Just as it sounds; an endoscopy clinic is a specialized medical facility where endoscopic procedures are done. It’s a dedicated space equipped with the necessary tools for examining internal organs using endoscopes.
Before you’re cleared to proceed with the exams in a good endoscopy clinic in Singapore, you can expect a thorough pre-procedure briefing to ensure that you’re informed and comfortable.
The environment also prioritizes privacy and safety. Once approved for endoscopy and inside the clinic, the endoscope is inserted to investigate organs or cavities directly.
But are endoscopies necessary, and which patients should have them? Find all the details in this article.
Is it Necessary to have an Endoscopy?
Endoscopies are used in the diagnosis of various gastrointestinal conditions. They provide direct visualization of the digestive tract and aid in the detection of abnormalities like ulcers, inflammation, and tumors.
But not every suspected gastrointestinal condition demands endoscopies which is why many people ask; is it necessary to have an endoscopy? Here’s the answer;
An endoscopy may be necessary if you’re experiencing persistent digestive symptoms like abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding or difficulty swallowing. In each of these instances, an endoscopy can help you identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.
What’s more, endoscopies are also preferred for routine screening in certain populations. For example, it may be recommended if you have a family history of gastrointestinal cancers or if you live with chronic conditions like Barrett’s esophagus.
It is also worth pointing out that depending on your pain tolerance levels, you may experience some level of discomfort during your endoscopy. But it shouldn’t hurt. Also, even though endoscopies may come with minimal risks, the potential benefits in terms of accurate diagnosis and timely intervention often outweigh these concerns.
Which Patients Should Undergo Endoscopy?
An endoscopy is a fairly quick procedure lasting between 30 minutes and two hours. While it has very good success rates for disease diagnoses and treatments, there are specific cases that may not warrant a visit to an endoscopy clinic in Singapore. This explains why so many people ask; which patients should undergo endoscopy? Here’s a quick list;
· Patients who need to Confirm Diagnoses
You may be recommended a visit to an endoscopy clinic in Singapore to diagnose underlying issues or confirm a diagnosis. This is important as this procedure also allows for the collection of tissue samples (biopsy).
The tissue sample collected can be used to test for various diseases and conditions. It is particularly helpful in instances where there is a need to investigate conditions like anemia, bleeding, inflammation, or persistent diarrhea.
Endoscopy is also a key tool in the detection of certain cancers of the upper digestive system. Thanks to its ability to directly visualize and obtain samples, it helps ensure a precise diagnosis which healthcare professionals can use for tailoring effective treatment strategies.
· Patients who need help Investigating Symptoms
Endoscopy may also be recommended if you’re getting digestive symptoms like heartburn, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or gastrointestinal bleeding. In particular, it comes in handy when these specific issues demand investigation.
It is used as a diagnostic tool, providing a firsthand look at the internal workings of the digestive system. This direct insight helps in determining the root cause of these symptoms.
Essentially, it allows for a more accurate diagnosis. Armed with this information, healthcare providers can formulate targeted plans to alleviate discomfort and address the underlying issues contributing to these symptoms.
· Patients who need Precision Intervention for Digestive Disorders
Endoscopy isn’t just about diagnosis. It’s also a therapeutic tool. Specialized instruments can be guided through the endoscope to address specific problems within the digestive system.
Whether it’s stopping bleeding by cauterizing a vessel, widening a narrow esophagus, clipping off a polyp, or removing a foreign object, endoscopy allows for targeted and precise interventions. This minimally invasive approach not only treats current issues. It also prevents potential complications and offers patients a streamlined and effective solution to their digestive concerns.
Who Should Not Have Endoscopy?
Endoscopies also come with a few risks. These risks may be worsened by not being a suitable candidate for the procedure.
So, when contemplating a visit to an endoscopy clinic in Singapore, you will want to only visit a facility that will take time to assess your individual health circumstances before giving you the green light to proceed with the procedure. That said, endoscopy may not be recommended for you if you all in any of the groups below;
- Individuals with Severe Breathing Problems: Endoscopy involves sedation. Sometimes, it requires patients to lie flat on their backs for extended periods. For individuals with severe breathing issues, such as those with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or severe asthma, the sedation and positioning during the procedure could pose significant risks to their respiratory function.
- Patients with Unstable Vital Signs: Endoscopy procedures typically involve sedation. This can affect vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Individuals who are currently experiencing unstable vital signs, such as those with severe cardiac issues or uncontrolled hypertension, may be at increased risk of complications during the procedure.
- Those Who Have Difficulty Lying Flat for Long Periods: As already explained, endoscopy often requires patients to lie still on their backs for the duration of the procedure. This can range from several minutes to over an hour depending on the complexity of the examination. Patients with conditions that make it difficult to maintain this position for extended periods, such as severe back pain, may not be suitable candidates for endoscopy. This is largely due to the discomfort and potential risks associated with prolonged immobility.
- Individuals with Digestive Tract Problems: Now, endoscopy is commonly used to diagnose digestive tract issues. However, certain pre-existing conditions within the digestive system may complicate the procedure or increase the risk of complications. For example, individuals with severe gastrointestinal bleeding or perforations may require alternative diagnostic approaches to avoid exacerbating their condition.
Closing Thoughts
Endoscopy serves as a versatile and essential procedure in diagnoses, symptom investigation, and targeted treatment for a range of digestive issues. So, when recommended a visit to an endoscopy clinic in Singapore, see to it that you visit the facility.
