WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What do I need to know about an upper endoscopy? An upper endoscopy is also called an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, or an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). A scope (thin, flexible tube with a light and camera) is used to examine the walls of your upper intestines. The upper intestines include the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine). An EGD is used to look for problems, such as bleeding, polyps, ulcers, or infection. How do I prepare for an upper endoscopy? Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for your procedure. You may need to not eat or drink anything except water for 4 to 8 hours before the procedure. He will tell you what medicines to take or not take on the day of your procedure. What will happen during an upper endoscopy? - You will be given medicine through your IV to help you relax and make you drowsy. You will also be given medicine to numb your throat. You may need to wear a plastic mouthpiece to help hold your mouth open and protect your teeth and tongue. Your healthcare provider will gently insert the endoscope through your mouth and down into your throat. You may be asked to swallow once to help move the scope into your upper intestines. You may feel pressure in your throat but you should not feel pain. The endoscope does not restrict your breathing.
- Your healthcare provider will watch the scope on a monitor. He will take pictures with the scope. He may gently inject air so he can see your digestive tract clearly. Your healthcare provider may take tissue samples and send them to the lab for tests. He may remove foreign objects, tumors, or polyps that may be blocking your upper intestines. Your healthcare provider may also insert tools with the scope to treat bleeding or place a stent (tube). When the procedure is finished, the endoscope will be slowly removed.
What will happen after an upper endoscopy? You may feel bloated, gassy, or have some abdominal discomfort. Your throat may be sore for 24 to 36 hours after the procedure. You may burp or pass gas from air that is still inside your body after your procedure. You may need to take short walks to help move the gas out. Eat small meals, if you feel bloated. Do not drive or make important decisions until the day after your procedure. What are the risks of an upper endoscopy? Your esophagus, stomach, or duodenum may be punctured or torn during the procedure. This is because of increased pressure as the scope and air are passing through. You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. You may have a slow or irregular heartbeat, or low blood pressure. This can cause sweating and fainting. Fluid may enter your lungs and you may have trouble breathing. These problems can be life-threatening. |