Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Evaluating the Upper Digestive Tract
Are persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or upper abdominal discomfort affecting your daily life? An upper endoscopy allows Dr. Tieng to examine the upper digestive tract and identify conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, and beginning of the small intestine.
An upper endoscopy, also called an EGD, uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the lining of the upper digestive tract. The procedure can help identify inflammation, ulcers, narrowing, bleeding, and other abnormalities.
Small tissue samples, called biopsies, may be collected during the procedure when needed.
An upper endoscopy may be recommended to evaluate:
- Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
- Difficulty or pain with swallowing
- Food feeling stuck after swallowing
- Persistent upper abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Gastrointestinal bleeding or black stools
- Unexplained anemia
- Unexplained weight loss
Patients with persistent acid reflux can learn more about Acid Reflux and GERD. If narrowing of the esophagus is causing difficulty swallowing, Dr. Tieng may also recommend Esophageal Dilation.
Before the procedure, you will receive instructions explaining when to stop eating and drinking and whether any medications need to be adjusted. During the endoscopy, a flexible camera is carefully passed through the mouth while you are comfortably sedated.
The procedure is generally performed at an outpatient surgery center, and most patients return home the same day.
Yes. Because sedation can affect alertness, memory, and coordination, you will generally need a responsible adult to drive you home. You should not drive, return to work, or make important decisions for the remainder of the day.
Dr. Tieng will usually discuss the initial findings with you or your designated family member after the procedure. If biopsies are collected, laboratory results may take several days, and the office will explain how you will receive the final results.
Temporary throat irritation, bloating, or mild nausea may occur and usually improves quickly. You will receive written recovery instructions explaining when you may resume eating, drinking, and normal activities, as well as symptoms that require medical attention.
Could an upper endoscopy help?
Call to discuss persistent reflux, food sticking, difficulty swallowing, or upper abdominal pain.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your individual health concerns.