Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy: Key Tools for Diagnosing Digestive System Diseases
Gastroscopy and colonoscopy are endoscopic procedures used to diagnose conditions affecting the digestive system. These techniques allow for a detailed examination of the digestive tract, enabling the identification of issues such as ulcers, inflammation, cancer, polyps, and other abnormalities.
When Should Gastroscopy Be Performed?
Gastroscopy is recommended if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Persistent heartburn or vomiting
- A burning sensation in the throat or chest
- Digestive tract bleeding, evidenced by black or bloody stools
- Anemia of unknown origin
Procedure and Risks
Gastroscopy is a painless, minimally invasive procedure usually performed under anesthesia or sedation. During the procedure, an endoscope (a flexible tube equipped with a camera) is used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The live images captured by the camera are displayed on a monitor, allowing the physician to identify any abnormalities.
A biopsy may also be performed during gastroscopy, involving the collection of small tissue samples from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. These samples are sent to a pathology lab for microscopic examination.
Gastroscopy is widely used as a screening tool for the early detection of upper digestive tract diseases, significantly improving the chances of timely diagnosis and treatment.
