Albemarle Gastroenterology
405 Hastings Lane
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252-335-5588
What is Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to look at the inner lining of your large intestine (rectum and colon). He or she uses a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope to look at the colon. A colonoscopy helps find ulcers, colon polyps, tumors, and areas of inflammation or bleeding. During a colonoscopy, tissue samples can be collected (biopsy) and abnormal growths can be taken out. Colonoscopy can also be used as a screening test to check for cancer or precancerous growths in the colon or rectum (polyps).
The colonoscope is a thin, flexible tube that ranges from 48 in. (125 cm) to 72 in. (183 cm) long. A small video camera is attached to the colonoscope so that your doctor can take pictures or video of the large intestine (colon). The colonoscope can be used to look at the whole colon and the lower part of the small intestine. A test called sigmoidoscopy shows only the rectum and the lower part of the colon.
Before this test, you will need to clean out your colon (colon prep). Colon prep takes 1 to 2 days, depending on which type of prep your doctor recommends. Some preps may be taken the evening before the test. For many people, the prep is worse than the test. The bowel prep may be uncomfortable, and you may feel hungry on the clear liquid diet. Plan to stay home during your prep time since you will need to use the bathroom often. The colon prep causes loose, frequent stools and diarrhea so that your colon will be empty for the test. If you need to drink a special solution as part of your prep, be sure to have clear fruit juices or soft drinks to drink after the prep because the solution may have a salty or unpleasant taste.
Colonoscopy is one of many tests that may be used to screen for colon cancer. Other tests include sigmoidoscopy, stool tests, and computed tomographic colonography. Which screening test you choose depends on your risk, your preference, and your doctor. Talk to your doctor about what puts you at risk and what test is best for you.
Colonoscopy Preparation
What is Upper Endoscopy
An upper endoscopy can be used to determine the cause of heartburn and is often performed as an outpatient procedure. Upper endoscopy uses a thin scope with a light and camera at its tip to look inside of the upper digestive system -- the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum. During endoscopy, certain procedures such as taking a small tissue sample (biopsy) for testing may be performed.
Sometimes, the procedure is done in emergencies in the hospital or emergency room to both identify and treat upper digestive system bleeding such as from an ulcer.
Keeping a Heartburn Log
Heartburn symptoms can be triggered by certain foods, beverages, and activities. For example, some people suffer heartburn after eating onions, peppermint, chocolate, caffeine, citrus fruits, tomatoes, or high-fat foods. Others suffer heartburn if they lie down after a large meal. What are your triggers? Find out by keeping a heartburn log. Each day, jot down your symptoms and the time they occurred. Then note the foods you ate and your specific activities before the symptoms began.
In addition to heartburn, the procedure may also be used to help evaluate:
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Upper abdominal pain
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Nausea and vomiting
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Stomach bleeding
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Swallowing disorders
Endoscopy can also help identify inflammation, ulcers, and tumors.
Upper endoscopy can be more accurate than X-rays or other imaging for detecting abnormal growths and for examining the inside of the upper digestive system.
What Should I Do Before an Upper Endoscopy?
Before the upper endoscopy, tell your doctor about any medications (including over-the-counter) or supplements you are taking and about any medical problems or special conditions you have. You may be asked to hold off on certain medications or supplements prior to the procedure or afterward.
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Can I Eat or Drink Anything Before an Upper Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy requires that you have an empty stomach before the procedure. Do not eat or drink anything for at least six hours before the procedure, or as directed by your doctor or nurse.
Talk to your doctor about any changes that may be needed to your regular medication regimen. Ask if necessary medications may be taken with a small sip of water.
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I Have Diabetes. Can I Take Insulin the Day of my Upper Endoscopy?
If you have diabetes and use insulin, you must adjust the dosage of insulin the day of your upper endoscopy. Bring your diabetes medication if your doctor recommends that you take it after the procedure.
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Will I Be Able to Drive Home Following my Upper Endoscopy?
No. You will need to bring a responsible adult with you to take you home after the endoscopy. You should not drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day of the procedure to ensure that the sedative effects have worn off.