Is an Endoscopy Necessary for My Stomach Pain? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Is an Endoscopy Necessary for My Stomach Pain?

Hello Ms. <br>EVA： For individuals under 40 years of age without significant swallowing difficulties, melena, or weight loss, it is advisable to start with medication and dietary improvements (less sugar, less acidity, and smaller, more frequent meals). <br>However, if there are

Is it necessary to undergo an endoscopy?

Hello, doctor.
About two years ago, I experienced stomach pain, which occurred when I was hungry, and I also felt pain after eating.
Later, the doctor mentioned that I might have a slight gastric ulcer (at that time, I did not undergo an endoscopy).
Yesterday, I felt discomfort in my stomach again, with bloating and pain, and I kept burping.
When I burp, I feel a slight soreness in my throat, but I feel much better afterward.
Today, I don't have any major issues; I just feel like burping and have some bloating.
Do I necessarily need to have an endoscopy, or can I first see a doctor for medication? Thank you.

EVA, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/08/21

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Ms.
EVA: For individuals under 40 years of age without significant swallowing difficulties, melena, or weight loss, it is advisable to start with medication and dietary improvements (less sugar, less acidity, and smaller, more frequent meals).
However, if there are significant psychological concerns, an endoscopy can be performed to alleviate any doubts.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian

Reply Date: 2007/08/21

More Info

When it comes to stomach pain and the potential need for an endoscopy, it's important to consider several factors regarding your symptoms, medical history, and the potential benefits of the procedure.

Firstly, endoscopy, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a procedure that allows doctors to visually examine the upper digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as peptic ulcers, gastritis, and even cancers. Given your history of stomach pain and the previous indication of a possible ulcer, an endoscopy could provide valuable insights into the current state of your gastrointestinal health.

Your symptoms of stomach discomfort, bloating, and the sensation of needing to burp, along with the occasional acidic feeling in your throat, are concerning. These could indicate a variety of gastrointestinal issues, including gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or even a recurrence of peptic ulcers. While it is possible that your symptoms could be managed with medication, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or antacids, the underlying cause needs to be identified to ensure appropriate treatment.

In general, if you have persistent symptoms, especially those that have changed or worsened, an endoscopy is often recommended. This is particularly true if you experience alarming symptoms such as significant weight loss, difficulty swallowing, persistent vomiting, or if you have a family history of gastrointestinal cancers. Even if your symptoms seem manageable at the moment, they could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires attention.

If you are hesitant about undergoing an endoscopy, it may be reasonable to consult with your physician first. They can evaluate your symptoms in detail, conduct a physical examination, and possibly order preliminary tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies, to rule out other conditions. Based on this assessment, they can provide guidance on whether an endoscopy is necessary or if a trial of medication is appropriate.

It's also worth noting that while endoscopy is generally safe, it does carry some risks, such as bleeding, infection, or perforation of the gastrointestinal tract, though these complications are rare. The benefits of obtaining a clear diagnosis often outweigh these risks, especially in cases where symptoms are persistent or concerning.

In summary, while it may be tempting to try medication first, given your history and current symptoms, an endoscopy could be a crucial step in diagnosing and treating any underlying issues effectively. Consulting with your healthcare provider will help you make an informed decision about the best course of action for your health.

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