Endoscopy

Up to 70 million people experience digestive problems each year in the United States. If you have abdominal pain, bloating, gas, or other GI symptoms, see the specialists at Mirage Health in Chandler and Mesa, Arizona. Board-certified gastroenterologist Rajiv Sharma, MD, and the team offer endoscopy procedures to find the root cause of symptoms and provide lasting relief. Schedule an appointment at Mirage Health by phone or request one online today. 

What is an endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a thin tube (endoscope) inserted into your throat, esophagus, stomach, and small intestine to examine your upper digestive tract. It can detect signs of gastrointestinal problems requiring expert medical care. A capsule endoscopy uses a tiny capsule you can swallow instead of inserting an endoscope.

Which conditions can an endoscopy help detect and treat?

Endoscopies help detect the following conditions and more:

• Celiac disease
• Polyps
• Cancer
• Pancreatitis 
• Inflammation 
• Swallowing disorders
• Laryngitis
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Barrett's esophagus
• Crohn’s disease 
• Other gastrointestinal diseases
• Ulcers
• Bleeding 

This procedure can determine the cause of nausea, vomiting, heartburn, or diarrhea, as well as abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, difficulty swallowing, and more. 

It may be used in combination with other procedures to take a biopsy, stop bleeding, widen your esophagus, or remove a polyp or foreign object. 

Your specialist might use endoscopy to seal wounds, drain fluids, repair damage, inject medications, or complete a minor surgery.

How can I prepare for an endoscopy?

The Mirage Health team provides instructions for preparing for an endoscopy. You might need to fast, stop taking certain medications, and make arrangements for a family member or friend to drive you home afterward if you will be receiving a sedative. 

What are the different types of endoscopies?

Mirage Health offers the following types of endoscopies.

Traditional upper endoscopy 

Your provider inserts a tiny tube through your throat into your upper digestive tract. It can examine your esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine to diagnose swallowing problems and similar concerns. An endoscopy can also investigate the cause of reflux, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and other upper GI symptoms.

Endoscopic ultrasound

The Mirage Health team offers an endoscopic ultrasound. This advanced imaging procedure provides a detailed evaluation and images of your pancreas, liver, bile ducts, and surrounding tissues. 

Capsule endoscopy

Rather than inserting a tube into your upper digestive tract, a capsule endoscopy uses a swallowable capsule containing a camera. It captures pictures as it travels through your digestive tract to evaluate anemia, bleeding, small bowel disorders, and more. 

What can I expect after the procedure?

The Mirage Health experts review the results of your endoscopy and determine if you need further diagnostic testing or treatment, such as lifestyle changes, medication management, or a medical procedure. 

They create a customized treatment plan to ease any symptoms, enhance your quality of life, and help you avoid complications.

Find out if an endoscopy is right for you by calling the Mirage Health office or booking an appointment online today.