When Is an Endoscopy Needed?

Dealing with gastrointestinal issues can be challenging, especially when the cause isn't immediately clear. Fortunately, there are minimally invasive methods to see what's happening inside the digestive tract. If you're experiencing pain or irritation, your gastroenterologist might suggest an endoscopy to gain a clearer view of the underlying problem. Getting an endoscopy in Maryland is easy here at Bowie Health Internal Medicine.

When Do You Need an Endoscopy?

To examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the upper part of your small intestine, our gastroenterologist uses endoscopy to determine the source of your symptoms. If you're experiencing persistent pain or ongoing heartburn, there may be an underlying condition that requires further investigation.

Common symptoms that could lead your gastroenterologist to recommend an endoscopy include:

• Vomiting

• Nausea

• Difficulty swallowing

• Unexplained weight loss

• Anemia

• Bleeding

• Pain

Endoscopies are useful for detecting a range of issues, including:

• Ulcers

• Celiac disease

• Gastritis

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

• Cancer

During an endoscopy, a thin scope is inserted through your mouth to examine the inner lining of your gastrointestinal tract. This procedure allows your doctor to take biopsies if needed and even address some issues directly using the endoscope. Getting an endoscopy in Maryland is important in identifying potentially serious conditions before they escalate. Delaying this procedure could allow a condition to worsen and become more difficult to treat, so it's important not to postpone an endoscopy if your doctor recommends it.

Getting an Endoscopy in Maryland

Find out what could be happening inside your gastrointestinal system. Bowie Internal Medicine is here to help. Please contact our office to set up a consultation.