Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists
Gastroenterology located in Aiea, HI & Honolulu, HI
If you have unexplained stomach pain or digestive problems, you may need an upper endoscopy to determine the cause. At Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists, with locations in both Honolulu and Aiea, Hawaii, the board-certified specialists use upper endoscopies to diagnose and prevent gastrointestinal conditions and diseases. If you suffer from unexplained bleeding or heartburn that doesn’t relent, it’s time to find out the cause. Call Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists today or go online to schedule your appointment.
Upper Endoscopy Q & A
What is an Upper Endoscopy?An upper endoscopy, sometimes called an EGD, is a procedure that allows your gastroenterologist to look at your upper digestive tract, including your esophagus, stomach, and the upper part of your small intestine.
During the procedure, your doctor inserts a thin tube called an endoscope into your throat that’s equipped with a light and a camera. The camera image is transmitted to a video screen where your doctor can view the inside of your digestive tract.
If necessary, your doctor can use tools through the endoscope to take a biopsy or remove polyps. They may also stretch or dilate the esophagus.
Who Needs an Upper Endoscopy?Your gastroenterologist may recommend an upper endoscopy if you have unexplained gastrointestinal issues like:
- Abdominal or chest pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Problems swallowing
- Bleeding
They can also confirm or rule out a variety of conditions through this procedure, including ulcers, tumors, and inflammation.
How Do You Prepare for an Upper Endoscopy?You prepare for your endoscopy by fasting for at least 4-8 hours before the procedure. This ensures your stomach and digestive tract are empty, giving the gastroenterologist a better and more accurate image.
If you take certain heart medications, especially those that thin the blood, you may have to adjust your medication or dosage.
What Happens During an Upper Endoscopy?When you have an upper endoscopy at Hawaii Gastroenterology Specialists, your doctor may give you a sedative to help you relax during the procedure. Once the medication takes effect, your gastroenterologist asks you to lie on a table on either your back or your side.
They may spray an anesthetic to numb your throat before placing a plastic mouth guard to hold open your mouth. Your doctor then inserts the endoscope (a long flexible tube) through your mouth and into your upper gastrointestinal tract.
The camera on the end of the endoscope transmits images of your digestive tract onto a video screen, where your doctor looks for polyps, ulcers, or other abnormal growths. They may fill your digestive tract with air to get a better view.
If necessary, your doctor inserts tools through the scope to take biopsies, remove polyps, or repair tears.
When you have unexplained stomach issues, you may need an upper endoscopy. Call today to schedule an appointment with Hawaii’s premier gastroenterologists or go online to book your initial consultation.