1. Upper Endoscopy
An upper endoscopy can be used to determine the causes of heartburn
or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) -- and is also often
performed as an outpatient procedure. Upper endoscopy uses a thin
scope with a light and camera at its tip to look inside of the upper
digestive system -- the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the
small intestine, called the duodenum.
Sometimes the procedure is done in emergencies in the hospital or
emergency room to both identify and treat upper digestive system
bleeding such as from an ulcer.
The procedure is commonly used to help identify the causes of:
Abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting
Heartburn
Bleeding
Swallowing disorders
Endoscopy can also help identify inflammation, ulcers and tumors.
Upper endoscopy can be more accurate than X-rays for detecting
abnormal growths and for examining the inside of the upper digestive
system.
What Should I Do Before the Procedure?
Before the endoscopy, tell your doctor about any medications (including
over-the-counter) you are taking and about any medical problems or
special conditions you have.
Special conditions include:
If you are pregnant, have a lung or heart condition, or if you are allergic
to any medications.
You have ever been told you need to take antibiotics before a dental or
surgical procedure
You have ever had endocarditis
An artificial heart valve
Rheumatic heart disease

2. If you have any of these conditions or devices, you may be at higher risk
for complications or you may need to take antibiotics before the upper
endoscopy.
Can I Eat or Drink Anything Before the Procedure?
An endoscopy requires that you have an empty stomach before the
procedure. Do not eat or drink anything for at least six hours before the
procedure, or as directed by your doctor or nurse.
Medications for high blood pressure, heart conditions or thyroid
conditions may be taken with a small sip of water before the procedure.
I Have Diabetes. Can I Take Insulin the Day of the Test?
If you have diabetes and use insulin, you must adjust the dosage of
insulin the day of the test. Your diabetes provider will help you with this
adjustment. Bring your diabetes medication with you so you can take it
after the procedure.
Will I Be Able to Drive Home Following the Procedure?
No. You will need to bring a responsible adult with you to accompany
you home after the endoscopy. You should not drive or operate
machinery for at least eight hours after the procedure. The sedation
given during the procedure causes drowsiness and dizziness and
impairs your judgment, making it unsafe for you to drive or operate
machinery.
What Can I Expect the Day of the Procedure?
A doctor will explain the procedure in detail, including possible
complications and side effects. The doctor will also answer any
questions you may have.
An experienced doctor will perform the procedure.
You will be asked to wear a hospital gown and to remove your
eyeglasses and dentures.
A local anesthetic (pain-relieving medication) may be applied at the back
of your throat.
You will be given a pain reliever and a sedative intravenously (in your
vein). You will feel relaxed and drowsy.
A mouthpiece will be placed in your mouth. It does not interfere with your
breathing.
You will lie on your left side during the procedure.

3. The doctor will insert the endoscope into your mouth, through your
esophagus (the "food pipe" leading from your mouth into your stomach)
and into your stomach. The endoscope does not interfere with your
breathing.
Most procedures take 15 to 30 minutes.
What Happens After the Procedure?
You will stay in a recovery room for about 30 minutes for observation.
You may feel a temporary soreness in your throat. Lozenges may help.
The doctor who performed the endoscopy will send the test results to
your primary or referring doctor.
The specialist or your primary doctor will discuss the results with you
after the procedure. If the results indicate that prompt medical attention
is needed, the necessary arrangements will be made and your referring
doctor will be notified.
Warning
If you have severe abdominal pain, a continuous cough, fever, chills,
chest pain, nausea or vomiting within 72 hours after the procedure, call
your doctor or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.