Summary: Esophageal problems are diagnosed with an array of tests, which can include a CT, barium x-ray, or EGD, so the proper treatment can be determined.
In the event you or a loved one experience a problem involving your esophagus, it's necessary to get it assessed so that the appropriate diagnosis and treatment method can be carried out. You may be wondering, what does that involve? At GI Associates & Endoscopy Center, our gastroenterology doctors can recommend a variety of tests to diagnose esophageal conditions that could be affecting your health. Do not allow an esophageal disorder to continue to negatively affect your life and health. For further details about the various examinations and treatments for esophageal disorders in Jackson, MS, request a consultation with one of our digestive health providers. Keep reading to find out more about each test.
When is an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) necessary?
Commonly referred to as an EGD, an esophagogastroduodenoscopy is an endoscopic procedure that is performed to examine the upper portion of the digestive tract. Additionally called an upper endoscopy procedure, it utilizes a high-definition camera fitted on the end of the endoscope, or tube.
The tube is passed down through the throat to help our providers visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, or the upper part of your small intestine. The camera transmits the images that are taken to our computer monitor so that our GI physician can analyze them. After the images are analyzed, our experts can determine a diagnosis and explain the appropriate treatment strategy best for you. An EGD might be an appropriate test if you’ve experienced the following symptoms:
- Swallowing difficulties
- Abdominal pain
- Persistent acid reflux
- Heartburn
- Vomiting blood
- Unintentional weight loss
- Recurrent nausea or vomiting
- Non-cardiac chest pain
- Anemia
- Functional indigestion (dyspepsia)
Our highly trained team at GI Associates & Endoscopy Center can offer further details about this exam and whether it might be advantageous to your health.
How might a CT scan detect and address esophageal problems?
A CT or computed tomography imaging approach is a highly useful tool for your digestive health specialist as it pertains to esophageal concerns. These images often function as the primary step in the process of examining the esophagus. As radiographic procedures, CT scans provide a clear picture of the area. Once captured, the pictures are then sent to your doctor, who examines them and can identify the steps to take to help ease your esophageal condition.
Our Jackson, MS digestive health specialists may recommend CT imaging to provide an accurate diagnosis of esophageal concerns. These CT scans can assist with the following:
- Determining if existing esophageal cancer has metastasized
- Identifying the presence of irritation or inflammation
- Detecting cancer of the esophagus
- Detecting suspicious areas in the esophagus
When would a barium x-ray be conducted?
Your GI physician might order a barium x-ray if a radiographic evaluation of your GI tract is warranted. These x-ray procedures are typically used to identify health issues, such as strictures, ulcers, hernias, inflammatory conditions, polyps, and tumors.
The barium utilized in the exam is a white, dry chalky powder. The powder is combined with liquid, allowing it to be easily swallowed. Once ingested, the solution will line the inner lining of the esophagus, stomach, and small bowel. The visibility of the barium material allows our digestive health physicians to evaluate for abnormalities that might not be visualized when conventional x-rays are captured.
There are different kinds of barium x-ray procedures that may be recommended. These procedures include a barium enema to look at the lower GI tract, a small-bowel follow-through (SMFT), and a barium swallow to assess the upper gastrointestinal tract. If you or a family member think you might benefit from tests for esophagus disorders, please request a visit with us without delay.
Get advanced esophageal treatment in Jackson, MS
When you find yourself in need of care for esophageal concerns, you can trust your health to the providers at GI Associates & Endoscopy Center. We will work closely with you to develop a treatment strategy that treats your condition. Reach out to us today to request a visit with one of our esophageal specialists in Jackson, to get the solutions you need.
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