In short,
- Endoscopy aids in digestive tract diagnosis and treatment.
- It’s important to discuss preparation, risks, and benefits with your doctor.
- Inquire about sedation and aftercare for a smooth experience with your provider.
An upper endoscopy, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), involves using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This allows direct visualization of the upper digestive tract, identification of abnormalities like inflammation, ulcers, or tumors, biopsy collection, and therapeutic interventions such as polyp removal or bleeding control.
This guide covers key questions to ask your doctor before the procedure to ensure you are informed and prepared.
What are the Reasons for Needing an Upper Endoscopy?
Upper endoscopy is valuable for diagnosing and treating digestive conditions by directly visualizing the upper digestive tract, providing information that other tests cannot.
Diagnostic Purposes
Endoscopy is often recommended for persistent digestive symptoms like heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. It can help diagnose esophagitis, gastritis, ulcers, hiatal hernias, and early signs of cancer.
Therapeutic Purposes
Beyond diagnosis, endoscopy can treat conditions directly. Polyps can be removed (polypectomy), esophageal strictures can be dilated, and bleeding from ulcers or tumors can be stopped.
It can also be used to place feeding tubes or insert stents.
Preparing for Your Upper Endoscopy
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful upper endoscopy. Following your doctor’s instructions ensures safety, effectiveness, and accurate results. Inadequate preparation can lead to cancellation or inaccurate findings.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Your doctor will provide specific instructions, typically including fasting for at least 8 hours, medication adjustments (especially blood thinners), and transportation arrangements if you receive sedation.
Questions to Ask About Preparation
- Will I have any dietary restrictions?
- What (if anything) do I need to do about medication management (especially blood thinners or diabetes medications)?
- What’s the best outfit to wear to this procedure?
- Can I take regular medications with water?
- What time do I need to arrive?
- Do I need someone to drive me to and from the procedure?
What to Expect During the Upper Endoscopy Procedure
Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety. The procedure is generally well-tolerated, and your comfort and safety are prioritized.
Are There Sedation Options?
Sedation is commonly used, including conscious sedation (relaxed but responsive) and deep sedation/general anesthesia (unconscious). The choice depends on your preferences, medical history, and procedure complexity.
Be sure to discuss risks and benefits with your doctor before the procedure.
What Should I Expect From the Procedure Itself?
The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes. You will lie on your side while your vital signs are monitored. A mouth guard will be placed, and the lubricated endoscope will be inserted through your mouth into your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Air may be introduced for better visualization. The doctor will examine the lining and take biopsies or remove polyps if needed.
Questions to Ask About the Procedure
- What type of sedation is best for me?
- How long will the procedure take?
- Should I be worried about any potential discomfort?
- What happens if abnormalities are found?
- Who will be monitoring me?
- If sedation is used, how long will it take to come out of that?
Understanding Potential Risks and Complications
While generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks, even though rare. Being informed allows for confident decision-making.
Are There Any Common Risks?
Common risks are usually mild and resolve quickly, including sore throat, bloating, and nausea. These typically subside within hours to a day.
Rare but Serious Complications
Rare but serious complications include bleeding, perforation (tear in the digestive tract lining), and infection. These may require hospitalization.
Be sure to talk with your doctor about serious complications so you fully understand any and all risks before you have the procedure.
Questions to Ask About Risks
Here are some questions to consider asking your doctor about potential risks and complications?
- What are the potential risks in my situation?
- What is the likelihood of complications?
- What measures can you take to minimize the possibility of complications?
- What are the signs and symptoms to watch for if you suspect a complication?
- What should I be aware of when it comes to complications?
What to do For Post-Procedure Care and Follow-Up
Proper post-procedure care is essential for a smooth recovery and helps minimize the risk of future complications.
Immediate Post-Procedure Instructions
After the procedure, you will be monitored until the sedation wears off, usually for about an hour or two. You may experience grogginess or a sore throat. You’ll receive instructions on resuming eating and drinking, starting with clear liquids.
Arrange for someone to drive you home.
What About Any Follow-Up?
Your doctor will schedule a follow-up to discuss the results and any necessary treatment. Biopsy results are typically available within a week or two.
Questions to Ask About Aftercare
- When can I resume my normal diet?
- What (if any) symptoms should I watch out for?
- When should I expect biopsy results?
- When can I get back to regular activities?
Questions to Ask About Upper Endoscopy Costs and Insurance Coverage
Understanding costs and insurance coverage is important to avoid unexpected bills. Contact your insurance provider and the medical facility.
Understanding Costs
Inquire about the total cost, including all fees (facility, doctor, anesthesia, pathology). Ask about payment options.
Insurance Coverage
Contact your insurance company to determine your coverage, deductible, co-pay, and if pre-authorization is required.
Questions to Ask About Payment
Ask about the estimated cost, how to verify insurance coverage, and if financial assistance is available.
Endoscopy in Austin, TX
At Austin Gastroenterology, our team of experts is ready to provide compassionate care for your endoscopy and related health needs. We understand the challenges that our patients face and are committed to providing care throughout every step of your journey.
To get in touch and to schedule an appointment, please call the closest office to you today. We look forward to hearing from you.
