Diagnostic procedures like endoscopy provide answers that may explain your infant’s, child’s or teenager abdominal symptoms. At Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition of Dr. Erena Treskova, the board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist, Erena Treskova, MD, uses the least invasive procedures to get the answers you need so your child can get the most effective care. To schedule a consultation to learn more about endoscopy, contact one of the offices in Wayne, New Jersey, or Middletown, New York, by phone or through the online tool or register with the office for portal access today.
request an appointmentWhat is an endoscopy?
An endoscopy, also called an upper endoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure that allows the pediatric gastroenterologist at Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition of Dr. Erena Treskova to visually evaluate your child’s upper digestive system.
During the endoscopy, the doctor inserts a small flexible tube equipped with a light and camera into your child’s mouth and down into the digestive system. The camera transmits images to a computer screen for the doctor to view.
To ease discomfort and anxiety, your child may receive a sedative prior to the procedure.
Why would my child need an endoscopy?
There are many reasons why your child may benefit from an endoscopy. Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition of Dr. Erena Treskova may recommend an endoscopy for:
- Diagnosing functional issues in the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine
- Determining the underlying cause of your child’s unexpected weight loss
- Assessing the cause of frequent vomiting
- Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Removing objects (coins, toys) obstructing the esophagus
- Diagnosing eosinophilic esophagitis
- Reassessing the health of the gastrointestinal tract after an elimination diet
Your child may also benefit from an endoscopy if they’re having difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or to better understand the cause of their chest or abdominal pain.
How do I prepare my child for an endoscopy?
The practice provides specific instructions on the steps you need to take to prepare your child for an endoscopy. In general, they recommend your child stops eating and drinking about eight hours prior to the procedure. Your child should be able to continue to take their medications unless otherwise directed.
If your child has a heart valve problem, heart murmur, or a history of urogenital surgery, you may need your child’s cardiologist or urologist to provide clearance prior to the endoscopy.
How is a colonoscopy different from an endoscopy?
The upper endoscopy evaluates your child’s upper digestive system, while the colonoscopy, also called the lower endoscopy, evaluates your child’s lower digestive system, which includes the large intestine (colon) and rectum.
Your gastroenterologist may request your child undergo a lower endoscopy to diagnose the underlying cause of your child’s abdominal pain, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss.
To schedule a consultation to discuss whether your child would benefit from an endoscopy procedure, contact Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition of Dr. Erena Treskova by phone or use the online scheduler today.