The Upper Endoscopy for Evaluating GI Health
Many common gastrointestinal, or GI disorders have their origin in the upper GI tract, comprised of the esophagus, stomach, and the duodenum, the first portion of the small intestine. Upper GI disorders include acid reflux disease, or GERD, peptic ulcer disease, esophageal cancer, lactose intolerance and gastritis. Because they often have similar symptoms, such as heartburn, nausea, bloating, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and upper abdominal pain, upper GI conditions have long been difficult to diagnose and treat. But today, the upper endoscopy procedure enables physicians to examine the lining of the upper GI tract in real time, and definitively diagnose and even treat the cause of upper GI distress. At Great South Bay Endoscopy, our highly experienced staff of board-certified gastroenterologists employs advanced equipment and procedures, such as CO2 insufflation, which increases patient comfort and promotes faster post-procedure recovery. We are dedicated to providing our patients with the most comprehensive upper endoscopy examinations available, performed with compassion in a comfortable, modern setting.
Understanding the Upper Endoscopy Procedure
Upper GI endoscopy is performed with an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera, which is passed through the mouth into the upper GI tract. Mild sedation is administered, and the procedure causes little or no discomfort. The examination typically takes about 10 minutes. An upper endoscopy is the best method for finding the source of upper GI bleeding, and it is superior to x-rays for detecting inflammation, ulcers, and tumors of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Instruments can also be passed through the endoscope, for example to take a tissue sample, or biopsy, to expand narrowed structures in the GI tract, remove abnormal growths, or staunch bleeding. If you have upper digestive system symptoms of discomfort or pain affecting your quality of life, learn more about what this very effective and affordable endoscopy procedure can do for you. Call or email us today to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified gastroenterologists.