If you are dealing with upper digestive tract issues, the team at Gastroenterology Associates of Rochester in Rochester, NY, offers upper endoscopy procedures to provide a proper diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Understanding The Upper Endoscopy

When you have issues with your gut and digestive tract, a GI specialist utilizes specific tools and techniques to assess the problem. One of these is called an upper endoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Below, the team at Gastroenterology Associates of Rochester in Rochester, NY, provides a guide to help you understand this procedure and who can benefit from it. 

What Is an EGD? 

The EGD is a diagnostic procedure in which the gastroenterologist uses an endoscope to examine the upper digestive tract, including the stomach, esophagus, and small intestine. 

How Is an EGD Performed? 

Anesthesia puts you to sleep during the procedure. While the anesthesia wears off, and you quickly wake up after the procedure, you will need someone to drive you home. 

Once you are asleep, the GI doctor will insert the endoscope into your mouth and move down to the esophagus. The endoscope is a small, thin, flexible tube with a light and camera. 

The GI doctor will get a good look at your upper digestive tract on a monitor. If necessary, a biopsy can be performed while the endoscope is inserted. Obstructions and some other issues can also be removed during the procedure.

Once the EGD is completed, the GI specialist will share the results. They can provide a diagnosis and personalized treatment for anything they might find. 

Who Needs an EGD? 

When you visit your GI doctor for any symptoms, they’ll determine if an EGD is necessary. Often, they are used to assess the causes behind issues such as: 

• Persistent heartburn 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Blood in vomit 
• Having difficulty swallowing 
• Chest pain 
• Abdominal pain 
• Symptoms of ulcers 
• Symptoms of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease 
• Damage to the esophagus
• Unplanned or unexpected weight loss or weight gain 
• Potential signs of cancer 

In short, any symptoms that indicate trouble in the upper digestive tract will typically be assessed and diagnosed using an EGD. 

Get an Upper Endoscopy Today

If you are suffering from digestive distress, you must seek professional care for your health and quality of life. Call (585) 720-1550 to schedule an appointment with our Gastroenterology Associates of Rochester team in Rochester, NY.