching, discomfort, pain, and bleeding during bowel movements. You may also feel a lump near your anus if you have an external hemorrhoid.

Shrinking a hemorrhoid skin tag typically involves maintaining good hygiene, avoiding irritation, and using topical treatments. In some cases, a doctor may recommend removal through minor surgery if it causes discomfort.

Yes, a thrombosed hemorrhoid (one with a blood clot) can burst, leading to a brief period of bleeding and relief from pain. However, this should be evaluated by a doctor to prevent complications.

Preparation for hemorrhoid treatment depends on the procedure. For minor treatments, little to no preparation may be needed, while surgical procedures may require fasting or other preparations. Your doctor will provide specific instructions.

Gastrointestinal diseases are diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examinations, laboratory tests, imaging studies (such as CT scans or MRI), and endoscopic procedures like colonoscopy or endoscopy.

Gastrointestinal bleeding can be caused by various conditions, including ulcers, hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and tumors. It may occur anywhere in the GI tract, from the esophagus to the rectum.

The gastrointestinal system is responsible for digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste. It includes organs such as the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

The gastrointestinal system, also known as the digestive system, consists of a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus, along with associated organs like the liver and pancreas. It plays a crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination.

The gastrointestinal system breaks down food into nutrients the body can use, absorbs these nutrients into the bloodstream, and removes waste products from the body.

A gastrointestinal doctor, or gastroenterologist, is a specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions related to the digestive system, including diseases of the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

Dr. Castro is in-network with most major insurance plans. However, the insurance business is complex, so we recommend calling the number on your insurance card or letting our staff assist you to verify Dr. Castro's status.

Dr. Castro sees adult patients 18 years and older for colonoscopy and EGD. Dr. Castro will see pediatric patients for hemorrhoid issues down to 10 years of age.

If you have any more questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help!