Looking into the human digestive system has never been an easy task. Before the invention of modern methods, doctors had to rely on traditional methods to diagnose any conditions in the stomach and intestines. However, with technological advancements, gastroscopy has become a go-to method for detecting various gastrointestinal conditions.
Gastroscopy or upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light at the end, known as an endoscope, to examine the inside of the upper digestive tract. A gastroenterologist usually does it, who is a specialist in diagnosing and treating diseases of the digestive system.
Today, we will discuss seven common conditions that can be detected through the gastroscopy procedure.
Common Conditions Detected
1) Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid or bile irritates the lining of the oesophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and regurgitation of food.
Through gastroscopy, doctors can identify any damage or inflammation in the oesophagus caused by GERD and provide appropriate treatment.
2) H.Pylori Infection
H. pylori is a type of bacteria that can cause various gastrointestinal conditions, including gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), peptic ulcers (sores in the lining of the stomach or small intestine), and even stomach cancer.
Gastroscopy allows doctors to take tissue samples from the stomach lining for testing and identification of H.pylori infection. Treatment options include antibiotics and acid-suppressing medications.
3) Gastritis
Gastritis is a common condition where the stomach lining becomes inflamed. Various factors can cause it, such as H.pylori infection, excessive alcohol consumption, and long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Gastroscopy can detect the presence of gastritis and its severity, allowing doctors to recommend appropriate treatment methods. If left untreated, gastritis can lead to more severe complications, such as stomach ulcers and bleeding.
4) Perforated Ulcers
A perforated ulcer is a serious condition where an open sore or hole develops in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. This can occur due to long-term untreated gastritis, excessive use of NSAIDs, or H.pylori infection.
Gastroscopy can detect the presence of ulcers and its severity, allowing doctors to provide prompt treatment and prevent potential complications, such as infection and bleeding.
5) Barrett’s Esophagus
Barrett’s oesophagus is a condition where the cells in the lining of the oesophagus change due to frequent exposure to stomach acid. This can increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer.
Gastroscopy allows doctors to identify any changes in the cells and monitor patients for early detection of cancer.
6) Gastrointestinal Polyps
Gastrointestinal polyps are abnormal tissue growths that can develop in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or colon. Some types of polyps can turn into cancer if left untreated.
Gastroscopy can detect the presence of polyps and allow doctors to remove them during the procedure for further examination.
7) Cancerous Tumors
Lastly, gastroscopy can also detect cancerous tumours in the upper digestive tract. This includes esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, and small intestine cancer.
These cancers can be challenging to detect in their early stages, but with gastroscopy, doctors can visualise and take tissue samples for further testing and treatment.
Takeaway
Gastroscopy is a safe and effective procedure for detecting various gastrointestinal conditions. If you experience any symptoms related to the mentioned conditions, consult a gastroenterologist for timely diagnosis and treatment through gastroscopy.
Regular screenings can also help detect any underlying problems and prevent potential complications in the future. Remember, early detection leads to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to undergo this procedure if recommended by your gastro doctor.
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