Upper Endoscopy Explained: A Comprehensive Guide to the Procedure

When you’re dealing with stomach or abdominal pain, it can often be difficult for your gastroenterologist to diagnose the exact issue that you might be dealing with. It’s important that they’re able to see the issue and can test for certain problems. To see into your gastrointestinal tract, your doctor may recommend a procedure known as an upper endoscopy. This allows your doctor to have a look into your system and check for what may be causing your pain and inflammation. Dr. Pear Enam, Dr. Rashid Hanif, and Dr. Urooj Ahmed at Gastroenterology Associates in Hagerstown, MD, can explain an upper endoscopy and what the procedure might entail for you.

Understanding an Upper Endoscopy

To properly diagnose your gastrointestinal issues, your gastroenterologist in Hagerstown, MD, will utilize an upper endoscopy. This procedure allows your doctor to be able to look into your GI tract and find out what might be causing your pain or irritation. This procedure involves a long tube with a camera on the end that allows your doctor to get an up-close look at any issues you may be dealing with. 

Your gastroenterologist uses a thin and flexible tube known as an endoscope. The procedure entails you being put under anesthesia while the tube is inserted into your mouth and down your esophagus. This allows your doctor to have an accurate reading of your GI tract and what might be going on. They can also use this procedure to take a biopsy and test for issues like ulcers or cancerous tissues. 

Before your procedure, you’ll need to fast so that your stomach is empty, and your doctor has a clear view into your tract. You’ll be completely asleep during the procedure and put on your side while the test is performed. Once it’s over, you’ll wake up and you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. If your doctor detects any issues within your esophagus or stomach, they can walk you through the next steps of treatment. This could include medications or lifestyle changes to improve certain complications.  

This procedure is incredibly important when it comes to diagnosing specific issues within your GI tract and can be the next step to decreasing your stomach pain and living a high-quality life.

Contact Our Gastroenterologist Today

Make sure you understand what an upper endoscopy entails and why it’s so important for your life. Contact Dr. Pear Enam, Dr. Rashid Hanif, and Dr. Urooj Ahmed at Gastroenterology Associates in Hagerstown, MD, to learn more about upper endoscopy and if it might be necessary for you. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (301) 733-4404.