A flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure, also called “flex sig,” is an alternative to a colonoscopy. This test is used to examine the lower part of the colon (large intestine) rather than the entire colon, as a colonoscopy does. A flex sig doesn’t usually require as much preparation as a colonoscopy does, and it’s a bit more
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5 Things to Remember Before Having an Endoscopy
An endoscopy is a procedure that involves a gastroenterologist (GI doctor) introducing an instrument (endoscope) into the throat (for upper endoscopy) or anus (for lower endoscopy). The purpose is to confirm— and, in some cases, treat – the underlying cause of persistent heartburn, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, and/or gastrointestinal bleeding. Since endoscopy is
Read MoreWhat’s a Manometry Test?
If you experience acid reflux or other esophageal issues, such as heartburn, you should consult with a gastroenterologist to determine what’s wrong. In most cases, gastroenterologists can review symptoms and the patient’s medical history to figure out a diagnosis. However, there are situations when this information is not enough to find the problem. So, if
Read MorePre-Colonoscopy Preparation Tips
The preparation for a colonoscopy is the least-looked-forward-to part of the colonoscopy, but it is necessary to ensure a thorough and safe procedure. Fortunately, most colonoscopies performed today require only a day’s preparation, whereas prior years required several days’ worth. The prep is done in order to give your GI doctor an unobstructed view during
Read MoreFive Reasons You Need to See a Gastroenterologist Today
If you have a digestive issue that isn’t improving with over-the-counter medications, then it is in your best interest to have an evaluation by a skilled gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist, or GI doctor, is a physician who diagnoses, prevents, and treats diseases and disorders of your digestive tract and related organs. Let’s talk about some of
Read MoreWhat Is Rubber Band Ligation For Hemorrhoids?
Varicose veins that develop in or around the anus or rectum are called hemorrhoids. Painful, itchy, and sometimes bleeding, hemorrhoids require attention from a GI doctor. There are treatments available to help bring relief from this common condition. Rubber band ligation can relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Here are the details you should know :
Read MoreH.Pylori Symptoms and Tests
If you have an H. Pylori infection, you are not alone. Around 44 percent of the population in the world carry H. Pylori. H. Pylori is a type of bacteria that resides in your digestive tract and is harmless unless it affects your stomach lining. Mostly, children get H. Pylori infections, but adults can also
Read MoreThe Risk Factors for Colon Cancer
The rate of people being diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year has dropped since the mid-1980’s, mainly because more individuals are getting screened and changing their lifestyles to decrease risk factors. According to Cancer.org, incidence rates dropped by 1% each year between 2013 to 2017. Even so, results of colon cancer awareness surveys show that
Read MoreWhat is FibroScan® And How Can It Help With Fatty Liver?
Nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD) refer to liver disorders that affect individuals who consume little to no alcohol. As the name implies, this condition results in the build-up of excess fat in the liver. It affects about one-quarter of the United States population, making it one of the most common types of chronic liver disease.
Read MoreWhat Is an Anoscopy Procedure Used to Diagnose?
Anoscopy is exactly what it sounds like: it is a procedure that involves your gastrointestinal (GI) specialist inserting a small, tubular instrument (anoscope) into your anus to view its lining and that of your rectum. In a related procedure known as high-resolution anoscopy (HRA), your GI specialist uses anoscope along with a colposcope to better
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