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Upper Endoscopy services offered in Chesterfield, MO
You may need an upper endoscopy if you have digestive issues, anemia, abnormal bleeding, or other concerns. At Gateway Gastroenterology, which has locations in Chesterfield, Missouri, you can undergo an upper endoscopy to determine if you have an issue with your esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. Their team of board-certified gastroenterologists can even provide all of the follow-up care and treatments you may need under one roof. If you need an upper endoscopy, call the office to schedule one today.
Upper Endoscopy Q & A
Why do I need an upper endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that may be necessary to diagnose or treat issues that affect your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum or the first part of your small intestine. You may need an upper endoscopy if you have symptoms of:
- Dysphagia (swallowing disorders)
- Acid reflux
- Celiac disease
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)
Upper endoscopy procedures are also a common diagnostic tool to help determine the cause of gastrointestinal bleeding or chronic abdominal pain.
What happens during an upper endoscopy?
The physicians at Gateway Gastroenterology provide in-house upper endoscopy procedures. This allows you to meet with your dedicated physician, undergo your procedure, and get all of your follow-up care in the office.
You’ll be sedated during your upper endoscopy, and your provider may also spray a numbing anesthetic in your mouth to make you more comfortable.
The procedure itself involves placing a long, thin, flexible tube down your esophagus. This tube, called an endoscope, has a camera at the end that allows your physician to view the lining of your upper digestive tract.
Your provider views a monitor closely and looks for abnormalities and unusual growths. They can even manipulate small surgical tools at the end of the endoscope to gather tissue biopsies if necessary. The entire upper endoscopy procedure generally takes less than 30 minutes.
How do I prepare for an upper endoscopy?
Your physician counsels you about how to prepare for your upper endoscopy. In general, they want you to avoid consuming anything by mouth for at least eight hours before your scheduled procedure.
Avoiding certain medications and supplements, particularly anything that thins your blood, is important for several days leading up to your upper endoscopy, too. You need to let your physician know about all prescription and over-the-counter medications you take, so they can let you know if you need to avoid certain types.
Book your upper endoscopy evaluation at Gateway Gastroenterology today. Call the nearest office or request an appointment online today.