Gastroenterology is the study of the digestive system and its disorders. Gastroenterologists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the digestive tract, including diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, and rectum. To properly diagnose these conditions, gastroenterologists often use various tests to help them make an accurate diagnosis.
Below are 7 of the most common gastroenterology tests and where in Brooklyn or Westlake, OH, you can go to receive superior gastroenterology services.
#1 Endoscopy
An endoscopy is a procedure that involves the use of a thin tube with a camera attached at the end, called an endoscope. One of the most common uses of an endoscope in gastroenterology is for an upper endoscopy, which examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, which is the first section of the small intestine to check for ulcers, bleeding, or abnormal growths. Your doctor will probably recommend this if you have chest pain, chronic indigestion, abdominal pain, acid reflux, nausea, or vomiting.
#2 Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening. It allows the gastroenterologist to examine the rectum and the entire colon for pre-cancerous polyps and tumors.
#3 Barium Swallow Test
This test involves drinking a barium sulfate solution, which coats the inside walls of your esophagus and stomach. Then X-rays are taken, which allow doctors to see any potential blockages or abnormalities within those areas.
#4 Stool Tests
Stool tests involve collecting stool samples from patients for lab technicians to analyze for the presence of blood which is invisible to the eye. A stool-based test is usually recommended to screen for colon cancer.
#5 Capsule Endoscopy
This method involves swallowing a capsule that contains a tiny camera, which records images inside the digestive tract, particularly the small intestine, which cannot be accessed by a tube. The images will be downloaded to a computer to be interpreted by a doctor. You may be recommended this test if the doctor suspects you have an inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn’s disease, which causes diarrhea, vomiting, and blood in the stool, fistula, and mouth sores.
#6 Fibroscan
Fibroscan is a revolutionary medical device that allows doctors to diagnose and treat liver diseases using non-invasive imaging technology. In this case, ultrasound technology sends sound waves to the body and measures how quickly they return, which helps doctors assess the thickness of the liver, which can be used to detect fibrosis or cirrhosis. Fibroscan provides accurate results in just minutes, allowing for a quick diagnosis and treatment decision.
#7 Breath Testing
Breath testing measures levels of gasses released during the digestion process. High concentrations of hydrogen and methane gas indicate intolerances. GI doctors may recommend this to diagnose lactose intolerance, as well as the presence of H.pylori, which causes gastric ulcers or gastritis.
Gastroenterology Testing in Westlake and Brooklyn, OH
For superior gastroenterology testing services, choose North Shore Gastroenterology. Even after decades, our commitment to providing high-quality, personalized GI testing for Westlake, Brooklyn, and the surrounding communities remains strong. We offer all the tests mentioned here and more, and our caring team will ensure you have all the information you need to choose the right test for yourself and prepare for it. Our gastroenterologists have specialized training in performing advanced testing such as colonoscopy.
For any questions or to schedule an appointment, call our office today at (440) 808-1212, or use our convenient online request form.
