What You Should Know About Endoscopies for Coeliac Disease Diagnosis

If you’ve had blood tests that suggest you may have coeliac disease, your doctor will likely recommend an endoscopy with biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. An endoscopy is a procedure in which a tube with a camera is inserted into the throat and stomach to examine the small intestine. It is often used to diagnose coeliac disease because it can provide direct evidence of damage in the small intestine caused by gluten intolerance.

What Happens During an Endoscopy?

The endoscopy procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes and involves sedation so that you are relaxed and comfortable during the process. During the procedure, your doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube down your throat and into your stomach. The tube contains a camera, so that your doctor can observe any abnormalities or damage in your small intestine caused by gluten intolerance. The endoscope also contains tools for collecting tissue samples (biopsies) from your small intestine for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of coeliac disease.

Are There Risks?

Endoscopies are generally safe, but there are some risks associated with the procedure, including infection, bleeding, and perforation (tearing) of the intestinal wall. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before proceeding with the procedure so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to proceed. Additionally, if you have any conditions like severe asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder), it’s important to inform your doctor before undergoing an endoscopy so they can ensure all necessary precautions are taken.

Conclusion

Endoscopies are an important tool for diagnosing coeliac disease since they can provide direct evidence of damage due to gluten intolerance. While there are some risks involved with this procedure, they are generally minimal and should be discussed thoroughly with your doctor prior to proceeding with treatment. Ultimately, it is up to you as a patient to determine whether or not having an endoscopy is worth it – just remember that getting a proper diagnosis is key for managing and treating coeliac disease effectively!

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