If your doctor has recommended an endoscopy, it’s natural to feel a little nervous, especially if you’re not quite sure what the procedure involves. That’s why at GI Partners of Illinois, we believe in educating our patients so you feel empowered and informed every step of the way.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the essentials of an endoscopy: what it is, why it’s done, and what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What Is an Endoscopy?
An endoscopy is a non-surgical procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (called an endoscope) to look inside your digestive tract. It’s commonly used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine.
Think of it as your doctor getting a real-time video of your digestive system, helping identify anything that might be causing symptoms like nausea, heartburn, or unexplained stomach pain. Wondering if your symptoms could require an endoscopy?
Why Might You Need an Endoscopy?
Your GI doctor might recommend an endoscopy for several reasons, including:
- Chronic acid reflux (GERD)
- Ongoing nausea or vomiting
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Trouble swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bleeding or anemia
- Monitoring existing GI conditions like ulcers or celiac disease
Moreover, it’s not just for diagnosis either—doctors can use endoscopy to take biopsies, stop bleeding, or remove polyps without surgery. Do any of these issues sound familiar to you?
What Happens During the Endoscopy Procedure?
The process is much simpler (and shorter!) than most people think. Here’s what to expect:
Prep
You’ll likely need to fast for several hours before the procedure. Specific instructions will be provided.
Sedation
You’ll be sedated, meaning you’ll feel relaxed and probably won’t remember the procedure.
Procedure
The doctor inserts the endoscope through your mouth and gently examines your upper digestive tract.
Duration
The whole thing typically takes less than 30 minutes.
Still nervous about the process?
What About Recovery?
Most patients go home the same day. In fact, you might feel a little groggy or have a sore throat for a few hours, but overall there’s minimal downtime. After that, you’ll also have a follow-up with your doctor to go over any findings and discuss next steps. Curious to know how soon you can eat or drive afterward?
Why Choose GI Partners of Illinois for Your Endoscopy?
At GI Partners of Illinois, your comfort, safety, and care come first. Our board-certified gastroenterologists use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure accurate diagnoses and a smooth experience.
We’re not just here to perform a procedure; we’re here to help you understand your digestive health and take control of it.
Still Have Questions?
Don’t wait for your symptoms to get worse. Talk to one of our specialists today and find out if an endoscopy is right for you.
Schedule your appointment now or call us to speak to a care coordinator.
Know more about endoscopy here.
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