Digestive endoscopy in Armenia, Colombia

What is digestive endoscopy?

It is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to see inside the digestive tract. Upper endoscopy examines the esophagus, stomach and duodenum; colonoscopy examines the colon and the end of the small intestine.

When is it ordered?

Upper endoscopy for persistent heartburn or stomach pain, reflux that does not improve, trouble swallowing, vomiting blood, unexplained anemia or to test for Helicobacter pylori. Colonoscopy for rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, chronic diarrhea, and as colon cancer screening, generally from age 45 to 50 or earlier with a family history.

How should you prepare?

For upper endoscopy, fast for 6 to 8 hours. For colonoscopy, follow a special diet in the days before and a laxative prep to clean the colon; good cleansing is key for a useful exam. Tell the team if you take blood thinners, antiplatelets, iron or diabetes medication. Bring a companion, since sedation is used.

Does it hurt?

With sedation, most people feel no discomfort and do not remember the procedure. Gas or bloating may last a few hours afterward. Biopsies or polyp removal can be done painlessly during the exam.

Find digestive endoscopy specialists

On MedicosDoc you can find gastroenterologists and endoscopy centers. Compare options and book your procedure.