Upper Endoscopy

Overview

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An upper endoscopy, also known as an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, is a technique that examines your upper digestive tract visually. This is accomplished with the assistance of a tiny camera attached to the end of a long, flexible tubing. Endoscopy is used by a gastroenterologist (a specialist in digestive diseases) to identify and sometimes treat conditions that affect the upper part of the digestive tract.


Upper endoscopy plays a critical role in diagnosing and evaluating various gastrointestinal conditions. It is commonly used to investigate symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Additionally, upper endoscopy is essential for detecting conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, gastritis, and early signs of esophageal or stomach cancer.


What is an upper endoscopy?

top endoscopy is a method for inspecting the top part of the digestive tract. The operation is also known as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or EGD. An endoscope is used by a gastroenterologist (GI doctor). The scope is a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and a small video camera.


Esophagus: The tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach, Stomach: The organ that holds food and starts the digestion process, Duodenum: The upper part of your small intestine.


Symptoms that could mean a complication

✶ Fever


✶ Chest pain


✶ Shortness of breath


✶ Bloody, black or very dark colored stool


✶ Difficulty swallowing


✶ Vomiting, especially if your vomit is bloody or looks like coffee grounds

✶ Severe or persistent abdominal pain

What does an upper endoscopy treat?

Healthcare providers can also do treatments with an endoscope. Your doctor may also use upper endoscopy to:


✶ Manage upper digestive tract bleeding


✶ Stretch narrowed digestive tracts


✶ Remove polyps, tumors or swallowed objects

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