By guiding through the mouth a very small camera attached to a thin and flexible tube, an endoscope, your doctor can closely examine your upper digestive system. The procedure is called an upper endoscopy and it's typically used to help diagnose a number of digestive issues, you can learn more by reaching out to Dr. Anubha Sinha of Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists in Flemington and Hillsborough, NJ.
Upper Digestive System
The upper digestive system includes the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine, and an upper endoscopy may be necessary to examine these to diagnose and treat a variety of digestive health issues. Issues such as heartburn, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, and gastrointestinal bleeding, among others.
An upper endoscopy can also be used to collect tissue samples or biopsy, to help detect certain cancers that are typically found in the upper digestive system. Polyps, the small growths that can potentially become cancerous, can also often be safely removed during the procedure.
Considerations
Preparation for an upper endoscopy is not nearly as invasive as a colonoscopy but there are still a few things to consider. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions, but this is generally what you can expect.
You'll likely need to fast prior to the procedure, which usually means no solid foods about 8 hours before, and no liquids within 4 hours.
You also be advised against taking certain medications, so make sure to discuss all the medicine you are taking so that the correct adjustments can be made.
There can be some discomfort associated with the procedure, but sedative medication and an anesthetic are provided to reduce it and eliminate pain, none of the process will interfere with your breathing.
Upper Endoscopy in Flemington and Hillsborough, NJ
You can dial (908) 788-8200 to find out if you can benefit from an upper endoscopy and to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sinha of Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists in Flemington and Hillsborough, NJ.