Dealing with digestive problems? You may benefit from an upper endoscopy.
If you are dealing with GI problems or experiencing symptoms that affect the esophagus, stomach, or the duodenum (the upper part of the small intestines) then our trusted team of Saint Thomas, VI, surgeons may recommend performing an upper endoscopy.
An endoscopy is a minor in-office procedure that allows us to visually examine the upper gastrointestinal tract through a small scope with a camera at the end. The most common reasons for an upper endoscopy include,
- Unexplained upper abdominal pain or fullness
- Recurring bouts of nausea or vomiting
- Heartburn and signs of gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Signs of iron deficiency anemia
- A gastrointestinal bleed (blood may be found in the stool or the patient may be vomiting blood)
- Trouble or pain with swallowing
- Unexpected and sudden weight loss
If you are experiencing any of these issues then our Saint Thomas, Vi, surgical team may recommend a simple endoscopic procedure to determine what’s going on in your digestive tract that could be causing these symptoms. An endoscopy can easily detect,
- Ulcers
- Inflammation
- Polyps
- Celiac disease
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Narrowing of the esophagus or stomach
- Obstructions or objects that are stuck in the throat or stomach
- Bleeds
- Tumors
- Cancer
What should I expect from an upper endoscopy?
Your doctor will give you clear instructions on when to stop eating and what medications you can and cannot take within 24-48 hours of the procedure. It’s important that the patient hasn’t eaten or drunk anything within eight hours of the endoscopy. This procedure is performed under sedation, and the average length of endoscopy is between 15 to 20 minutes.
If a patient shows signs of Celiac disease or there are precancerous or cancerous growths present, then a biopsy may also be performed during the endoscopy. We also have the ability to remove polyps, remove objects that are obstructing the upper GI tract, stop bleeds, and open up blockages or obstructions during an endoscopy.
If you are dealing with persistent heartburn or upper abdominal pain, it’s important that you find out what’s going on. The surgical team at Paragon Surgical Center in Saint Thomas, VI, can give you the answers you’re looking for. Give us a call today at (217) 592-2863.