What Are Endoscopy and Colonoscopy? How Are They Performed and Which Diseases Do They Diagnose?
Endoscopy and colonoscopy are two commonly used endoscopic imaging methods for the early diagnosis and treatment of digestive system diseases. These procedures allow detailed examination of internal organs such as the stomach, esophagus, small intestine, and large intestine. Used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, these procedures help detect many digestive system diseases at an early stage.
What Is Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a procedure that allows direct visualization of internal organs using a thin, flexible, and illuminated tube called an endoscope. Thanks to the camera at the tip of the endoscope, areas such as the stomach, esophagus, small intestine, and sometimes the bile ducts can be examined in detail.
Areas Visualized by Endoscopy:
- Stomach (gastroscopy)
- Esophagus (esophagoscopy)
- Duodenum
- Gallbladder and pancreas (ERCP)
- Respiratory tract (bronchoscopy)
Why Is Endoscopy Performed?
- Stomach pain and bloating
- Chronic nausea and vomiting
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Suspected stomach ulcer and gastritis
- Esophageal obstructions or difficulty swallowing
- Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection
What Is Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a type of endoscopy used to visualize the inner surface of the large intestine (colon). A colonoscope is inserted through the anus to examine the entire colon in detail. This procedure is commonly used for early detection of serious conditions such as colon cancer, polyps, and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Conditions Detected by Colonoscopy:
- Colon and rectal cancer
- Intestinal polyps
- Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
- Chronic constipation and diarrhea complaints
- Bloody stools and sudden weight loss
How Are Endoscopy and Colonoscopy Performed?
Both procedures are typically performed in a hospital setting, usually under sedation (light sleep). The patient undergoes the procedure comfortably and painlessly. Discharge usually occurs on the same day.
Endoscopy Procedure:
- The patient must have an empty stomach (usually fasting for 6-8 hours).
- After sedation, the endoscope is guided through the mouth into the stomach.
- The average procedure duration is 15-20 minutes.
Colonoscopy Procedure:
- Bowel cleansing is required before the procedure (using laxatives).
- The colonoscope is advanced through the anus into the large intestine.
- The average procedure duration is 30-45 minutes.
Which Diseases Are Diagnosed with Endoscopy and Colonoscopy?
Thanks to these two imaging methods, many digestive system diseases can be detected at an early stage:
| Disease | Endoscopy | Colonoscopy |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach ulcer | ✅ | ❌ |
| Gastritis | ✅ | ❌ |
| Reflux disease | ✅ | ❌ |
| Colon cancer | ❌ | ✅ |
| Polyps | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ulcerative colitis / Crohn’s | ❌ | ✅ |
| Intestinal obstruction | ❌ | ✅ |
Other Treatment Methods for Digestive System Complaints
Besides endoscopic imaging, the following methods are commonly used in managing digestive system diseases:
- Dietary Changes: Increasing fiber intake and avoiding gas-producing foods helps maintain regular digestive function.
- Fluid Intake: Drinking sufficient daily water helps reduce constipation complaints.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity increases bowel movements and facilitates digestion.
- Probiotics: Foods containing probiotics like yogurt and kefir support the balance of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system.
- Medication: Acid regulators, antispasmodics, and laxatives are prescribed individually by a doctor.
- Surgical Intervention: Surgery may be necessary in severe conditions such as tumors, intestinal blockages, or perforations.
Importance of Endoscopy and Colonoscopy
Endoscopy and colonoscopy allow for the detection of digestive system diseases before pain arises or tissue damage occurs. Early diagnosis makes treatment easier and more successful. It is especially important for individuals over 45 years old and those with a family history of colon cancer not to neglect colonoscopy screenings.
Disclaimer: All content on this site is for informational purposes only and is based on scientific sources valid at the time of preparation. For any health-related symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment, please consult your physician or authorized health institution directly.
