When you or a loved one experience an issue with your esophagus, it’s imperative to get an assessment from a medical professional so that the proper diagnosis and treatment strategy can be made. You might be wondering, how does that happen? At Austin Gastroenterology, our gastroenterology doctors conduct certain types of tests to identify esophageal concerns that may be interfering in your health. Don’t allow an esophageal concern to continue to negatively affect your life. For more information about the testing procedures and treatments for esophageal disorders in Austin, TX, request a visit with one of our GI doctors. Read below to discover how individual tests work.
How does an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) work?
Commonly referred to as an EGD, an esophagogastroduodenoscopy is an endoscopic procedure that is performed to assess the upper portion of the digestive tract. Additionally called an upper endoscopy procedure, it utilizes a special camera connected to the end of the endoscope, or tube. To begin the exam, the tube is gently advanced down through your throat to help our physicians visualize the esophagus, stomach, and upper portion of the small intestine, or duodenum. The camera transmits the pictures that are captured to a computer screen so that our GI specialist can examine them. Once the images have been evaluated, our team of GI providers can determine a diagnosis and explain the proper treatment strategy necessary for your needs. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy test could be an ideal test if you’ve experience the following symptoms:
- Functional indigestion
- Vomiting blood
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Non-cardiac chest pain
- Heartburn
- Anemia
- Swallowing difficulties
- Recurrent acid reflux
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
Our experienced team at Austin Gastroenterology can offer further information about this procedure and if it could help address your needs.
How does a CT scan detect and address esophageal conditions?
A computed tomography or CT imaging approach is a highly useful tool for your gastroenterologist as it pertains to esophageal concerns. These images serve as the initial step when assessing the esophagus. As x-ray-based exams, CT scans generate a clear picture of the area in question. Once taken, these x-rays are then shared with your physician, who evaluates them and can discuss the next approach to take to help ease the symptoms of your esophageal disorder.
Our Austin, TX gastroenterology specialists may recommend CTs to provide an accurate diagnosis of esophageal disorders. These scans can provide assistance with:
- Detecting cancer of the esophagus
- Detecting if esophageal cancer has metastasized
- Detecting irritation or inflammation
- Detecting suspicious areas in the esophagus
When would a barium x-ray be needed?
Your GI physician might order a barium x-ray when a radiographic evaluation of your digestive tract is warranted. It is typically conducted to detect health concerns, such as hernias, tumors, ulcers, polyps, strictures, and inflammatory conditions.
The barium itself is a white, dry chalky powder-like material. This powder is mixed with liquid enabling it to be easily swallowed. When it has been ingested, the barium solution will coat the inside walls of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. The visibility of the barium material allows our GI doctors to screen for irregularities that might not be seen when normal x-rays are taken.
There are different types of barium x-ray tests that may be recommended. These variations include a barium enema to examine the lower GI tract, a small-bowel follow-through (SMFT), and a barium swallow to evaluate the upper gastrointestinal tract. If someone you love thinks you could benefit from an esophageal exam, please request a consultation with our team today.
Get personalized esophageal treatment in Austin, TX
Should you need care for esophageal problems, look no further than the experts at Austin Gastroenterology. We will work closely with you to design a treatment protocol that treats your needs. Reach out to us now to request a consultation with one of our esophageal specialists in Austin, TX to identify the solutions you need.
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