When Should You Get an Endoscopy?
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Have any gastro or colorectal issue?
When unexplained symptoms like persistent stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, or frequent heartburn arise,
they can disrupt your daily life and raise concerns. An endoscopy can provide valuable answers.
This minimally invasive procedure uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the gastrointestinal
(GI) tract. Upper endoscopy assesses the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum through the mouth, while lower
endoscopy examines the colon and rectum through the anus.
Endoscopies aid in diagnosing conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, inflammation, and gastrointestinal
cancers, providing detailed insights for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
When Do You Need an Endoscopy?
There are several key indications for when an endoscopy may be necessary, including the following:
- Persistent Upper Abdominal Pain: Chronic pain in the upper abdomen can indicate conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, or even tumours. Endoscopy allows for direct visualisation of the stomach lining to determine the cause and assess for serious conditions like cancer.
- Trouble Swallowing (Dysphagia): Difficulty swallowing may signal serious underlying conditions, including strictures or cancers of the oesophagus. An endoscopy can help determine the cause and allow for potential treatment during the procedure.
- Nausea, Vomiting, and Bloating: Persistent nausea, vomiting, or bloating that does not respond to treatment may suggest a gastrointestinal obstruction or other serious issues. Endoscopy enables a detailed examination of the digestive tract to pinpoint the issue.
- Chronic Heartburn and Acid Reflux (GERD): Persistent heartburn or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease that does not improve with medication may require an endoscopy to assess for complications such as oesophagitis or Barrett's oesophagus.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without an obvious reason can be a sign of serious health issues, including cancers or chronic infections. An endoscopy can help identify underlying causes by examining the GI tract.
- Blood in Stool: Blood in stool can indicate bleeding from the upper or lower GI tract. An endoscopy is often necessary to locate the source of the bleeding and determine appropriate treatment.
- Changes in Bowel Habits: Sudden changes in bowel habits, such as increased frequency or consistency changes, may suggest gastrointestinal disorders. An endoscopy can help diagnose conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or cancer.
- Family History of GI Cancer: Individuals with a family history of gastrointestinal cancers may need regular screenings via endoscopy to monitor for early signs of cancerous changes in the digestive tract.
- Surveillance of Known GI Conditions: Patients with conditions like Barrett’s oesophagus, Crohn’s disease, or peptic ulcer may need periodic endoscopies to monitor progression and ensure timely intervention.
Endoscopy Screening Recommendations by Age
The Singapore Ministry of Health recommends initiating colorectal cancer screening for average-risk
individuals at age 50. Early detection is crucial for identifying precancerous polyps and diagnosing
cancers at an early stage, when treatment is most effective.
For younger individuals, endoscopy may still be necessary if specific risk factors are present. These
include a family history of gastrointestinal cancers or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms like
unexplained weight loss or blood in stool. In such cases, doctors may recommend screening before age 50 to
ensure timely diagnosis and intervention.
What to Expect
Preparation
Before your endoscopy, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. This typically includes a period of fasting,
usually starting at midnight the night before the procedure. In most cases, small sips of water or clear liquids may
be allowed during the fasting period; confirm this with your doctor. Inform your doctor about all medications,
allergies, and medical conditions. They may advise you to adjust your medication regimen temporarily.
During the Procedure
On the day of the procedure, the medical staff will explain the process and answer any remaining questions you may have. Depending on the type of endoscopy, you may receive sedation or anaesthesia to help you relax and minimise any discomfort during the procedure. Your doctor will discuss the options with you and address any concerns. Rest assured that endoscopies are generally safe and performed by experienced medical professionals who prioritise your comfort and safety.
Following the endoscopy, you will be monitored during the recovery period before being allowed to go home. You are advised to arrange for someone to drive you home, as you may feel drowsy or unsteady for several hours.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
Following an endoscopy, it is common to experience temporary side effects such as bloating, gas,
cramping, and sore throat. Rest is crucial due to lingering sedation effects, and strenuous activity
should be avoided. Most patients can resume normal activities, such as work or light exercise, within
24–48 hours, depending on how they feel.
To minimise discomfort, stay hydrated by gradually reintroducing fluids and opting for a soft diet,
including yoghurt, soup, and mashed potatoes. However, seek immediate medical attention for any severe
pain, fever, or persistent bleeding. It is normal to notice a small amount of blood if a biopsy was
performed or polyps were removed, but notify your doctor if bleeding continues or worsens.
The timing for receiving results varies. While some findings may be available immediately, biopsy
results may take several days. Your doctor will discuss the expected result timeline and schedule your
follow-up appointments accordingly.
Schedule an Endoscopy in Singapore
Early diagnosis plays a critical role in preventing and treating serious conditions like colorectal cancer. Regular endoscopy screenings can detect precancerous polyps and abnormalities before symptoms arise, allowing for timely intervention and significantly improving outcomes.
At Colorectal Practice, our team of skilled specialists is extensively trained in both diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy. With expertise in minimally invasive techniques and years of experience, we have collectively performed over 10,000 endoscopic procedures. Our depth of knowledge and collaborative approach ensures high-quality care tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule an endoscopy in Singapore.
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