Should You Get Another Endoscopy for Stomach Issues?

Q: Should You Get Another Endoscopy for Stomach Issues?

Hello： (1) If you are asymptomatic, there is no need for another gastroscopy. <br>It is important to maintain good daily habits and dietary practices, and to follow up if symptoms occur. <br>(2) Typically, feces in the rectum will be expelled first; this area tends to retain wate

Should a gastroscopy be performed for diagnosis?

Hello Doctor: Last August, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which diagnosed me with grade B gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Since then, I have experienced gastric discomfort, but it has stabilized after April of this year.
Other than occasional bloating, I have not had any other discomfort.
I would like to ask two questions: 1.
Is it necessary to undergo another endoscopy to confirm that there is no inflammation? 2.
In the morning, I have a formed stool, but after a few minutes or one to two hours, I have another bowel movement that is either semi-formed or watery.
Does this indicate dyspepsia, or could there be another underlying issue? (This has been the case every day!) Thank you for your response.

Zhuang Xiansheng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/05/02

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: (1) If you are asymptomatic, there is no need for another gastroscopy.
It is important to maintain good daily habits and dietary practices, and to follow up if symptoms occur.
(2) Typically, feces in the rectum will be expelled first; this area tends to retain water longer, resulting in formed stools.
If you experience a subsequent passage of loose or watery stools, it indicates that the feces have not fully absorbed water.
If there are no significant changes in bowel habits (if this is the case every day!), it can be considered normal.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2013/05/02

More Info

When considering whether to undergo another endoscopy for stomach issues, it is essential to evaluate your current symptoms, previous findings, and the recommendations of your healthcare provider. Based on your history of Grade B gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) diagnosed during your last endoscopy, and your current symptoms of occasional bloating but no other significant discomfort, here are some insights regarding your questions.

1. Need for Another Endoscopy: The decision to repeat an endoscopy largely depends on your symptoms and the findings from your previous examination. If you have been stable since April, with only mild bloating and no other alarming symptoms (such as severe pain, difficulty swallowing, or significant weight loss), it may not be immediately necessary to repeat the procedure. However, if you have concerns about persistent symptoms or if your healthcare provider suspects that there may be underlying issues that need to be assessed, a follow-up endoscopy could be warranted. It is crucial to discuss your current condition with your gastroenterologist, who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the results of your previous endoscopy.

2. Bowel Movements: The pattern you describe—having a formed stool in the morning followed by looser stools later—can be indicative of several conditions. This could be related to dietary factors, changes in gut motility, or even stress. While it might be classified as a form of functional gastrointestinal disorder, such as functional diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it is essential to consider other factors. If this pattern is consistent and does not cause you significant distress, it may not be a cause for concern. However, if you notice changes in the frequency, consistency, or presence of blood in your stools, or if you experience additional symptoms such as abdominal pain or weight loss, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while your current stability may suggest that another endoscopy is not immediately necessary, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best course of action based on your symptoms and any new developments. Additionally, monitoring your bowel habits and discussing any changes with your doctor can help identify whether further investigation is needed.
In the realm of gastrointestinal health, it is also beneficial to adopt a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and manage stress, as these factors can significantly influence both stomach and bowel health. If you have specific dietary concerns or symptoms that persist, consider working with a registered dietitian or your healthcare provider to develop a tailored plan that addresses your needs.

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