Personalized Solutions for Digestive Problems
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening and a helpful diagnostic tool for many other intestinal disorders and diseases.
Patient Forms
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Our Providers
Comfortable, Professional, and Compassionate.
Digestive problems can make life miserable when left untreated. Northern Virginia Gastroenterology is a nationally recognized gastroenterology offering personalized solutions for digestive disease and related symptoms using innovative diagnostic tools to help identify and treat the root cause. Visit our practice in Sterling.
Northern Virginia Gastroenterology is a proud member of Privia Medical Group. The best doctors in our community have joined together to form Privia Medical Group (PMG), a multi-specialty, high-performance medical group that puts patients first. Our physicians are united by the mission of providing better, more coordinated care for their patients. To learn more about Privia Medical Group and find other Privia doctors, please visit our website.
Conditions
We treat
We specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating digestive diseases, including celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), reflux, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids, and more.
Procedures
We Perform
We offer common and specialized procedures to help diagnose and treat many digestive conditions and can provide many procedures at our convenient, in-house endoscopy centers.
- Colonoscopy
The colonoscopy is the gold standard test for colon cancer screening, and it’s also a helpful diagnostic tool for many other intestinal disorders and diseases. - Capsule Endoscopy
A capsule endoscopy is a cutting-edge procedure your doctor uses to examine all sections of your digestive tract using only a tiny pill-sized camera.
- Endoscopy
Our endoscopy center allows your health care provider to take a look at the inside parts of your body without the need for major surgery. - Sigmoidoscopy
A sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic test used to check the sigmoid colon, which is the lower part of your colon or large intestine.
Dr. Chand has a great bedside manner. She listens to what is going on with your health. She works with the patient to solve what is ailing you.
Office staff is very friendly, Dr. took the time to review my medical history and did not immediately rush to get me scheduled for a procedure. I appreciate the level of attention and care.
I had problems with anesthesia for other procedures and Dr. 's team took special care to ensure I did not have those issues. I came out of recovery feeling fine and there were no complications. The staff was extremely nice and took the time to listen to my concerns and answer my questions.
Friendly office staff, on-time appointments. Dr. is extremely thoughtful, thorough, knowledgeable, and patient-centered! Genuinely listened, cared for, and mobilized and implemented a plan swiftly. He’s a breath of fresh air given the current state of health care.
Meet
Our Providers
We are dedicated to delivering quality care for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of digestive diseases.
Frequent Questions
What’s the difference between a colonoscopy and a sigmoidoscopy?
A colonoscopy examines the entire colon, while a sigmoidoscopy looks only at the lower portion of the colon. Colonoscopy is typically recommended for full colon cancer screening because it allows doctors to detect and remove polyps throughout the colon. Sigmoidoscopy may be used for specific symptoms affecting the lower bowel.
At what age should I start colon cancer screening?
For most adults at average risk, screening begins at age 45. If you have a family history of colon cancer or certain digestive conditions, your doctor may recommend starting earlier. Screening schedules are personalized based on risk factors.
Is a colonoscopy painful?
Most colonoscopies are performed under sedation, so patients are comfortable and often don’t remember the procedure. Some mild bloating or cramping afterward is normal, but significant pain is uncommon.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
Preparation typically involves following a clear liquid diet the day before and taking a prescribed bowel prep solution to clean out the colon. While the prep is often considered the most challenging part, clear instructions and planning ahead make it manageable.
Is a screening colonoscopy covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover screening colonoscopies starting at the recommended age. However, costs may vary if the procedure becomes diagnostic, such as when a polyp is removed. It’s always wise to confirm details with your insurance provider.
When is an endoscopy necessary?
An endoscopy is often recommended for persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained anemia, chronic nausea, or upper abdominal pain. It allows the doctor to view the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine directly.
How often do I need a colonoscopy?
For average-risk individuals with normal results, colonoscopy is typically recommended every 10 years. If polyps are found or if you have higher-risk factors, your physician may recommend more frequent screening.
What happens during an endoscopy?
During an endoscopy, a thin flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to examine the upper digestive tract. Sedation is typically used for comfort, and the procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes.
Are GI procedures safe at outpatient centers?
Yes, most colonoscopies and endoscopies are safely performed in accredited outpatient centers. These facilities are equipped for monitoring and sedation, and patients typically return home the same day.
