Description

Endoscopy & Colonoscopy.

At Zia Medical Center in Dubai, endoscopy and colonoscopy are two of the most important tools we use to investigate and treat digestive problems. Both are minimally invasive tests that use a flexible tube with a camera, but they examine different parts of the digestive system and are recommended for different symptoms.

Endoscopy (gastroscopy) looks at the esophagus, stomach and upper small intestine and is often used for symptoms such as acidity, reflux, upper abdominal pain or suspected ulcers.
Colonoscopy examines the colon and rectum and is usually recommended for colorectal cancer screening, rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits or long-standing constipation/diarrhea.

Our experienced gastroenterologists at Zia Medical Center in Dubai use advanced endoscopy systems, gentle sedation protocols and strict safety standards to make the experience as comfortable and accurate as possible. In many cases, diagnosis, biopsy and treatment can be done in the same session.

What is Endoscopy? (Gastroscopy)

Endoscopy at Zia Medical Center in Dubai refers mainly to upper GI endoscopy, also known as gastroscopy. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the tip is passed gently through the mouth to examine:

Esophagus
Stomach
First part of the small intestine (duodenum)

When do our doctors recommend an Endoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist at Zia Medical Center may suggest an upper endoscopy if you have:

Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
Upper abdominal or epigastric pain
Difficulty or pain while swallowing (dysphagia / odynophagia)
Unexplained nausea or vomiting
Suspected gastric or duodenal ulcers
Long-standing bloating or indigestion
Unexplained weight loss or anemia

Endoscopy allows the doctor to:

See the lining of the upper digestive tract in real time
Take biopsies (small tissue samples) if needed
Test for H. pylori infection
Treat bleeding areas or narrowings in selected cases

Most endoscopy procedures at Zia Medical Center, Dubai take about 10–20 minutes, are performed under light conscious sedation, and patients usually go home the same day.

What is Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a specialized endoscopic procedure used to examine the:

Rectum
Entire colon (large intestine)
In some cases, the terminal ileum (last portion of the small intestine)

A flexible colonoscope with a high-definition camera is inserted gently through the rectum so our specialist can view the inner lining of the bowel, remove polyps and take biopsies where necessary.

Why is Colonoscopy important?

At Zia Medical Center, colonoscopy is routinely performed to:

Screen for colorectal cancer, especially from age 45 onwards
Investigate rectal bleeding (fresh blood or blood mixed in stool)
Evaluate chronic constipation or diarrhea
Assess unexplained abdominal pain or bloating
Investigate iron-deficiency anemia when the cause is unclear
Monitor Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s colitis

One of the biggest advantages of colonoscopy is that precancerous polyps can be removed immediately, significantly reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.

Procedures are usually done under moderate to deep sedation, take about 30–60 minutes, and are followed by a short recovery period in our day-care unit.

Endoscopy vs Colonoscopy: What’s the Difference?

Although they use similar technology, endoscopy and colonoscopy are designed for different regions and symptoms.

Endoscopy (Upper GI)

Examines: Esophagus, stomach, duodenum
Entry point: Through the mouth
Typical symptoms:
- Heartburn, reflux
- Upper abdominal pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Persistent nausea/vomiting

Colonoscopy (Lower GI)

Examines: Rectum and colon
Entry point: Through the anus
Typical symptoms:
- Rectal bleeding
- Change in bowel habits
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Unexplained weight loss or anemia

At Zia Medical Center, the choice between endoscopy and colonoscopy is based on where your symptoms are coming from and your age, risk factors and medical history. In some cases, both procedures may be advised for a complete digestive evaluation.

Why are Endoscopy & Colonoscopy so Important for Digestive Health?

For many conditions, blood tests and ultrasound are not enough. Endoscopy and colonoscopy allow our doctors to:

See the actual lining of your digestive tract in detail
Take targeted biopsies to confirm or rule out disease
Treat problems during the same session (e.g., remove polyps, control bleeding)

These procedures play a key role in:

Detecting gastritis, ulcers and Barrett’s esophagus
Diagnosing celiac disease, H. pylori infection
Identifying and removing colon polyps before they turn cancerous
Diagnosing and monitoring colorectal cancer, IBD and other serious conditions

Early detection often means simpler treatment, better outcomes and fewer complications.

Which Organs Do Endoscopy and Colonoscopy Examine?

Endoscopy (Gastroscopy)

Esophagus – checking for inflammation, reflux damage, Barrett’s esophagus, strictures
Stomach – assessing gastritis, ulcers, polyps or tumors
Duodenum – evaluating celiac disease, ulcers and other upper small bowel disorders

Colonoscopy

Rectum & colon – rectum, sigmoid, descending, transverse, ascending colon and cecum
Sometimes extends into the terminal ileum if small bowel involvement is suspected

Together, endoscopy and colonoscopy allow our gastroenterologists at Zia Medical Center to examine almost the entire digestive tract from mouth to large intestine.

Symptoms That May Need Endoscopy or Colonoscopy

You may need an Endoscopy if you have:

Heartburn or acid reflux lasting more than a few weeks
Burning or pain in the upper abdomen
Difficulty swallowing food or feeling food “sticking”
Unexplained nausea, vomiting or early fullness
History of ulcers or suspected H. pylori infection
Long-standing indigestion not responding to medication

You may need a Colonoscopy if you have:

Blood in the stool or bleeding from the rectum
Loose motions or diarrhea lasting more than 3–4 weeks
New or worsening constipation
Narrow, pencil-thin stools
Persistent bloating or lower abdominal cramps
Unexplained iron-deficiency anemia
Strong family history of colon or rectal cancer

If your symptoms are not clearly “upper” or “lower”, our gastroenterologist in Dubai will assess you in detail and recommend the most appropriate test—or both, if needed.

How Endoscopy is Performed

Pre-assessment
Your doctor reviews your symptoms, medical history and medications. You will be given clear instructions about fasting and which medicines to adjust.
Fasting
For endoscopy in Dubai, you’ll usually need to fast for 6–8 hours so the stomach is empty.
Sedation & throat preparation
A mild sedative is given through a vein to help you relax. A local anesthetic spray may be used to reduce the gag reflex.
Procedure
The endoscope is gently passed through the mouth and guided into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The doctor examines the lining on a high-resolution monitor. Biopsies may be taken if needed.
Recovery
After endoscopy, you’ll rest in our recovery area for 30–60 minutes. Most patients can go home the same day with a companion.
Results & follow-up
Your doctor will discuss the main findings on the same day. Biopsy results, if taken, are usually available within a few days, followed by a treatment plan.

How Colonoscopy is Performed

Consultation & planning
The gastroenterologist explains why a colonoscopy in Dubai is recommended, reviews your history and checks your fitness for sedation.
Bowel preparation
You’ll receive detailed instructions and a bowel preparation plan (usually a laxative solution) to completely cleanse the colon the day before the procedure. A clear liquid diet is typically advised.
Sedation
On the day of the colonoscopy, you’ll receive moderate or deep sedation so you stay comfortable and usually do not remember the procedure.
Procedure
The colonoscope is inserted through the rectum and gently advanced through the colon. The doctor examines each segment carefully, removes polyps when found and may take biopsies from any suspicious area.
Recovery
After the procedure, you’ll rest in the recovery area for about 60–90 minutes. Some bloating or gas is common and settles quickly.
Report & next steps
You’ll receive an explanation of the findings before discharge. If polyps or biopsies were taken, your doctor will advise when you should return and when the next colonoscopy is likely to be needed.

How Safe Are Endoscopy & Colonoscopy?

Endoscopy and colonoscopy are performed by experienced gastroenterologists using strict safety protocols.

Common, mild effects

Temporary bloating or gas
Mild throat soreness after endoscopy
Short-lived abdominal cramps after colonoscopy

These usually settle within hours.

Rare but serious risks

Bleeding, especially after polyp removal or biopsy
Perforation (tiny tear) in the wall of the digestive tract
Sedation-related complications in high-risk patients

Our team minimizes these risks by:

Careful pre-procedure assessment
Using modern equipment and proven techniques
Working according to international endoscopy safety guidelines
Monitoring you closely before, during and after the procedure

In almost all cases, the benefits of early diagnosis and prevention far outweigh the small risks.

Cost & Insurance for Endoscopy & Colonoscopy at Zia Medical Center, Dubai

The cost of endoscopy and colonoscopy in Dubai depends on:

Type of procedure (endoscopy, colonoscopy or both)
Whether biopsies or polyp removal are required
Sedation type
Insurance coverage and policy details

At Zia Medical Center:

We offer transparent, pre-approved packages for endoscopy and colonoscopy in Dubai
Our insurance team helps you check coverage and pre-authorization before the procedure
Self-pay patients can benefit from package pricing with clear inclusions

For the latest Endoscopy Dubai price and Colonoscopy Dubai price, you can refer to this page’s package section or contact our call center and WhatsApp support.

Can Endoscopy and Colonoscopy Be Done on the Same Day?

Yes. In selected patients, we can perform both endoscopy and colonoscopy on the same day under a single sedation session. This is especially useful when:

You have unclear or combined upper and lower GI symptoms
There is unexplained anemia or suspected hidden bleeding
You want a complete digestive check-up in one visit

Our doctor will decide if a same-day combined endoscopy and colonoscopy is suitable for you based on your health status, symptoms and insurance approval.

Who Should Have Routine Colonoscopy Screening?

Routine colonoscopy screening is recommended for:

All adults from age 45 (average risk, no symptoms)
Adults earlier than 45 if:
- You have a family history of colon or rectal cancer
- You’ve had polyps in the past
- You live with inflammatory bowel disease
- You have a hereditary cancer syndrome

Your Zia Medical Center gastroenterologist will personalize how often you need colonoscopy—every 3, 5 or 10 years—depending on your findings and risk profile.

How Our Gastroenterologists Decide Which Test You Need

The decision between endoscopy vs colonoscopy is based on a structured clinical assessment:

Upper symptoms → more likely to need endoscopy
Lower bowel symptoms or bleeding → more likely to need colonoscopy
Unclear anemia, weight loss or complex symptoms → sometimes both are advised

We also consider your:

Age and family history
Medication use (especially blood thinners)
Existing medical conditions

This ensures you get the right test, at the right time, without unnecessary procedures.

How to Prepare Physically and Mentally

Physical preparation

Follow fasting instructions exactly for endoscopy
Follow the bowel prep and clear liquid diet instructions carefully for colonoscopy
Inform your doctor about all medications, especially:
- Blood thinners
- Diabetes medications
- Heart or blood pressure medications

Mental preparation

Remember: these procedures are routine, safe and preventive
Understand that the goal is clarity and peace of mind
Bring a family member or friend for support and to accompany you home
Prepare your questions in advance (see below)

Questions You Can Ask

You are always encouraged to ask:

Why do I need endoscopy or colonoscopy?
What exactly will you be looking for?
Which sedation will you use?
Do I need to stop or adjust any medicines?
Will you take biopsies or remove polyps if you see them?
When and how will I get my results?
When should I repeat this test in the future?

Our team takes time to explain everything clearly so you feel informed and comfortable.

Lifestyle, Diet & Stress – Do They Matter?

Yes. Many people in Dubai experience digestive symptoms related to diet, lifestyle and stress, such as:

High intake of fried and spicy foods
Irregular meal timings
Low fibre intake
Sedentary lifestyle
High stress and anxiety

Sometimes endoscopy or colonoscopy is done to rule out serious disease, and results are normal. In such cases, your doctor at Zia Medical Center will guide you on:

Diet changes
Lifestyle modifications
Stress management strategies

So even when scopes are normal, they still help by excluding dangerous conditions and focusing treatment on what truly matters for your health.