An upper endoscopy, often called an EGD (short for esophagogastroduodenoscopy), is an exam of the upper digestive tract: the esophagus, the stomach, and the duodenum, the first stretch of the small intestine. Your gastroenterologist guides a thin, flexible tube with a light and a tiny camera through your mouth and watches the images on a video monitor.
Beyond simply looking, the endoscope also lets your doctor take painless tissue samples, called biopsies, and treat certain problems during the same visit.
Why your gastroenterologist may recommend it
Upper endoscopy helps explain symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty or pain when swallowing, ongoing nausea or vomiting, upper abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss or anemia. It is also used to keep watch on known conditions, such as ulcers or Barrett's esophagus.
The same exam can treat some problems on the spot; for example, gently widening a narrowed esophagus, stopping a bleeding site, or removing something that was swallowed.
How to prepare
Your stomach needs to be empty, so you will be asked not to eat or drink for several hours beforehand; your instructions will list the exact times. Tell your care team about all the medicines you take, especially blood thinners and diabetes medicines, and arrange for someone to drive you home, since you will receive sedation.
During the procedure
Medicine given through a small IV keeps you relaxed and drowsy, and many patients sleep through the exam entirely. A plastic mouthguard protects your teeth, and the tube does not interfere with your breathing.
The exam itself usually takes less than half an hour, and you will not feel it if biopsies are taken.
Afterward
You will rest in a recovery area until the sedation wears off. A mildly sore throat or a bloated feeling is common and fades quickly. Plan to take the rest of the day off from driving, work, and important decisions.
Your doctor will usually share the initial findings before you leave; biopsy results take a few more days. Your care team will tell you when to resume eating and your regular medicines, and which symptoms should prompt you to contact them.
Questions about your care?
This page is general education, not personal medical advice. Your care team is happy to talk through what it means for you.
Preparing for a procedure? See preparation instructions