The American Gastroenterological Association
Provides details on a variety of gastroenterological procedures and patient care.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Determine the cause of problems in your esophagus, stomach and upper intestines
If you have symptoms such as gastrointestinal bleeding, acid reflux or swallowing problems, your doctor may recommend an upper endoscopy. This procedure may also be referred to as esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD.
It's an outpatient, non-surgical procedure. It can be done for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
Upper endoscopy is a generally painless procedure. It takes from five to 30 minutes in most cases. You will be given sedation for the procedure and will not be aware of your time under sedation.
During the upper GI endoscopy, your doctor will place a small tube with a camera through your mouth and throat. The doctor will send the tube through the esophagus to your stomach and duodenum.
The duodenum is the first segment of the small intestine. While performing the EGD procedure, your doctor will look for inflammation, ulcers and tumors. He or she will obtain biopsies of tissue if necessary.
What to Expect with Upper Endoscopy
Upper endoscopy is a generally painless procedure. It takes from five to 30 minutes in most cases. You will be given sedation for the procedure and will not be aware of your time under sedation.
During the upper GI endoscopy, your doctor will place a small tube with a camera through your mouth and throat. The doctor will send the tube through the esophagus to your stomach and duodenum.
The duodenum is the first segment of the small intestine. While performing the EGD procedure, your doctor will look for inflammation, ulcers and tumors. He or she will obtain biopsies of tissue if necessary.
If you are having an EGD procedure, your doctor will give you specific instructions to prepare. This may include not eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before your upper endoscopy.
Because of the anesthesia, you should not drive after the procedure. You should also avoid drinking alcohol and making critical decisions during the day of the procedure.
Preparing for Upper Endoscopy
If you are having an EGD procedure, your doctor will give you specific instructions to prepare. This may include not eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before your upper endoscopy.
Because of the anesthesia, you should not drive after the procedure. You should also avoid drinking alcohol and making critical decisions during the day of the procedure.
Most people may resume regular eating after an upper endoscopy. You will be given specific instructions from your doctor if needed. After your upper endoscopy, you may have a sore or irritated throat for a few days.
After Your Procedure
Most people may resume regular eating after an upper endoscopy. You will be given specific instructions from your doctor if needed. After your upper endoscopy, you may have a sore or irritated throat for a few days.
If you will be having an upper endoscopy, consider asking your doctor the following before your procedure:
- Is there any special preparation for the EGD procedure?
- What will it feel like during the EGD procedure? Afterward?
- Should I bring someone with me for transportation?
- Are there limitations to activities after the EGD procedure?
Questions to Ask Your Provider About Upper Endoscopy
If you will be having an upper endoscopy, consider asking your doctor the following before your procedure:
- Is there any special preparation for the EGD procedure?
- What will it feel like during the EGD procedure? Afterward?
- Should I bring someone with me for transportation?
- Are there limitations to activities after the EGD procedure?
Mar 19
During Colorectal Awareness Month this woman speaks out about hidden symptoms.
Patient Stories for Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Mar 19
During Colorectal Awareness Month this woman speaks out about hidden symptoms.
Resources
The American Gastroenterological Association
Provides details on a variety of gastroenterological procedures and patient care.