Which specialist performs upper endoscopy?

During an upper endoscopy, the gastroenterologist guides a thin flexible endoscope through the mouth to view the oesophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine. The procedure can help investigate bleeding, swallowing difficulty, persistent upper abdominal symptoms, or an abnormal scan. The doctor can take small tissue samples for pathology and may treat selected findings during the same examination. Sedation is commonly discussed, although the plan depends on your health, the facility, and the reason for the test.

Follow the fasting instructions so the upper digestive tract can be examined safely. Tell the endoscopy unit about diabetes, pregnancy, allergies, sleep apnoea, heart or lung conditions, and medicines that affect blood clotting. Confirm when regular medicines may be taken and arrange an escort if sedation is planned, because driving afterward may not be safe. Ask whether biopsies or a treatment may be performed during the examination and when results will be available.

Mild throat soreness or temporary bloating can occur after an upper endoscopy. Contact the endoscopy unit promptly for worsening chest or abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fever, black stools, vomiting blood, or increasing difficulty swallowing. Severe pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or sudden breathing difficulty requires emergency care. Use the discharge contact provided by the facility if you are unsure whether a symptom is expected.

Why do I need an upper endoscopy, and will tissue samples be taken? What fasting and medicine instructions apply to me? Which sedation option is planned? When should I expect pathology or examination results, and which aftercare symptoms should trigger a call?