What is an endoscopy like?

What is an oncologic endoscopy like?

In this quick video, which you’ll finish faster than your coffee, Dr. Mariangela Rivera explains not only what the doctor is looking for, but also how the procedure will feel, what you’re likely to see and what happens after the endoscopic procedure is finished.

What symptoms might make a doctor decide to perform an endoscopy?

For a dedicated head and neck surgeon like Dr. Rivera, there are several symptoms that suggest the need for an oncologic endoscopy to get a greater understanding of what could cause the symptoms and how to treat them. Symptoms that might lead to an endoscopy include:

• Trouble swallowing, or a persistent feeling like something is stuck in your throat
• Ongoing heartburn or acid reflux that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatment
• Persistent or frequent nausea and vomiting alongside other symptoms
• Severe or ongoing pain in the upper abdomen that doesn’t go away
• Vomiting or coughing up blood or seeing black or tarry stool
• Anemia that can’t be explained
• Unexplained chest pain alongside other symptoms
• Changes in bowel habits, including constipation, diarrhea, or changes in color or consistency 

Is an endoscopy painful?

In the video, Dr. Rivera showcases a special nasal spray that numbs the area before the camera is placed. This helps to minimize discomfort and create an environment where you can relax while the doctor performs the procedure.

Dr. Rivera also noted that the patient is shown what the camera looks like and what feelings they should expect. She explained that the doctor will explain what they’re doing and what they see, as well as showing the patient afterward what they saw and what the images taken by the camera may mean.

For Dr. Rivera, it’s all about making sure patients are informed, prepared and a partner in the process of discovering the cause of their symptoms and deciding on a treatment plan.