Q: What is Helicobacter pylori?

A: This is bacteria that causes inflammation or irritation of the stomach or the beginning of the small intestine resulting in ulcers or gastritis.

Q: What is the preparation for a colonoscopy?

A: There are two types of preps prescribed based on both obvious and underlying health problems. One is a four liter or one gallon of fluid, while the other is two cocktails of fluid.

Q: What medications can I take before the procedure?

A: Life sustaining, blood pressure, heart, breathing as well as seizure medications may be taken with a sip of water upon arising the morning of the procedure.

Q: When will I have my test results?

A: General results should be back within one week; however, timeframes may vary.

Q: What does precancerous mean?

A: It means that the tissue removed is not cancer, however, if not removed, it could develop into cancer at some time in the future.

Q: What's the difference between a colonoscopy and a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

A: Both procedures require the use of a thin, flexible endoscope. A colonoscopy examines the entire colon (large intestine). This is an outpatient procedure performed with the patient under sedation. If a polyp is found during a colonoscopy it can be removed.

A flexible sigmoidoscopy involves a shorter scope and examines about one-third of the colon. This is usually done in the office without sedation. During this procedure a polyp can be biopsied but not removed. If polyps are found during a sigmoidoscopy, a colonoscopy may be recommended.

Q: When should I have a colonoscopy?

A: In general, anyone 50 years of age or older should have a colonoscopy to screen for polyps and cancer. If you are under 50, you may also need a colonoscopy if any immediate relatives have had colon polyps or colon cancer or if you are having any symptoms such as a change in bowel habits, passing blood (even a small amount) or unexplained lower abdominal pain.

Q: Should I have an upper endoscopy if I have heartburn symptoms?

A: It depends on the length and severity of your symptoms. If you have had acid reflux for several years, or if it is poorly controlled with acid-suppressing medications, you should probably have an upper endoscopy to rule out a precancerous condition called Barrett's esophagus.

Q: What's the difference between diverticulosis and diverticulitis?

A: Diverticulosis refers to small pouches in the wall of the colon. It is thought that these are caused by outward pressure exerted in the colon (e.g. perpetual straining during bowel movements) which can cause bulges or herniations in weak areas of the colon wall. This is a very common condition. When these pouches become inflamed or infected, the condition is called diverticulitis. The signs of diverticulitis may include sudden abdominal pain, bleeding during bowel movements and fever. Diverticulitis usually requires treatment with antibiotics.