If a doctor has recommended that you get an EGD test, you may be wondering what is in store for you. Here, we will talk about the purpose of an EGD test and what is involved in the procedure – two things that can help you be well-informed on the day of the test.
What Happens During an EGD Test?
An EGD test, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy, is used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. The procedure involves the use of an endoscope, which is a long, flexible tube with a camera and light source attached at the end. The doctor inserts the scope into the mouth and lets it reach down into the small intestine. As the scope travels, the doctor can view real-time images of the upper gastrointestinal tract and take pictures of them, to identify what could be causing your symptoms. To suppress your gag reflex and make it a more comfortable procedure, the doctor may anesthetize your throat and give you pain medication and a sedative.
What Is The Purpose of an EGD Test?
Patients who are recommended an EGD usually have symptoms that the doctor wants to investigate further, such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Chronic heartburn
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
- Bleeding
- Chest pain
- Blood in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
During an EGD, the doctor can remove foreign objects, tissue samples, polyps, tumors, and control bleeding ulcers using specialized tools that can be attached to the endoscope. An EGD is not just a diagnostic and treatment tool but also a screening tool. If the doctor determines that you are at high-risk for certain digestive diseases, they may recommend periodic EGD testing as a form of preventive care. In many cases, an EGD is also used to monitor the progression of certain diseases and the success of treatment.
What Can an EGD Diagnose?
An EGD can be used to diagnose many upper gastrointestinal conditions, such as:
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Tissue damage
- Stomach/duodenal ulcers
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Blocked or narrowed tissue
- Dysphagia
- Benign or malignant cancers
- Hiatal hernia
- Increased vein size in the esophagus
- Crohn’s disease
- Celiac disease
An EGD test provides a lot of useful information that your doctor can use to plan your treatment. Make sure to choose a reputable gastroenterology practice in California for your EGD test for safety and a greater chance of a positive experience.
EGD Testing in California
Trust your gastrointestinal health with inSite Digestive Health Care. We are the largest gastroenterology physician group in California. Our gastrointestinal doctors are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of gastrointestinal disorders, and make available highly advanced technologies – such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy – for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of upper GI disorders.
Schedule your upper endoscopy with inSite Digestive Health Care today. We have locations across California. Call our location nearest you to schedule your test or use our convenient online request form. We look forward to providing all your GI needs!
