4 Reassuring Facts About Upper Endoscopies

If Jigneshkumar B. Patel, MD, has recommended an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (an upper endoscopy), it’s normal to feel a little nervous. Many people worry about discomfort or the idea of a scope procedure. 

The good news is that upper endoscopies are very common, quick, and designed to help Dr. Patel safely evaluate your digestive symptoms.

At Bay Area Gastroenterology Associates, LLC, upper endoscopy is a routine procedure that allows our team to observe your upper digestive tract and identify potential issues, such as inflammation, ulcers, reflux damage, and other gastrointestinal concerns.

If you’ve learned that you may need an upper endoscopy, read on as our team shares four reassuring facts that may help put your mind at ease.

1. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive 

Most upper endoscopies take about 10 to 20 minutes to complete.

During the procedure, Dr. Patel puts a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera (the endoscope) through your mouth and into your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, allowing Dr. Patel to view your digestive lining. 

The exam itself is short; however, you need additional time for preparation and recovery.

One more reassuring fact: Not only is the procedure quick, but it’s also non-surgical. Because the camera on the endoscope provides a clear internal view, no surgical incision is required to examine your digestive system. This fact makes an upper endoscopy a minimally invasive procedure rather than a traditional surgery.

2. You are sedated

If you’re worried about the sensation or discomfort during the procedure, you’re not alone. These are common concerns, but fortunately, upper endoscopies are performed with sedation to help you relax and remain comfortable. In most cases, this gets completed with intravenous propofol. 

Sedation has two benefits:

• Minimize discomfort
• Amnesia affects you so you remember little or nothing afterward 

Our goal is for your experience to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

3. It helps diagnose symptoms quickly

Upper endoscopy provides a clear view of your upper digestive tract, which helps Dr. Patel identify problems that may not show up on imaging tests alone.

He may recommend an upper endoscopy if you are experiencing symptoms such as:

• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained nausea or vomiting
• Ongoing stomach pain
• Gastrointestinal bleeding

During the procedure, Dr. Patel can also take small tissue samples (biopsies) if needed to help confirm a diagnosis.

4. Recovery is usually fast

Most people recover quickly after an upper endoscopy. You need someone to drive you home since we use sedation, but many people feel back to normal later the same day.

You may experience mild throat soreness or temporary bloating, which usually resolves quickly.

Dr. Patel typically reviews initial findings with you after the procedure and discusses next steps if further treatment or testing is needed.

Get answers about your digestive health

Digestive symptoms can be frustrating and sometimes concerning, but thankfully, an upper endoscopy can be the diagnostic tool that helps Dr. Patel get clear answers for you.

If you’ve been experiencing persistent digestive symptoms or your doctor has recommended an upper endoscopy, contact us to schedule a consultation today and learn more about your next steps toward better digestive health.

You can also reach our Trinity, Florida, office at 727-372-4500.