Upper GI endoscopy-Patient
information
Endoscopy is
a test to look into the esophagus, stomach and first part of small intestine.
Endoscope is a thin, flexible tube passed through the mouth and its tip has a
camera so that the operator can see inside your gut.
Who undergoes endoscopy?
The doctor
may advise endoscopy if you have
·
Heartburn
·
Pain
abdomen
·
Vomiting
·
Difficulty
in swallowing
·
Blood
in vomit
What happens during endoscopy?
The doctor
usually sprays the back of your throat with local anesthetic spray to make it
numb. You are asked to lie on your side on a couch and put a plastic mouth
guard between your teeth. You are asked to swallow the first section of the
endoscope which is pushed down your food pipe. The video camera records
pictures and sends them to a screen. The doctor may take biopsies of the inside
lining of the gut depending on your condition. This is painless and samples are sent to the
laboratory.
What preparation do you require?
·
You
should not eat or drink anything for 4-6 hours before the test as the stomach
needs to be empty.
·
If
you have a sedative, you may need somebody to accompany you home.
What happens after endoscopy?
Most
endoscopies are done without problems and you may have a mild sore throat for a
few hours. The doctor may tell you his findings and also give a report. The lab
tests if done might take a few days. You can go home after the test if you have
not been given a sedative. However, you are required to report to your doctor
if you have the following symptoms:
·
Increasing
abdominal pain
·
Fever
·
Difficulty
breathing
·
Vomiting
blood
Disclaimer: This material is for information
only. For further details, talk to your doctor.