Upper Endoscopy Specialist
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Las Vegas Gastroenterology
Gastroenterologists located in Las Vegas, NV
You may need an upper endoscopy to find the underlying cause of gastrointestinal symptoms, such as ongoing abdominal pain or diarrhea. At Las Vegas Gastroenterology in Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada, Noel Fajardo, MD, and the team perform many endoscopic procedures, including upper endoscopy. For comprehensive care from a skilled team of gastroenterologists, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.
Upper Endoscopy Q & A
What is an upper endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy, also known as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a painless examination of your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes your esophagus, stomach, and the first portion of your small intestine — duodenum.
During the diagnostic procedure, your gastroenterologist inserts a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (an endoscope) in your mouth and advances it through the upper GI tract.
The endoscope transmits images of the tissue to a computer screen so your gastroenterologist can look for signs of abnormalities.
Why would I need an upper endoscopy?
The team at Las Vegas Gastroenterology explains why you need an upper endoscopy during your consultation. They may recommend an upper endoscopy to find the underlying cause of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, or dark stools.
An upper endoscopy may also confirm or rule the underlying cause of non-cardiac heartburn, unintentional weight loss, or loss of appetite.
They perform the test to diagnose conditions that affect the upper GI tract, such as:
- Esophageal reflux, also known as acid reflux
- Upper gastrointestinal bleeding
- Ulcerations of the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum
- Narrowing or strictures of the esophagus
- Fungal infections in the esophagus
- Barrett’s esophagus
- Esophageal varices
- Hiatal hernia
- Celiac disease
- Cancer of the upper GI tract
During an upper endoscopy, the team may take tissue samples to confirm or rule out a diagnosis.
How do I prepare for an upper endoscopy?
Las Vegas Gastroenterology provides detailed instructions on how to prepare for your upper endoscopy. In general, you need to stop eating and drinking up to eight hours before your scheduled test.
The team may also ask that you stop taking any medications or supplements that may increase your risk of bleeding several days before the test.
What happens during upper endoscopy?
The upper endoscopy is an outpatient procedure the team at Las Vegas Gastroenterology performs. During the endoscopy, your gastroenterologist has you lie on an exam table.
They administer a sedative or an anesthetic to help you relax and to prevent you from experiencing any discomfort during the procedure. Your gastroenterologist inserts the endoscope to evaluate your upper GI tract.
The entire test takes 15 to 30 minutes. Afterward, the team sends you to the recovery area and reviews the preliminary results of the procedure with you. Then, they send you home.
You must arrange to have someone help you home after your upper endoscopy and plan to take the rest of the day off.
Call Las Vegas Gastroenterology, or schedule an endoscopy consultation online today.