Our Services / Upper GI Endoscopy

What is an upper GI endoscopy?

An upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure Dr. Bahamonde uses to explore your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (upper small intestine).

During an upper GI endoscopy, Dr. Bahamonde inserts a flexible tube with an attached camera down your throat into your esophagus. The camera sends real-time images of your upper GI tract to an external monitor. Dr. Bahamonde watches the images on the monitor to identify problems affecting your upper GI tract.

Why would I need an upper GI endoscopy?

You might need an upper GI endoscopy to diagnose the underlying cause of unexplained symptoms like heartburn, nausea, pain, and swallowing problems.

An upper GI endoscopy is useful in diagnosing:

• Ulcers
• Blockages
• Inflammation
• Celiac disease
• Barrett’s esophagus
• Esophageal narrowing

During your upper GI endoscopy, Dr. Bahamonde can take a sample of suspicious tissue (biopsy) to determine if you have cancer. She can also treat ulcers and remove obstructions in the esophagus during your diagnostic procedure.

What can I expect during an upper GI endoscopy?

Your upper GI endoscopy is an in-office, outpatient procedure. Dr. Bahamonde gives you a sedative to keep you comfortable and relaxed. She can also numb your throat to reduce your gag reflex.

After inserting the tube into your mouth, she guides it into your esophagus, stomach, and upper intestine. To help see your GI structures better, Dr. Bahamonde might pump air in through the endoscope.

How long does it take to recover from an upper GI endoscopy?

An upper GI endoscopy generally takes 15-30 minutes. You will need to spend time recovering from the sedative, and someone will need to drive you home. Once you’re home, you should rest as much as possible and avoid physical activity until the next day.

It’s normal to feel nauseous or bloated in the hours after an upper GI endoscopy. A sore throat is also common for one to two days after your procedure. These symptoms should get better on their own. In most cases, you can get back to your regular diet as soon as you feel comfortable.

Dr. Bahamonde will discuss the results of your upper GI endoscopy. She’ll recommend additional testing or treatments you’ll need based on her diagnosis.

If you have chronic heartburn, stomach pain, or unexplained symptoms affecting your upper gastrointestinal tract, call Center For Digestive Healing today. You can also book a diagnostic evaluation online.