Endoscopy is a minimally invasive medical technique used to examine the digestive tract and diagnose digestive conditions. This guide helps you understand what endoscopy is, how endoscopy is performed, and where to get an endoscopy test in Lahore.
What is Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to examine the digestive tract visually. It utilizes a thin tube structure called an endoscope, which features a light source and a high-definition camera at its tip. The examiner inserts this tube into the patient’s mouth and moves it down the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.
This procedure helps doctors detect ulcers, inflammation, tumours, and bleeding. It is a minimally invasive procedure and doesn’t require large incisions. Early diagnosis and treatment of digestive diseases is now possible in Pakistan as more health centres provide endoscopy tests.
When to Consider Endoscopy
Your doctor may recommend an endoscopy test if you experience the following symptoms:
- Persistent heartburn
- Acid reflux
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained nausea
- Chronic abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Black stools
- Family history of gastrointestinal cancer
Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to faster recovery and better outcomes.
Why is Endoscopy Important?
Endoscopy is a valuable procedure as it allows doctors to directly examine your gastrointestinal health. It assists health care providers for various reasons:
- Early detection of diseases like cancer
- Precise evaluation of symptoms for proper diagnosis and treatment plans
- A minimally invasive procedure that allows the removal of polyps and internal bleeding
- Tissue Biopsies
Endoscopy is a small, quick, and minimally invasive procedure that allows faster recovery, fewer complications, and an effective treatment plan.
Types of Endoscopy in Lahore
There are different types of endoscopy procedures that help doctors examine specific areas. The following are common endoscopy tests in Lahore:
Upper GI Endoscopy(EGD)
Upper GI Endoscopy is a procedure that inspects the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine for common issues like ulcers or gastritis.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is a process that uses an endoscope. It is used to examine the entire colon and rectum to detect issues like polyps or colorectal cancer.
Capsule Endoscopy
Capsule Endoscopy is a procedure that allows examination of the small intestine using a capsule camera, which, when swallowed by the patient, captures images as it moves through the digestive tract. It helps in the detection of Crohn’s disease, small bowel tumours, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Endoscopic Ultrasound( EUS)
Endoscopic Ultrasound is a procedure that uses an ultrasound scope attached to an endoscope to provide images of the esophagus, stomach, and pancreas. It is used to detect pancreatic cysts, bile duct tumours, and stomach cancers.
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure that uses endoscopy and fluoroscopy(X-ray Imaging) for the treatment and diagnosis of bile duct, pancreatic diseases, and gallstones.
Diseases Detected by Endoscopy
Endoscopy can reveal a wide range of gastrointestinal and related conditions for diagnosis and effective treatment plans. Here are some common diseases detected by Endoscopy:
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disease in which your stomach persistently has acid reflux, which can severely damage your esophagus. Common symptoms you may feel are heartburn, chest pain, chronic cough, and difficulty swallowing.
Peptic Ulcers
Peptic Ulcers are open sores on the inner lining of the stomach and small intestine. The typical symptoms for peptic ulcers are upper abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and black stools.
Esophageal Strictures
Esophageal Strictures are an abnormal narrowing of the esophagus, which makes swallowing difficult. The common symptoms are difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, chest pain, and regurgitation of food or liquids.
Esophageal Varices
Esophageal Varices is a condition in which nerves in your esophagus swell and become enlarged. Common symptoms are vomiting large amounts of blood, black stools, lightheaded, and severe pain.
Gastrointestinal Cancer
Gastrointestinal Cancer is a tumour that affects the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, anus, pancreas, liver, colon, and rectum. The common symptoms of Gastrointestinal Cancer are unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, and severe abdominal pain.
Celiac Disease
Celiac Disease is a chronic autoimmune disease that mainly affects the small intestine and is caused by the consumption of gluten. The symptoms of Celiac Disease are chronic diarrhea, weight loss, bloating, and fatigue.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal Cancer is the cancer of the large intestine or rectum caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells, often starting as polyps. Common symptoms are blood in the stools, changes in bowel habits, and abdominal cramps.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a condition that causes inflammation of the small intestine and gastrointestinal tract. The symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fever, fatigue, weight loss, and abdominal pain.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative Colitis is a long-term condition where the colon and rectum become inflamed. The common symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis are bloody diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and urgency to defecate.
Bile Duct Stones & Tumors
Bile Duct Stones is a condition where digestive fluids turn into hardened stones and block the flow of bile from the liver to the intestine. However, Bile Tumours are growths that can form ducts, causing similar blocks and complications. Common Symptoms of Bile Duct Stones & Tumors are jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic Cancer arises when cells from the pancreas begin to multiply out of control and form a mass. These cancerous cells can invade other organs. Common symptoms are jaundice, weight loss, and abdominal pain.
Small Bowel Tumors
Small Bowel Tumors are small growths in the small intestine. The common symptoms of Small Bowel Tumors are chronic bleeding, iron deficiency, anemia, and weight loss.
Endoscopy helps doctors detect diseases early. It allows for biopsy collection and minimally invasive treatments. Each clinic has different endoscopy charges in Lahore, depending on the physician’s experience and the clinic’s facilities.
Where Can You Get a Colonoscopy in Lahore?
Lahore has many reputable hospitals and specialized centers that offer endoscopy with modern equipment. Omar Hospital, located in Johar Town, is known for gastrointestinal care. The hospital offers endoscopy and related services. The staff includes trained doctors and nurses. The endoscopy unit is equipped with good medical tools. Recovery areas are available for patients after the test.
Consult the Best Gastroenterologist in Lahore | Dr. Fahd Aziz Rana
If you need an endoscopy, choose a doctor you trust. Dr. Fahd Aziz Rana is one of the most trusted names. He practices at Omar Hospital (Johar Town). He is known as the best gastroenterologist in Lahore. Whether you have pain, bleeding, or a need for screening, book your appointment with Dr. Fahd Aziz Rana.
Dr. Fahd has many years of experience. He handles different types of gastrointestinal cases. During the visit, he takes time to explain the reason for the test. He also gives clear instructions for preparation. His calm way of working helps patients feel relaxed. You can call Omar Hospital or visit their reception to book a consultation. Early booking helps you get the procedure done without delay.
