In short, an upper endoscopy is a versatile medical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems in the upper digestive system.
- Diagnostic clarity. Doctors use this procedure to find the root cause of swallowing difficulties and stomach pain.
- Therapeutic intervention. It allows specialists to treat conditions like bleeding ulcers or a narrowed esophagus during the exam.
- Preventative care. Routine screenings can detect early signs of esophageal cancer or precancerous conditions like Barrett’s esophagus.
An endoscopy is a nonsurgical procedure used to examine a person’s digestive tract. Using a flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it, your doctor can view images of your digestive tract on a color TV monitor.
This allows them to investigate symptoms, diagnose specific conditions, and even treat issues affecting the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine.
What Is An Upper Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is also known medically as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD).
During this procedure, a gastroenterologist uses a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope. They gently guide this instrument through the mouth and down the throat. This allows them to see the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The duodenum is the first portion of the small intestine.
The camera sends video images to a monitor. This provides a clear, detailed view, that is often better than an X-ray, for your doctor to assess and study.
Why Is An Upper Endoscopy Performed?
Your doctor may recommend this procedure if you have persistent symptoms. It helps them investigate the cause of digestive distress. Common reasons for the exam include severe heartburn, bleeding, nausea, or vomiting.
Pain in the abdomen and difficulty swallowing are also primary reasons for an endoscopy.
Investigating Symptoms
An upper endoscopy helps evaluate signs and symptoms that are not explained by a physical exam. If you have unexplained weight loss or anemia, this test can reveal the cause. It is the gold standard for visualizing the upper GI tract.
Diagnosing Conditions
This procedure aids in the diagnosis of many diseases and conditions. Doctors can collect tissue samples (biopsy) for laboratory testing purposes during an upper endoscopy. This helps check on issues like anemia, inflammation, or diarrhea. It is also used to detect cancers of the digestive system.
Treating Health Problems
Doctors can pass special tools through the endoscope to treat certain problems. For example, they can stretch a narrow esophagus or remove polyps. They can also burn a bleeding vessel to stop bleeding.
This capability makes an endoscopy a therapeutic tool, as well as a diagnostic one.
What Conditions Can An Endoscopy Detect?
This procedure is highly effective at identifying a range of digestive health issues. It is commonly used to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.
It can also identify ulcers, which are sores on the lining of the stomach or intestine.
Celiac Disease And Inflammation
Doctors use this test to check for Celiac disease. This is an immune reaction to eating gluten. A biopsy taken during the exam can confirm damage to the small intestine.
It also detects inflammation or swelling in the digestive tract, which can help with diagnosing the underlying problem.
Precancerous Conditions
An upper endoscopy is vital for monitoring Barrett’s esophagus. This is a condition where the tissue lining the esophagus changes. It is often a complication for patients with long-term GERD.
Regular screening helps detect changes that could lead to esophageal cancer.
How Should You Prepare for the Procedure?
Preparation is vital for a successful and safe upper endoscopy. Your stomach must be completely empty before the exam. This allows the doctor to have a clear view of the stomach lining.
You will likely need to fast for four to eight hours before the procedure.
Medication Adjustments
You should tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you currently take. They may ask you to stop taking blood-thinning medications temporarily. This reduces the risk of bleeding if a biopsy is performed.
Medications for diabetes or high blood pressure might also need adjustment.
What Can You Expect During the Procedure?
An upper endoscopy is generally quick and comfortable for the patient. Most procedures are performed with sedation to keep you relaxed. You likely will not remember much of the exam.
The medical team will monitor your vital signs throughout the process.
The Examination Steps
The doctor will spray your throat with a local anesthetic to numb it. They will insert the endoscope into your mouth. You may feel a sensation of pressure, but it should not be painful.
The procedure typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes to complete.
What Is The Recovery Process Like?
After the upper endoscopy is completed, you will need time to recover from the sedation. You will stay in a recovery area for an hour or two while the medication wears off.
You must arrange for someone to drive you home. You should not drive or work for the rest of the day due to the effects of the sedation.
Common Side Effects
You might feel some bloating or gas after the procedure. This is because the doctor pumps air into the stomach to see it clearly.
A mild sore throat is also common for a day or two. These symptoms usually resolve on their own quickly.
Scheduling Your Upper Endoscopy in Austin, TX
If you are experiencing digestive symptoms, do not ignore them. An upper endoscopy is a safe and effective way to protect your health and resolve unwanted symptoms. Early detection is often the key to successful treatment.
At Austin Gastroenterology, we offer convenient and flexible scheduling options for upper endoscopies. Our highly trained and experienced doctors will work with you to find a time that fits into your schedule.
To schedule your upper endoscopy, simply give us a call or request an appointment online.
