Do You Have An Ulcer
Think you Might Have an Ulcer?
That burning sensation in your abdominal area may be the result of an ulcer. It was once believed that stress, Heavy drinking, or the over ingestion of acidic foods were the common causes for ulcers. Now, doctors know that the infection is actually due to a certain type of bacteria called H. Pylori. However, stress and foods are believed to help aggravate an ulcer (if you have one) by destroying the natural lining of your stomach. If you are experiencing pains that you believe to be due to an ulcer, contact a Gastroentorologist about setting up an appointment for a gastroscopy procedure, or an examination of the inside of your upper gastro-intestinal tract. It is also a good idea to prepare yourself for what this procedure entails (which is nothing to worry about), but take a few minutes to understand the gastroscopy procedure:
Before the Gastroscopy Procedure:
1. The examiner will ask that you fast for approximately 6 – 8 hours prior to examination.
2. The examiner will ask for medical information (like allergies or diseases) and types of medication you may be on. Be sure to be honest and tell the examiner anything necessary so that you can risk injury to yourself by preparing the examiner of the risks that may be involved.
3. Finally, you will be given a consent form that gives the examiner the authority to perform any other procedures that may be necessary during your examination.
The Gastroscopy Procedure:
The examination may be conducted in an emergency room and it is likely that you may be sedated during the process. The examination begins when the examiner looks into your stomach by using an endoscope (or a small flexible tube that holds a tiny camera and light). The endoscope is not like an X-ray machine; instead, the small camera takes pictures of the actual surface of the stomach. These pictures are later studied and evaluated to find out if there are any abnormalities within your stomach region. The entire examination usually takes one day to complete and it is common that you are allowed to leave the hospital that very same day.
An ulcer is treatable, and when treated properly, you can go about living your life comfortably. Ulcers should not be taken lightly. If there is blood in the urine or feces, you should contact a Gastroentorologist immediately. If you are unsure whether or not you have an ulcer, a gastroscopy procedure will help inform you of the possibility of your illness. So, check with your insurance provider to see if a gastroscopy procedure is covered under your policy and give your Athens urgent care facility a call.