UPPER ENDOSCOPY
An upper endoscopy is an examination of the esophagus (swallowing tube), stomach and duodenum (first section of the small intestine) to look at the lining for inflammation (redness, irritation), bleeding, ulcers or tumors. The procedure takes about one hour.
Reasons for an upper endoscopy:
Preparation: Do not eat or drink anything 6-8 hours before the test. Ask your doctor about medications. Arrange for a responsible person to escort you safely home after the examination. Due to residue of sedation medications, do not operate heavy machinery, make major decisions or drink alcohol for 24 hours.
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Upper abdominal pain, heartburn or acid reflux symptoms (acid or burning sensation in throat or chest)
- Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding (vomiting blood or blood found in the stool)
- Difficulty swallowing; food/liquids getting stuck in the esophagus
- Abnormal or unclear findings on an upper GI x-ray
- Removal of a foreign body
- Follow-up previously found polyps (growths), tumors or ulcers
Procedure: Medications will be administered through the intravenous line. A plastic mouth guard will be placed between your teeth to prevent damage to your teeth and to the scope. You will be asked to swallow the tube, though you may not remember doing this once the medications have taken effect. Most people sleep during the examination.
The endoscope has a lens and light source that allows the endoscopist to look at magnified images on a computer monitor. The endoscopist will introduce air through the scope to open up the esophagus, stomach and intestine so the scope can pass through.
Recovery: You may experience a bloating feeling from the air, and you may have a mild sore throat. Let the doctor know if you are uncomfortable. Rest during the day and eat a regular diet unless your doctor prescribes otherwise.
Report these symptoms immediately to your doctor:
If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact Catalina Gastroenterology, Carol A Lee-Collins, MD, for consultation. Return to Patient Education Page.
- Severe abdomimal pain (not just gas cramps)
- A firm, distended abdomen
- Vomiting or fever
- Difficulty swallowing or a severe sore throat
- A crunchy feeling under the skin