Endoscopy is a minimally invasive medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the inside of the body using a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope. This device is equipped with a light and a camera, providing real-time visuals of internal organs and tissues displayed on a monitor.
The endoscope is inserted through natural openings like the mouth or nose, or in some cases, via a small incision. This method enables doctors to access areas that are otherwise difficult to reach, making it an essential tool in modern medicine.
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Why is Endoscopy Performed?
The primary cause of alcoholic liver disease is excessive alcohol consumption. Factors that contribute include:
Diagnosing conditions:
It helps identify infections, ulcers, tumors, or internal bleeding that might not be detected by other diagnostic methods.
Investigating symptoms:
Persistent issues such as abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or chronic cough can be evaluated using endoscopy.
Performing medical procedures:
Doctors can conduct interventions such as collecting tissue samples (biopsies), removing polyps, or stopping bleeding during the same session.
Screening purposes:
For conditions like colon cancer, endoscopy is an effective tool for early detection, even in individuals without symptoms.
Afterward, patients are monitored until the effects of the sedative wear off. Common side effects include a sore throat, bloating, or gas.
Types of Endoscopy
Gastroscopy:
Examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to investigate symptoms like heartburn.
Colonoscopy:
 Focuses on the colon and rectum, aiding in the detection of polyps or colon cancer.
Bronchoscopy:
Inspects the lungs and airways for infections or tumors.
Cystoscopy:
Targets the bladder and urethra, helping diagnose stones or bladder cancer.
Arthroscopy:
Used for diagnosing and treating joint issues, such as in the knee or shoulder.
Laparoscopy:
Also known as keyhole surgery, it examines internal organs like the liver and pancreas.
Preventing Alcoholic Liver Disease
What to Expect After an Endoscopy
Mild discomfort: Depending on the procedure, patients might experience temporary side effects like bloating or a sore throat.
Recovery time: Rest is often advised post-procedure, particularly if a sedative was administered.
Follow-up: Results are usually available immediately or after biopsy analysis.
Endoscopy is a versatile and precise technique, offering significant benefits for diagnosing and managing various medical conditions. Its minimally invasive nature ensures convenience and safety for patients while enabling healthcare providers to achieve accurate outcomes.
An endoscopy is used to diagnose and treat conditions such as inflammation, bleeding, ulcers, tumours, or infections. It is often used to check the oesophagus, stomach, intestines, or lungs.
The procedure is usually not painful, but you might experience discomfort or bloating. Sedation or local anaesthesia is typically used to make the procedure more comfortable.
Yes, endoscopy is generally safe. However, as with any procedure, there are some risks, such as bleeding, perforation (a tear), and reaction to sedation, though these are rare.
For most endoscopies, you'll be given sedation to help you relax and minimize discomfort. You might be drowsy or lightly asleep during the procedure, but you will be monitored throughout.