An Upper GI endoscopy, or an EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy), is a diagnostic procedure enabling healthcare providers to peek inside your upper digestive system. Understanding the ins and outs of this procedure can significantly demystify the journey toward optimal digestive health. As trusted providers, the Digestive Health Clinic is your resource for understanding what to expect during your upcoming upper GI endoscopy.
What is a GI Endoscopy?
When experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort or symptoms, a GI endoscopy is an important diagnostic tool to guide therapeutic interventions. An upper GI endoscopy involves a thin, flexible tube—equipped with a camera—inserted through the mouth to visually examine the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
This non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure allows doctors to pinpoint and sometimes treat problems in the upper GI tract, ensuring you are on the optimal path for managing your digestive health.
What Problems Can Upper GI Endoscopy Detect?
An upper GI endoscopy is not exclusively a diagnostic tool but a window into the complexities of your digestive system. This procedure can identify a variety of issues, including:
GERD: Chronic acid reflux that impacts the esophagus.
Strictures or Blockages: Narrowing of the esophagus passage, which may hinder food consumption.
Esophageal Varices: Abnormally large veins in the esophagus, often related to liver disease.
Inflammation and Ulcers: Areas of redness, swelling, and open sores in the stomach.
Tumors: Malignant or benign growths in the throat, stomach, or upper intestine.
Hiatal Hernia: The stomach protruding into the esophagus.
Caustic Ingestion Damage: Caused by the ingestion of strong acids and alkalis.
Celiac Disease: Inflammation caused by gluten ingestion.
Crohn's Disease: Chronic inflammation in the upper GI tract.
Infections: Harmful viruses that can impact the health of your upper digestive system.
This exploration ensures that our medical team can devise a treatment strategy to manage or remedy these concerns, ensuring optimal digestive health.
How Do You Prepare for an Upper GI Endoscopy?
The efficacy of an EGD significantly depends on appropriate patient preparation:
Week - Days Before the Procedure: Begin by discussing with your healthcare team about any medications you’re taking. You may be advised to alter dosages or pause certain drugs temporarily. Ensure to arrange transportation post-procedure due to sedation.
Day Of - Immediately Before: Abstain from eating for at least 6-8 hours before the endoscopy to ensure a clear view during the examination. You can drink clear liquids up to two hours before the procedure. Follow any specific instructions provided by your doctor.
After the Procedure: Take it easy for the rest of the day due to the lingering effects of sedation. Your doctor will discuss the initial findings with you and may provide a follow-up appointment for a detailed discussion.
Procedure Preparation
Excellence in Digestive Health Care in Boise & Nampa
At the Digestive Health Clinic, we pride ourselves on our excellence in digestive care. Our GI doctors are dedicated to listening to your concerns, understanding your needs, and developing a treatment plan that works best for you when necessary.
By consistently staying at the forefront of new procedures and committing to the highest quality services, we ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. Schedule an appointment with us today at (208) 489-1838 and take the first step towards comprehensive and compassionate care.
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