When Is Upper GI Endoscopy Recommended? Common Indications and Symptoms

An endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure to view your upper digestive system, including your esophagus, stomach, and upper intestine. Dr. Arun Khazanchi at Premiere GI in Lakewood Ranch, FL, provides a wide range of gastrointestinal services, including endoscopies.

What You Need To Know About an Endoscopy

Your gastroenterologist may recommend an endoscopy to diagnose digestive conditions including:

• Acid reflux
• GERD
• Anemia
• Ulcers
• Celiac disease
• GI cancer

Your gastroenterologist may also recommend an endoscopy to diagnose the cause of signs and symptoms like these:

• Chronic nausea and vomiting
• Continuous abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Gastrointestinal bleeding

There are some steps you need to take to prepare for an endoscopy. You will need to avoid drinking or eating anything for 4 to 8 hours before your endoscopy. You should also avoid taking blood thinning medications or NSAIDS, because they can increase your risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

You will be sedated during your endoscopy, so you should bring a driver with you to drive you home afterward. During your endoscopy, your gastroenterologist will insert a thin, flexible tube, known as an endoscope, into your mouth. The endoscope has a camera at one end, which enables your gastroenterologist to view your esophagus and upper digestive system.

The endoscope is guided down into your esophagus and upper digestive system. If abnormal tissue or growths are found, they can be removed for a biopsy to determine if cancerous tissue is present.

An endoscopy is important in the diagnosis and treatment of upper GI signs, symptoms, and conditions. Early diagnosis of upper GI conditions is critical to providing excellent treatment and a better outcome for you.

Want To Know More About Upper GI Endoscopy?

To find out more about when you need an endoscopy and how an endoscopy can help you, ask an expert. Call Dr. Arun Khazanchi at Premiere GI in Lakewood Ranch, FL. You can reach Dr. Khazanchi in the office by calling (941) 334-9040, so call today.