What Is a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy (Greek kolon = large intestine; skopein= to watch) is a diagnostic procedure during which a doctor – usually gastroenterologist – inspects the inner lining (mucosa) of your colon and rectum by a flexible viewing tube – colonoscope - that has a camera and light on the end (Picture 1). Colonoscopy may be done in a hospital or in an outpatient office.

Picture 1. Colonoscopy

Hemorrhoids, diverticula, bleeding, polyps, tumors (colorectal carcinoma, lymphoma), inflamed mucosa, ulcers or fibrous tissue can be detected in the colonic or rectal mucosa. Few inches of the last part of the small intestine ,commonly affected by Crohn’s disease, can be also checked.

continue reading Colonoscopy – Preparation, Procedure, Pictures, Risks, Cost

Diagnosis of Stomach (Abdominal) Disorders

If you have stomach problems, you can check a medical history questionnaire to prepare yourself for appointment with yourdoctor. After listening your symptoms and performing physical examination, your doctor may suggest you to have additional investigations. It may save you a lot of nerves and money, if you know exactly, what a certain investigation or test can show and what not. You can also check main causes of abdominal symptoms.

General Tests

• Blood, Stool, Urine and Neurological tests

Food Allergy and Intolerance Tests

• Skin tests, Breath tests, Elimination diet and Food Challenge tests
• Low-FODMAP Diet trial in IBS
• Low-Fructose diet trial in Fructose Malabsorption 

continue reading Stomach Disorders – Available Tests and Investigations

Causes of Diarrhea in Pregnancy

Causes of diarrhea in pregnant women are pretty much the same as in other populations and so is the treatment (1). Some women experience diarrhea, nausea or vomiting just before the labor starts (2).

FOODS TO AVOID in Pregnancy

Pregnant women should avoid risk of food poisoning:

• Salads in restaurants
• Fast food
• Soft cheeses
• Refrigerated smoked seafood

continue reading Diarrhea in Pregnancy – Safe and Non-Safe Diagnostic & Treatment