Stomach & Colon Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a simple, safe procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera (called an endoscope) is gently passed through your mouth or rectum to look inside your digestive system. It helps the doctor see the lining of your stomach, esophagus, or colon in real time on a screen — much more detailed than an X-ray.

Your doctor may recommend endoscopy if you have persistent stomach pain, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or bleeding. It's also the gold standard for colon cancer screening (colonoscopy). Early detection through endoscopy can catch problems before they become serious — when treatment is most effective.

1. You will receive a mild sedative so you feel relaxed and comfortable — most patients doze off
2. The doctor gently inserts the endoscope (no cuts or incisions needed)
3. The camera sends live images to a screen so the doctor can examine the lining carefully
4. If needed, the doctor can take tiny tissue samples (biopsies) or remove polyps during the same session — painlessly
5. The whole procedure usually takes 10–30 minutes

10–30 minutes

• ✓Fasting for 6-8 hours
• ✓Bowel prep for colonoscopy (instructions provided)
• ✓Bring someone to drive you home

• •You'll be asked to fast for 6–8 hours before the procedure (or follow a special prep for colonoscopy)
• •The procedure itself is painless — you'll be sedated and won't remember it
• •You may feel slightly bloated or have a mild sore throat afterward — this goes away quickly
• •You go home the same day, within 1 hour after waking up
• •Your doctor will discuss the results with you before you leave or at a follow-up visit