If your doctor recommends an endoscopy in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV, you may not know what it is and why it is important. The team at Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada provides not only expert endoscopies but all the other diagnostic and treatment tools required.
What is an endoscopy?
An endoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to see the inside of your body. A long thin tube with a camera attached called an endoscope is used. It goes through a passageway in the body to be able to look into an organ. There is not just one type of endoscopy, they have different names depending on what they are looking at in the body.
An upper endoscopy will look at the upper part of the body, which includes the esophagus, the lungs, the stomach, the upper small intestine, and the bronchial tubes. The lower endoscopy is usually referred to as a colonoscopy and looks into the colon.
What to expect when getting an endoscopy in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV?
You get your endoscopy in a hospital or clinic. You don't need to go under anesthesia in order to have an endoscopy. You will most likely be given a sedative to help you to relax. Another option is a gargle or spray that will numb your throat. The object is to overcome the gag reflex, which is a natural reaction to things going into your esophagus.
Before the procedure, you may need to stop some of your medication. Your doctor will discuss this with you. You also need to abstain from eating and drinking before your procedure. Your doctor will provide you with a time schedule. Make sure you have a ride home. You should not drive after your endoscopy.
Why is it important to get an endoscopy?
Usually, other tests are used before an endoscopy to try to determine what is going on inside your body. No matter how good other tests are, they don't quite give your doctor the picture of exactly what is happening as the endoscopy does. While the endoscope is in your body, the doctor will be able to remove samples of tissues to check for cancer. They will also be able to see the damage caused by GERD, ulcers in the stomach, and other conditions. An endoscopy is a very useful diagnostic tool and may be the only way to get a correct diagnosis.
When you need an endoscopy in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV, you can count on the doctors and other healthcare professionals at Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada to provide the care you require. Give the office a call at 702-483-4483 to make an appointment.