Endoscopy

Discovering you need an endoscopy can feel intimidating ‒ but modern advancements in technology have made the procedure easier, quicker, and more comfortable than ever before. At Palmetto Digestive, we do everything we can to ensure your comfort and peace of mind throughout the process.

With locations in Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, Summerville, and the Moncks Corner area of Charleston, SC, our team performs upper and capsule endoscopies for patients of varying needs and conditions. In addition to endoscopies, we also perform colonoscopies and a wide range of gastrointestinal procedures.

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Endoscopy in Summerville & Moncks Corner, SC

More on Endoscopies

We believe overall health starts with a proactive approach to digestive health. Upper and capsule endoscopies are among the best methods to understand and optimize your digestive health.

We also understand that an endoscopy can seem like an uncomfortable or scary procedure. Our team is here to educate you, so you’re comfortable and confident every step of the way.

What is an upper endoscopy?

An upper endoscopy is a non-surgical procedure that examines a patient’s digestive tract. The procedure involves inserting a tube-like instrument with a light and camera (endoscope) through the mouth, esophagus, and parts of the small intestine.

What is a capsule endoscopy?

Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a video camera the size of a pill. The camera takes pictures as it makes its way down your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.

When should you have an upper endoscopy or a capsule endoscopy?

Doctors will recommend an upper endoscopy when a patient is experiencing chronic heartburn, ongoing acid reflux, stomach pain, gastritis, digestive tract bleeding, chronic diarrhea, or chronic constipation.

A capsule endoscopy may be necessary when a doctor needs to examine the small intestine for bleeding, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, or tumors.

What can an upper & capsule endoscopy detect?

Upper endoscopies can detect the causes of stomach pain, swallowing difficulty, nausea, chronic pain, chronic diarrhea, or digestive tract bleeding. They can also detect ulcers, polyps, tumors, or signs of anemia, inflammation, or cancer.

Capsule endoscopies detect bleeding, ulcers, polyps, and tumors in the small intestine. They can also detect Crohn’s disease, liver problems, and other intestinal abnormalities.

How do you prepare for an endoscopy?

A patient must avoid eating or drinking (including water) for six hours before an upper endoscopy or 12 hours before a capsule endoscopy. This is to ensure the stomach is empty during the procedure.

Learn How to Prepare for an Endoscopy