Have you recently been suffering from bad digestive problems? Many digestive problems can be caused by the foods that we eat or lifestyle changes. However, it is important that if this is something that is affecting your day to day life that you are seen by a medical professional. There are lots of different checks that you can have done if you are having serious digestive problems and here we are running you through the main ones that you may be advised to have by your doctor.
Barium Beefsteak Meal
If you are having digestive problems, one test that your doctor may refer you for is the Barium Beefsteak meal. For this test, you will be required to consume a meal that contains the chemical barium. Barium is a metallic liquid that will cover the inside of your organs, allowing them to be seen on an x-ray. Your radiologist can then watch to see how the stomach digests the meal and how it leaves the stomach. The length of time that this process takes to happen will provide a good indication of how well your stomach is working and it will help to flag up any problem with emptying that may not show up with other tests.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a procedure in which the full length of your large intestine can be viewed on a camera. Colonoscopies are a good way to identify problems such as inflamed tissue, abnormal growths, ulcers and bleeding. When you go for this test, a colonoscopy, which is a long, flexible and lighted tube will be inserted through the rectum and into your colon. In doing this, the doctor will be able to view your colon lining, remove any tissue needed for a further exam and hopefully treat any problems that are discovered. The London Gastroenterology Centre, which provides private colonoscopy in London, emphasise that “the vast majority of people who have a colonoscopy do not have colon cancer” as this is becoming a common worry amongst patients. It’s important that you speak to your doctor first and get them to reassure any worries you may have prior to the test.
Ultrasound
To view internal organs while they are functioning and to see how blood flows through different vessels, an ultrasound is used. This examination uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer which makes images of blood vessels, organs and tissues. If you undergo this test, a gel will be applied to the area of your body which is being inspected and a transducer will be placed on your skin. This will send soundwaves into your body which bounce off the organs and these images are then returned to the ultrasound machine so you can see the image on the monitor. A video or picture can be taken of this procedure for future reference and can flag up issues which may be causing you to have digestive problems.
These are just three tests you may need to have if you are experiencing prolonged, uncomfortable digestive problems – but there are of course more tests to suit different conditions. Be sure to book a consultation and get yourself checked out as soon as possible.
