Does a gastroenterology perform upper endoscopy?

The doctor passes a thin, flexible camera through the mouth while you are monitored. It can show inflammation, narrowing, ulcers, bleeding or an abnormal area, and small tissue samples can be taken for laboratory examination. A gastroenterology team usually includes nurses and sedation staff as well as the doctor performing the procedure.

Follow the unit's instructions about when to stop eating and drinking. Provide a current medication list, especially blood-thinning medicines, diabetes treatments and supplements, and mention allergies, pregnancy or previous problems with sedation. If sedation is planned, arrange the transport and supervision specified by the clinic and do not drive until the team says it is safe.

Mild throat discomfort or bloating can occur after the examination. Contact the endoscopy team promptly for worsening chest or abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fever, trouble breathing or swallowing, black stools, or vomiting blood. Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, confusion or heavy bleeding.

Ask what the examination is intended to clarify, whether biopsies may be taken, what type of sedation is offered, and how medication instructions apply to you. Confirm when results will be available, who will explain biopsy findings, and what symptoms should trigger a call to the unit.