Colonoscopy and upper endoscopy are the two most important medical procedures used to examine disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The tests are done to diagnose and manage various digestive complications. During both the procedures, flexible tubes with cameras are inserted through the anus into the rectum and colon to have a better view of the large intestine.
In this write-up, a well-known gastroenterologist surgeon in Kolkata sheds light on the primary differences between colonoscopy and upper endoscopy, the regions they explore and the conditions they help identify.
What is a colonoscopy and when to get one?
A colonoscopy is a medical examination that involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into your large intestine to have a view of the rectum, colon and anus to identify any abnormalities like polyps, inflammation or cancer.
It is an important screening procedure for detecting and preventing colorectal diseases. Individuals should consider getting a colonoscopy if they experience the following, says the best gastroenterology surgeon in Kolkata.
- Bleeding in the stool
- Severe abdominal pain
- Unexpected changes in the bowel movement
- Pus or mucus in the stool
- Bleeding in the rectum
- Frequent diarrhoea
Moreover, if you are above the age of 50 and have a family history of colon cancer or other related conditions, it is recommended to undergo a colonoscopy. It will help in early detection, thereby enabling timely intervention and improved treatment outcomes for colorectal health.
What is an upper endoscopy and when to get one?
Upper endoscopy just like colonoscopy is often performed by gastroenterology surgeon in Kolkata to identify disorders in the upper digestive tract. During the examination, a thin, long and flexible tube with a tiny camera at the end is inserted through the mouth to examine the conditions in the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The examination is done to diagnose conditions like acid reflux, ulcers, inflammation and tumors.
It is recommended that all individuals consider getting an upper endoscopy if they experience these symptoms for a prolonged period of time. Let’s know them.
- Swallowing difficulty
- Unexplained and sudden weight loss
- Frequent nausea and vomiting
- Bleeding in the upper digestive tract
Conclusion:
Both colonoscopy and upper endoscopy are important examinations to diagnose conditions in the GI tract. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms in your digestive system, make sure to consult a gastroenterologist surgeon and get them done.
