Comprehensive examination of the gastrointestinal tract. Examination of the gastrointestinal tract. Preparing for a gastrointestinal examination

Bowel examination. Who among us has not felt panic at the thought of such procedures? After all, just recently, the methods used to diagnose intestinal diseases were quite painful.

But progress does not stand still, and now new, painless examination methods are appearing that will not interfere with your normal well-being, and some of them will not even change the rhythm of your life.

Why examine the intestines?

The intestines are susceptible to a large number of diseases. These include inflammatory processes, damage, congenital anomalies, benign and malignant tumors. Therefore, timely diagnosis allows timely treatment to begin and prevent further development of the disease.

Typically, the main symptoms of intestinal diseases are:

• bowel disorder – frequent bowel movements or retention;
• pain in the abdomen or anus;
• the presence of mucus or blood in the stool;
• flatulence;
• vomiting, nausea;
• weakness, poor health.

Such symptoms are a reason to consult a doctor and undergo further examination.

What methods of intestinal examination exist?

Methods for examining the intestines differ in their information content and complement each other. In some cases, the diagnosis can be established during the initial examination of the patient using digital examination and anoscopy.

If necessary, further examination is carried out using methods such as:

• irrigoscopy;
• colonoscopy;
• ultrasound examination (ultrasound);
• Magnetic resonance imaging;
• capsule study.

One of the most informative ways to examine the intestines is the x-ray method (irrigoscopy). In this case, the patient takes a contrast mixture and, based on the time of its arrival in the intestinal sections, as well as on the pattern of the intestinal mucosa, conclusions are drawn about the motor function of the colon and the presence of inflammatory processes. It also determines the presence of pathologies, the shape and size of the intestine.

Colonoscopy allows you to examine the entire surface of the intestine, while it is possible to eliminate benign tumors (polyps), remove foreign bodies, and stop bleeding. With this procedure, it is possible to take tissue for a biopsy for further examination for malignant tumors.

Ultrasound examination of the intestine is used to diagnose children, pregnant women and the elderly. The study is carried out only after special preparation.

Magnetic resonance imaging provides complete information about the condition of the intestine, the presence of tumors, inflammation, ulcers, narrowings and perforations. The procedure is completely painless.

For capsule research, an enterocapsule equipped with a video camera is used. Moving through different parts of the digestive system, the capsule records information about the work of these parts, the condition of the mucous membrane and the presence of pathologies. This information is then processed by a specialist and a diagnosis is made. In this case, the patient leads a normal lifestyle. The enterocapsule is excreted from the body naturally.

It is better to prevent the disease

Today, there are many methods for diagnosing intestinal diseases that can detect the disease at an early stage or even prevent its occurrence. If desired, you can carry out paid, wherein Prices intestinal examination in Moscow are very affordable.

This article does not constitute medical advice and should not serve as a substitute for consultation with a physician.

In gastroenterological practice, there are a considerable number of different diseases, some of which can be very dangerous and lead to the development of severe complications.

According to statistics, every second person on earth suffers from one or another pathology of the digestive system. That is why it is extremely important to conduct a timely examination of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), which will allow the specialist to develop effective treatment tactics.

Today, there are quite a few modern diagnostic methods that make it possible to conduct a comprehensive study of all organs and parts of the gastrointestinal tract, identify the disease in the shortest possible time and with maximum reliability, clarify its stage, degree of prevalence and other features.

Research methods used in gastroenterology can be divided into three groups:

• physical;
• laboratory;
• instrumental.

Instrumental methods, in turn, can be divided into secretion studies, endoscopic and radiation studies.

The appropriateness of prescribing a particular examination will be determined by the doctor while working with the patient.

Contraindications

Each method of examining the stomach has its own contraindications, which should be checked with your doctor. Physical, radiation and laboratory techniques have virtually no contraindications - most of the prohibitions apply to endoscopic techniques, since they involve interference with the functioning of the stomach and intestines, and in some diseases they can cause side effects.

Absolute contraindications to gastroscopy, FGDS and other endoscopic techniques include:

• severe mental disorders;
• diseases of the cardiovascular system (heart failure, heart attack, atherosclerosis, aortic aneurysm);
• exhaustion of the body;
• serious disorders of the immune system;
• obesity;
• rachiocampsis;
• hematopoietic disorders;
• phlebeurysm;
• acute period of gastric ulcer.

Relative contraindications include: angina pectoris, exacerbations of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and upper respiratory tract, neurasthenia, enlarged lymph nodes.

To find out which methods are best for examining the stomach and intestines in a particular case, you need to show the doctor your medical record and, if necessary, undergo a comprehensive examination of the body.

Preparing for a gastrointestinal examination

To obtain accurate results of gastrointestinal diagnostics, you need to properly prepare for any examination. Preparation depends on the research method and most often consists of the following:

• diet which must be observed for 2-3 days before the examination - you need to eat only easily digestible foods, exclude foods that cause gas formation and bloating;
• taking medications to cleanse the intestines or perform enemas (need try to cleanse the digestive tract completely so that the doctor can examine the entire abdominal cavity);
• stop taking medications, especially those that affect digestion, thin the blood and contain iron (if this is not possible, you must inform your doctor about all medications);
• 1-2 days before your visit to the clinic, you need to give up serious physical activity, drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking.

Most studies are performed on an outpatient basis, but in some cases patients have to go to the hospital.

Adults usually do not require any additional medications, but children are sometimes given general anesthesia (for gastroscopy and other endoscopic examinations). When conducting diagnostics, the patient needs to listen carefully to the doctor and follow all his instructions so that the procedure is as informative and painless as possible.

Is there an alternative to gastroscopy?

Gastroscopy is an unpleasant research method, and many patients are interested in the question: is it possible to do without it during a comprehensive examination of the gastrointestinal tract? The use of modern computer techniques (CT, MRI) makes it possible to reduce discomfort to a minimum, but they do not always give an accurate result, and the procedure is quite expensive and is not offered in all medical institutions.

An alternative to invasive methods may be a capsule technique - endoscopy of the gastrointestinal tract using a capsule. Its essence is as follows: the patient swallows a capsule equipped with a miniature video camera that takes one picture of the organ once a second. It passes through the entire gastrointestinal tract, after which it leaves it naturally, and the doctor looks at the resulting images, identifies pathologies and makes a diagnosis. The capsule technique is considered the “gold standard” for diagnosing the digestive tract, but is used only in modern gastroenterological centers.

Some medical institutions use non-traditional methods for diagnosing diseases - for example, iridology. It is based on the theory that all pathological processes occurring in the body can be identified by examining the iris of the eye. The use of such diagnostic methods raises many questions among many specialists, and therefore cannot be considered an informative technique.

It is possible to do without the unpleasant procedure of probing the stomach and intestines, but if other diagnostic methods do not provide a complete picture of the disease, it is better to agree to gastroscopy.

Physical studies

The first stage of a gastroenterological examination is a consultation with a gastroenterologist or therapist, who must collect a history of the patient’s complaints and draw up a general clinical picture. The doctor conducts a more detailed examination using special methods: palpation, percussion, auscultation.

Palpation is a procedure in which the patient’s abdomen is felt without the use of any additional instruments. This method makes it possible to detect certain signs characteristic of certain diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, in particular, to identify the degree of tension in the peritoneal wall and painful areas. Palpation can be performed while the patient is standing or lying on the couch. In a standing position, palpation is performed in cases where it is necessary to examine organs located on the sides of the abdominal cavity.

Usually, simultaneously with palpation, percussion- a study that allows you to determine the boundaries of the location of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract by tapping. In gastroenterological practice, this technique is used mainly for studying the spleen and liver.

Diagnosis using auscultation involves listening to the sounds made by the organs of the gastrointestinal tract. To do this, the doctor uses a special instrument - a stethoscope. During the procedure, symmetrical areas of the body are listened to, and the results obtained are then compared.

The diagnostic studies described above are only primary and do not allow a specialist to accurately diagnose a particular gastrointestinal disease. So, for example, practical physical methods do not allow a specialist to identify organic pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract when their mucous membrane is predominantly affected. This requires a more complete examination, the plan of which is drawn up individually for each patient and may include a number of different clinical, laboratory and instrumental methods.

Lab tests

Laboratory diagnostics plays a vital role in identifying many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. At the discretion of the doctor, the patient may be prescribed blood tests to determine the following substances and enzymes:

bilirubin- a special substance formed after the breakdown of hemoglobin in erythrocytes and is part of bile. The detection of direct bilirubin in the blood may indicate a number of gastrointestinal pathologies associated with impaired bile outflow, for example, obstructive or parenchymal jaundice;

transaminases: aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) - these enzymes function in almost all organs of the human body, especially in the liver and muscle tissue. Increased concentrations of AST and ALT are observed in various liver diseases, including chronic ones;

gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (gamma-GT)- another enzyme, an elevated level of which indicates inflammation of the bile ducts, hepatitis or obstructive jaundice;

amylase- this enzyme is produced by the pancreas, and as part of its juice, amylase enters the intestines, where it promotes accelerated digestion of carbohydrates. If amylase levels in the blood are elevated, the patient most likely has some kind of pancreatic disease;

lipase- another enzyme produced by the pancreas, the level of which increases with pancreatitis and other pathologies of the digestive system.

In addition, a general stool analysis is required, which will allow the specialist to fully assess the functioning of the digestive system and detect signs of disorders and inflammation of various parts of the intestine.

In addition, when examining stool, microorganisms that cause infectious diseases can be detected.

A more detailed examination of stool is called a coprogram. With its help, the digestive and enzymatic activity of the stomach is assessed, signs of inflammation are identified, microbial activity is also analyzed, and fungal mycelium can be detected.

If necessary, a bacteriological study can be prescribed, that is, a determination of the microbial composition. This will detect intestinal dysbiosis and infections. There are also special tests for identifying antigens of microbial pathogens, which make it possible to identify viral infectious diseases.

Another common laboratory test widely used in gastroenterology is the occult bleeding test. This analysis is based on the detection of hidden hemoglobin in stool.

If the patient is taking iron supplements or other medications, the attending physician must be informed about this, since medications can significantly distort test results. Before donating blood, you must adhere to a special diet for several days, excluding fatty foods, meat, green vegetables and tomatoes from your diet.

If necessary, laboratory diagnostics of the gastrointestinal tract can be supplemented with studies such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) of feces and blood plasma.

Instrumental techniques

The most important section of a comprehensive examination of patients with gastrointestinal pathologies is instrumental diagnostics. It includes endoscopic, x-ray, ultrasound, electrometric and other diagnostic techniques.

The appointment of a particular study in order to obtain the most common information occurs at the discretion of the attending physician, depending on the existing clinical picture. Each of the instrumental methods makes it possible to assess the structural and morphological features of the organ under study, as well as its function. Most of these studies require special preparation from the patient, since their information content and reliability will depend on it.

Assessment of gastric acid secretion

Since most inflammatory diseases of the digestive system are characterized by changes in stomach acidity. That is why, during a diagnostic examination, it may be indicated to assess the secretion of gastric acid, necessary for adequate digestion of food, using a special technique called pH-metry. Indications for its implementation are peptic ulcer of the duodenum and stomach, chronic duodenitis, gastritis and other pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract.

In gastroenterology, there are several types of pH measurements: short-term (intragastric), long-term (daily), endoscopic. Each of these methods involves inserting a pH probe through the mouth or nasal opening into the corresponding part of the digestive system for a certain period of time. The acidity level is measured at a specific point using built-in electrodes.

With endoscopic pH-metry, the probe is inserted through a special instrumental channel of the endoscope.

Any type of pH measurement requires certain preparation. First, the patient should not smoke or eat food for at least twelve hours before the procedure. Secondly, several hours before the study, drinking any liquids is prohibited in order to avoid vomiting and aspiration. Additionally, you should consult your doctor about the medications you are taking.

Another common procedure used in gastroenterological practice for suspected gastritis, peptic ulcer and many other pathologies is duodenal intubation of the stomach. When studying the secretory function of the stomach using this method, all contents are first pumped out of the stomach, and then the basal secretion. After this, the patient is stimulated with secretion using special drugs or given a trial breakfast in the form of broth; after half an hour, a fifteen-minute secretion is collected, which is then studied in the laboratory. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia on an empty stomach.

Probing of the stomach is a procedure that has a number of contraindications. It cannot be performed in cases of severe pathologies of the cardiovascular system, gastric bleeding, or during pregnancy.

If the patient has contraindications to duodenal intubation of the stomach, secretion assessment is performed using a probeless method using the drug "Acidotest". The test is also carried out in the morning on an empty stomach. Analysis of the secretory function of the stomach is carried out by examining portions of urine after taking the drug.

Endoscopic techniques

Endoscopic examination of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract involves the introduction of special optical devices into its lumen.

Today, this is the most technologically advanced procedure that allows you to get a complete picture of the condition and functioning of the large and small intestines, as well as perform a biopsy - obtain a sample of material for further histological examination.

Endoscopic methods for examining the gastrointestinal tract include the following diagnostic procedures:

FGDS (fibrogastroduodenoscopy) is a whole complex of gastroenterological studies, which consists of examining the organs of the gastrointestinal Tartak using a probe. Depending on the disease being diagnosed, the patient may be prescribed procedures such as gastroscopy (study of the stomach), duodenoscopy (study of the duodenum), esophagoscopy (study of the esophagus); colonoscopy examination of the inner surface of the large intestine using a colonoscope inserted into the anus. Today, such an ultra-modern method as virtual colonoscopy is used, in which you can obtain a clear image of the intestinal walls using computed tomography; sigmoidoscopy a high-tech method of examining the rectal mucosa using a special optical device - a sigmoidoscope. It is inserted through the anus for just a few minutes and usually does not require anesthesia; ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) is an additional diagnostic procedure aimed at studying the condition of the bile ducts, into which a contrast agent is injected using endoscopic equipment. After this, an x-ray is taken; Capsule endoscopy is the most progressive way to examine all parts of the gastrointestinal tract. The patient must swallow a small capsule equipped with a mini video camera, which will transmit images to a computer as it progresses, and will then be released naturally.

This procedure makes it possible to diagnose oncological tumors and other pathologies with high accuracy;

Diagnostic laparoscopy is a procedure usually prescribed in cases where it is not possible to accurately determine the cause of the disease. During this procedure, a puncture is made in the anterior abdominal wall, through which carbon dioxide is first pumped in, and then endoscopic equipment is inserted. Using this visualization method, it is possible to detect bleeding, foci of inflammation and other pathologies, and, if necessary, immediately carry out therapeutic measures.

As a rule, endoscopic methods for examining the gastrointestinal tract are not used if the patient is allergic to anesthetic drugs, as well as pathologies associated with blood clotting disorders. In addition, they all require special training, which the attending physician will discuss in detail.

Radiation techniques

As the name suggests, radiation methods for studying the gastrointestinal tract usually include those that involve the use of radiation. The following methods are most widely used in gastroenterology:

Fluoroscopy or radiography studying the abdominal organs by taking x-rays. Usually, before the procedure, the patient needs to consume barium porridge, which is opaque to X-ray radiation and makes it possible to clearly visualize almost all pathological changes; abdominal ultrasound examination of the gastrointestinal tract using ultrasound radiation. A type of ultrasound is the so-called Doppler ultrasound, which allows one to evaluate the speed of blood flow and movement of organ walls; scintigraphy is the study of the activity of the gastrointestinal tract using radioactive isotopes that the patient consumes with food. The process of its advancement is recorded using special equipment; computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, these studies are prescribed only if absolutely necessary, if tumor neoplasms, cholelithiasis and other pathological conditions are suspected.

Histological methods

An examination of the gastrointestinal tract sometimes requires a biopsy - this is an analysis of pieces of mucosal tissue (biopsy samples) taken during an endoscopic examination. A biopsy is performed to make an accurate diagnosis, determine the stage and characteristics of the pathological process in gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastric and intestinal neoplasms, and to assess the effectiveness of treatment. Biopsies are processed accordingly and then examined under a microscope, which allows us to obtain a complete picture of the disease.

The disadvantage of the histological method is that it often causes side effects and bleeding.

Opportunities of modern gastroenterology

Today, many modern clinics offer their patients such a service as a comprehensive examination of the gastrointestinal tract, which can be completed both if you suspect a disease of any organ of the digestive system, and for preventive purposes. Comprehensive diagnostics involves the use of a combination of various techniques that allow one to assess the condition of the gastrointestinal tract and get the most complete picture of existing disorders.

Such an extended diagnosis may be necessary for those patients who suffer from a complex disease of unknown etiology, accompanied by metabolic disorders and other serious symptoms. The capabilities of modern gastroenterological clinics make it possible to conduct a comprehensive examination of patients using the latest generation medical equipment, with the help of which it is possible to obtain the most accurate research results in a short time.

The list of tests and studies performed may vary depending on the specific diagnostic program.

Pathology detected: should it be rechecked?

If gastrointestinal pathologies are detected, after a comprehensive diagnosis, the patient is prescribed a course of treatment, but there are situations when patients do not agree with the diagnosis. If the test was carried out in a free clinic using old equipment, it may indeed be faulty. To prevent unpleasant consequences, you can undergo follow-up diagnostics in a more modern medical facility.

Stages of a complete examination of the digestive organs and their cost

A complete examination of the gastrointestinal tract usually includes the following steps:

• consultations with specialists (therapist, gastroenterologist);
• blood tests: general, biochemical, liver tests, tests for infections, including hepatitis and Helicobacter pylori;
• Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity;
• gastroscopy.

The cost of a basic research program is about 20 thousand rubles, but may vary depending on additional procedures and the pricing policy of the medical institution.

Time to complete a full study

The time for complex diagnostics depends on the number of procedures that need to be completed - the basic program usually takes 1-2 days, but if additional studies are necessary, the period may take longer.

After 40 years, a full examination of the gastrointestinal tract is recommended once a year, even if there are no digestive problems. For people at this age, the risk of developing serious diseases, including cancer, increases significantly, and with early diagnosis, the chances of a full recovery increase significantly.

How to check the gastrointestinal tract quickly, cheaply and informatively?

For a quick and informative check of the gastrointestinal tract, you need to find a good gastroenterology clinic with modern equipment.

Diagnostics can be done at any public medical institution, where some services are provided free of charge, but in this case the time required to complete all procedures will increase significantly.

conclusions

1. Complex diagnostics of the gastrointestinal tract may include various procedures, depending on the primary diagnosis, age and well-being of the patient.
2. The key to obtaining accurate examination results is proper preparation., which begins a few days before your visit to the clinic.
3. Most diagnostic procedures are painless and safe, the exception is endoscopic techniques, which are associated with certain discomfort and the risk of side effects.
4. To reduce the time required for a complete examination of the digestive system, to reduce the likelihood of discomfort and misdiagnosis, you need to contact a good clinic with modern equipment.

A comprehensive examination of the gastrointestinal tract is the key to a healthy digestive system and a way to avoid serious health problems that can lead to digestive disorders.

Diagnostics should be carried out regularly even in the absence of symptoms of disease for preventive purposes and closely monitor the condition of the stomach and intestines.

Comprehensive Check Up diagnostic programs in the field of Gastroenterology are developed to identify disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, including in the early stages, and timely prevent the development of pathology.

Thanks to such programs, which include all the necessary tests and studies, patients in a short time have the opportunity to undergo a complete qualified medical examination of the digestive system.

At all stages of the Check Up program, SM-Clinic specialists provide their patients with comfortable support, and as a result, receive a detailed conclusion about the functioning of the body’s digestive system and the necessary recommendations.

Who needs Check Up programs in gastroenterology

• all healthy people once a year, even in the absence of complaints;
• persons with a hereditary predisposition to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• people with bad habits (alcohol abuse), constant stress, eating disorders;
• people with discomfort/or pain in the abdomen, nausea, heartburn, belching, problems with bowel movements
• those suffering from chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (as an annual routine examination).

Check Up programs Gastroenterology" at SM-Clinic

The goal of the program is to timely assess the condition of the digestive system organs and identify existing disturbances in its functioning at any stage of development.
Program cost: from 10,000 rubles.

Benefits of completing Check Up programs. Gastroenterology" at SM-Clinic

• Availability of our own laboratory, ensuring high accuracy and efficiency of analysis
• Comfortable service without expectations
• Experienced doctors and diagnostic specialists
• The latest technical equipment for instrumental examinations
• Detailed conclusion, specialist consultation and individual recommendations based on the results of the completed program

An intestinal examination will be required if the following phenomena are of concern:

• persistent constipation or diarrhea;
• the presence of various impurities (blood, mucus and others) in the feces;
• sudden weight loss not due to obvious reasons (for example, a strict diet);
• pain of various types in the anus or abdomen;
• presence of a foreign object in the intestine;
• bloating.

Diagnosis of the stomach is necessary if you suspect:

• gastritis, pancreatitis and peptic ulcer;
• internal bleeding;
• cholelithiasis;
• malignant tumors.

An examination is prescribed if you are often bothered by nausea with bouts of vomiting, pain in the left side of the abdomen, belching, or heartburn.

Existing methods

For digestive tract dysfunction, the following diagnostic methods are used:

• external examination (physical examination);
• laboratory research;
• instrumental diagnostics;
• radiation examination.

The first two methods help make a preliminary diagnosis. The latter confirm the assumptions and allow you to choose the optimal treatment.

Visual inspection

A physical examination involves assessing the condition of the skin and oral cavity, as well as superficial and deep palpation. If during the last procedure the patient experiences severe pain, then this symptom indicates abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract.

Additionally, during the physical examination, the area in the anal area is examined to detect fissures, tumors and hemorrhoids.

Laboratory research

In laboratory conditions, blood and stool tests are performed. The first is used to identify the presence of foci of inflammation in the body. Fecal analysis is prescribed if helminthic infestation and other disorders are suspected. The latter are diagnosed using a coprogram. This method is used to evaluate changes in the color, consistency and odor of stool, which may indicate dysfunction of the digestive system.

If necessary, an analysis is carried out for dysbacteriosis, which is characteristic of some gastrointestinal pathologies.

Instrumental diagnostics

To confirm a preliminary diagnosis, the following is used:

1. Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity. Prescribed for pain in the abdomen. Ultrasound helps to assess the location and degree of filling of the stomach and intestines. Also, with the help of a diagnostic apparatus, tumors of various types are detected.
2. Sigmoidoscopy. The method helps to identify changes in the structure of the intestinal mucosa.
3. Colonoscopy. The procedure is similar to sigmoidoscopy. The difference is that during a colonoscopy, tissue is collected for subsequent histological examination and (if necessary) tumors are removed.
4. Endoscopy. The method is similar to the previous ones, except that during this procedure the tube is inserted through the pharynx.
5. Laparoscopy. A minimally invasive operation that allows you to diagnose ascites, neoplasms, consequences of mechanical damage and other changes in the structure of the abdominal organs.

If appropriate opportunities exist, examination of the stomach is carried out using a gastropanel, which involves taking a special stimulant and subsequent blood tests. The method allows you to determine the rate of absorption of soy or food proteins by the body.

In some cases, capsule diagnostics is used, in which the patient needs to swallow two capsules with cameras. The procedure is similar to endoscopy.

Radiation examination

In case of detection of neoplasms or stones in the gastrointestinal tract, the following is used:

1. CT scan. Allows you to identify minor tumors and stones.
2. Irrigoscopy with barium. Provides comprehensive information about the condition of organs.
3. Radiosotropic scanning with contrast agent. Helps diagnose tumors and evaluate intestinal motility.

Many of the procedures described are painful and require the use of anesthetics. After diagnosing the gastrointestinal tract, complications rarely occur.

Section materials

Preparing for an appointment with a proctologist is a series of activities aimed at cleansing all parts of the intestines. Restriction of food intake, in some cases short fasting, cleansing enemas, and taking laxatives are indicated. To determine the problem, the doctor must see the condition of the mucous membranes and epithelium of all parts of the intestine. Therefore, it is necessary to empty the digestive organ before visiting a specialist.

Recently, more and more patients of different ages are faced with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. To make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe a suitable treatment method, the proctologist needs to visually examine the walls of the colon and assess the condition of the tissues. This can only be done using a colonoscope.

FGDS under anesthesia can reduce discomfort and discomfort during the procedure. The manipulation ensures the normal mental state of the patient. In this case, the specialist is not distracted by the patient when performing FGDS.

Now found in almost every second adult. In this case, periodic nausea, intestinal upset, heaviness in the stomach or indigestion are disturbing. But not every person consults a doctor about this. This attitude can lead to serious consequences, because any disease is easier to cure at an early stage. Therefore, if abdominal discomfort periodically appears, it is necessary to check the stomach and intestines. The examination will help to detect pathologies in time and prevent complications.

When to see a doctor

Only a doctor can determine whether the digestive system is functioning properly. Therefore, if the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is disrupted, it is necessary to contact a gastroenterologist. It is especially important to examine children in a timely manner, since their pathologies can progress quickly, which seriously affects the condition of the body.

• increased gas formation, bloating;
• nausea, periodic vomiting;
• constipation or diarrhea;
• the appearance of pain in the abdomen or side;
• feeling of heaviness after eating;
• frequent belching or heartburn;
• the presence of mucus, blood or undigested food in the stool;
• decreased appetite.

It is also recommended to periodically examine the gastrointestinal tract for people with chronic pathologies of the digestive system. This may be gastritis, peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, reflux, colitis, duodenitis, biliary dyskinesia. Older people need regular checks of their intestines to detect the presence of a tumor in time.

Diagnostic procedures

Even an experienced doctor cannot always determine the cause of the illness based on external symptoms. Moreover, not every person can describe what he feels. Therefore, the diagnosis of gastrointestinal diseases has its own sequence and cannot be done without instrumental and laboratory examinations. Some pathologies do not manifest specific symptoms at the initial stage, but gradually progress. Therefore, examination of the gastrointestinal tract is very important for the timely detection of diseases and prescribing the correct treatment. It is recommended that even healthy people undergo it periodically.

Before making a preliminary diagnosis and choosing examination methods, the doctor conducts a conversation with the patient. It is necessary to tell in detail about your feelings, what provokes them, when they arise. At the same time, the doctor is interested not only in the patient’s complaints. The specialist will definitely ask about habits, diet, and the presence of chronic diseases. It is also very important what illnesses parents and close relatives have. After this, the patient is examined. The doctor does this using physical methods.

These include palpation, percussion and auscultation. At first glance, it may seem that such an external examination is useless in determining the condition of the internal organs. But for an experienced specialist, even such an examination is informative. First, an examination of the oral cavity is performed, where the digestion process begins. The condition of the mucous membrane, teeth, and color of the tongue are important.

The examination begins with a conversation and general examination of the patient.

Then the doctor feels the patient’s stomach, determining whether the organs of the digestive system are enlarged, whether there are hardenings, scars, or enlarged veins. Palpation also allows you to determine the shape of organs, their pain and location. Auscultation or auscultation allows you to hear what sounds the intestines make as they work. Percussion is tapping, which allows you to clarify the shape, location and condition of internal organs.

After this, the doctor determines what other methods of examining the gastrointestinal tract the patient needs. There are quite a few of them, but usually 2-3 methods are chosen. It can be:

• pH-metry;
• fibrogastroduodenoscopy;
• probing;
• X-ray examination;
• colonoscopy;
• scintigraphy;
• CT or MRI;
• blood, urine and stool tests.

Instrumental examination methods make it possible to assess the condition of the mucous membrane of the digestive tract, the secretion of gastric juice, the level of acidity, and motor function. With their help, you can detect the presence of tumors, cysts, erosions or ulcers. Usually, to diagnose gastrointestinal diseases, the doctor prescribes FGDS and blood tests. Sometimes the bile ducts and pancreas are also required. Such a complete examination of the digestive system is necessary when it is difficult to make a diagnosis.

If a person doubts whether his digestive organs are functioning normally and whether he should go to the doctor, you can check the stomach and intestines yourself. To do this, you need to squeeze half a glass of juice from raw beets and leave it for a couple of hours. Then drink and observe bowel movements. If it happens quickly and the stool is beet-colored, it means the stomach and intestines are working normally. If your urine is colored and you don’t have bowel movements for a long time, you should consult a doctor.

Gastroscopy

To examine the condition of the gastric and duodenal mucosa, endoscopic examination or fibrogastroduodenoscopy is most often used. This is the most accurate method for identifying gastrointestinal diseases at the initial stage. Gastroscopy is a sounding. The patient swallows a special flexible tube with a camera at the end. With its help, the doctor can examine in detail the condition of the mucous membrane of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Probing allows you to timely diagnose peptic ulcers, inflammation of the mucous membrane, and take gastric juice for analysis to determine its acidity.

Endoscopic examination can cause discomfort to the patient, although modern devices for this make the procedure as comfortable as possible. But many patients refuse it due to fear of pain or vomiting. In this case, as well as to examine the small intestine, capsule intubation may be prescribed. This is a modern minimally invasive diagnostic method. The patient is asked to swallow a special capsule with a video camera. As it moves through the digestive tract, it will transmit an image to the monitor. Then the capsule comes out naturally.

Gastroscopy is the most informative method of examining the upper digestive tract

X-ray

X-ray diagnostics is the most accessible and cheapest examination method. It allows you to evaluate the thickness of the walls of organs, their shape and size, and see the presence of ulcers, erosions and neoplasms.

One of the types of x-ray examination of the gastrointestinal tract is irrigoscopy. This is the name of an examination using contrast agents. When examining the stomach, the patient is given a capsule of barium to drink, and to take pictures of the intestines, this substance is injected through the anus. Barium is opaque to X-rays, allowing for a more accurate image.

Ultrasound

Modern ultrasound diagnostic devices allow you to clearly see the size, location and shape of internal organs, the presence of foreign bodies and tumors. Usually, it is ultrasound that begins the diagnosis when a patient consults a doctor with complaints of abdominal discomfort. This method can be used for preventive purposes, for the timely detection of tumors, decreased intestinal motility, narrowing of the intestinal lumen, and disruption of the sphincters.

Ultrasound examination of the gastrointestinal tract is also used to confirm the diagnosis and to monitor the correctness of treatment. This is necessary for gastritis, gastroduodenitis, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, the presence of polyps or cysts, cholelithiasis, pancreatitis. Ultrasound is informative for examining the intestines. Some preparation is required before the procedure. And before the scan itself, liquid is injected into the intestines. This way you can detect the presence of polyps, tumors, and narrowing of the intestinal lumen.

Tomography

If difficulties arise in diagnosis, a computed tomography may be prescribed. It allows you to obtain information about the shape and size of the digestive organs, the condition of bones and muscles, the thickness of the abdominal wall, and the presence of foreign bodies. CT is more informative than x-rays, but the radiation exposure from such an examination is less.

More accurate information about the state of the gastrointestinal tract can be obtained using MRI. This way you can examine the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder and ducts. An MRI image allows you to evaluate the condition of blood vessels and lymph nodes, the presence of stones, cysts, polyps or tumors, and the structure of organ tissue.

Bowel examination

Due to the structural features and location of this organ, it is difficult to examine it. The condition of the duodenum can be determined by endoscopy through the esophagus. But the probe does not penetrate further. The rectum is viewed during colonoscopy. But the small intestine is more difficult to examine. To identify its pathology, a comprehensive examination using several methods is necessary.

The most commonly used is colonoscopy - examination of the rectum using a probe. It is inserted through the anus. Using a special camera at its end, you can examine the condition of the intestinal walls, the presence of tumors or stagnation of feces. During the procedure, you can take a sample of the mucous membrane for analysis or even remove small polyps. And retromanoscopy also allows you to assess the condition of the large intestine. In this case, a special probe is advanced to a distance of more than 30 cm. It is recommended that every person over 50 years of age undergo such an examination. This makes it possible to detect cancer at an early stage.

Analyzes

Any research methods require certain preparation, without which the result may be distorted. It is usually recommended to prepare for diagnosis 3-5 days before the procedure. There are specific recommendations for each method; the doctor should warn the patient about them. But there are also general recommendations that are related to the specific location and functioning of the digestive organs.

• Be sure to follow a diet a few days before the examination. To prevent gas formation, it is recommended to avoid legumes, brown bread, large amounts of fiber, and heavy foods. Approximately 10-12 hours before the procedure, you are not allowed to eat at all; sometimes you are not even allowed to drink water.
• It is advisable to avoid drinking alcohol and not smoking, especially 12 hours before the examination.
• Sometimes it is recommended to take certain medications that will help cleanse the gastrointestinal tract and improve digestion. These are enterosorbents, enzymes, drugs against nausea and flatulence.
• When examining the intestines, you need to take laxatives or do an enema for several days to cleanse it.
• Before probing, you can take an anesthetic or antispasmodic. Some people are also advised to take a sedative.

Contraindications

To check your gastrointestinal tract, you must first visit your doctor. It will help you decide which methods are best to use. After all, not all of them are equally informative; in addition, some have contraindications.

An instrumental examination is not performed if the patient has an infection, fever, or acute inflammation. It is also contraindicated in the presence of heart or lung disease, bleeding disorders, or allergies to certain drugs.

Regular examination of the gastrointestinal tract will help identify various pathologies at the initial stage. This will make it easier to treat them without complications.