What Is An Upper Endoscopy?
If you or someone you care about experience unusual symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort, or have unusual results from imaging tests, an upper endoscopy may help find a solution. This procedure, also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD, is a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying the causes of gastrointestinal (GI) issues and determining effective treatments for the upper GI tract. It involves the use of a long, flexible tube with a camera called an endoscope to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. An upper endoscopy is often recommended for diagnosing various GI symptoms, including abdominal pain, heartburn/reflux, swallowing difficulties, bleeding, or unusual x-ray results. For more information on how Dr. Vera Denmark, a board-certified gastroenterologist, can assist in diagnosing and treating your GI symptoms, reach out to Denmark Digestive Health in Weston, MA to arrange a consultation. Dr. Denmark expertly utilizes the upper endoscope to identify your medical issues and create an effective treatment plan to enhance your GI health.
How Does An Upper Endoscopy Work?
Our team will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for your upper endoscopy and what is permitted and not permitted before and after the procedure. You may be asked to not eat or drink anything after midnight except for any approved medications. You may be instructed to discontinue blood-thinning medications a few days before the procedure. For the procedure, medication will be administered to numb the mouth and throat. A mild sedative may also be given through an IV. Once numb, the endoscope will be gently inserted into the mouth and advanced through the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Based on the findings of the procedure, several things could be done, like controlling bleeding and removing polyps for biopsies. You can expect this procedure to take between 10 – 20 minutes. After the exam is complete, you will be taken to the recovery room where you will be monitored while the sedation wears off.
What Are the Benefits of An Upper Endoscopy?
Having an upper endoscopy can offer several advantages for patients in Weston, MA. This procedure enables Dr. Denmark to directly view the esophagus, stomach, and the initial section of the small intestine known as the duodenum. Additional benefits of undergoing an EGD include:
- Facilitates the diagnosis of various GI issues, including but not limited to gastrointestinal infections, Crohn's disease, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), and celiac disease
- Provides the opportunity for the removal of polyps, conducting tissue biopsies, and performing other minor procedures
- Helps identify the reasons behind specific symptoms, such as abdominal pain or discomfort, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting
- Considered to be a quick, efficient, and safe method
Denmark Digestive Health Reviews
Dr. Vera Denmark is a very patient Physician! She helped me come off the medication and change my diet to prevent me from having acid reflux disease! She is very thorough and thoughtful and always examined me very carefully!
Dr Denmark is welcoming and calming. She is a great listener and does an outstanding job of aligning with the patient to assess patient and symptoms. Dr Denmark explained her analysis of my situation in clear, easy to understand language, and wrote out a plan of action that included all of my concerns. She was able to diagnose a condition that I have had for years, that kept getting worse. No previous Dr was able to help me. I am now on the mend and so happy that I was lucky enough to find her.
Dr. Denmark is the most compassionate/intuitive/brilliant medical professional I've ever had the privilege of getting an appointment for consultation. Walking in with fears and leaving with sound, practical advice has made me understand that with aging, you have to change your diet. The terrible stabbing pain ceased. She listened and with questions and answers, got right to the problem.She spent a lot of time with me. Thank you so much.
Experienced and knowledgeable about GI issues. Dr. Denmark was quick and efficient with my exam and diagnosis. The surgical center was totally overbooked the day I went for my exam, but these things happen.
4
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Am I A Candidate for Upper Endoscopy?
You might be a candidate for an upper endoscopy if you're experiencing symptoms like persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained stomach pain, or nausea and vomiting. This procedure is often recommended when other diagnostic methods, such as x-rays or blood tests, do not provide enough information about your symptoms. An upper endoscopy can help diagnose conditions such as ulcers, acid reflux, or inflammation in the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine, so it may be suggested if you have a history of gastrointestinal issues or unexplained digestive discomfort.
Upper Endoscopy FAQ
Can I eat and drink normally after an upper endoscopy?
After an upper endoscopy, you will need to wait until the effects of the sedative have worn off and the numbing medication in your throat has dissipated before eating or drinking. Your doctor will provide specific instructions, but generally, you can resume your normal diet later in the day. It's advisable to start with light, easy-to-digest foods and avoid alcohol or irritants until you are fully recovered.
What should I do if I experience discomfort or unusual symptoms after an upper endoscopy?
Mild discomfort such as a sore throat, bloating, or mild cramping is common after an upper endoscopy and should resolve within a day or two. However, if you experience severe pain, persistent vomiting, fever, or signs of infection such as redness or swelling at the IV site, you should contact your doctor immediately. These symptoms could indicate complications that require prompt medical attention.
How accurate is an upper endoscopy in diagnosing digestive issues?
An upper endoscopy is highly accurate in diagnosing a wide range of upper gastrointestinal conditions. It allows direct visualization of the mucosal lining and enables the physician to take targeted biopsies. This method is more precise than other imaging tests like x-rays or CT scans for diagnosing certain conditions such as Barrett's esophagus, esophageal varices, and gastritis. The biopsy samples can provide definitive histological diagnoses.
Understanding GI Issues
Don't let uncertainty about your symptoms cause you discomfort. With Dr. Vera Denmark's expertise and experience, you can uncover the root cause of your health concerns and find relief. Denmark Digestive Health can help you understand and address your GI issues with the help of upper endoscopy. To find out how we can help you achieve better gastrointestinal health and overall well-being, reach out to our Weston, MA practice today for a consultation.