Question: Why Is an Upper Endoscopy Performed?
Answer: An upper endoscopy lets your doctor examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (first portion of the small intestine). The upper endoscopy is more accurate than x-ray films for detecting such conditions as inflammation, ulcers, or tumors of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
These symptoms may require an upper endoscopy for investigation:
- Swallowing difficulties
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bleeding in the upper GI tract
- Heartburn
- Abdominal pain
- Chest pain
- Unexplained weight loss
The upper endoscopy can diagnose the following conditions:
- Inflammation in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum
- Ulcers
- Hiatal hernias
- Abnormal growths
- Obstructions
- Precancerous conditions, such as Barrett's esophagus, and cancer
While the endoscopy is in place, your doctor may collect a biopsy sample. Also, during the procedure, your doctor can:
- Remove polyps (growths of tissue)
- Dilate or stretch narrowed areas or strictures of the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum caused by cancer (using balloons or other devices)
- Remove objects stuck in the esophagus
- Treat bleeding due to ulcers, cancer or varices
Sources:
"Understanding Upper Endoscopy." American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. 17 Jun 2009
"Upper GI Endoscopy." NIH Publication No. 09-4333 May 2009. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). 17 Jun 2009
