What to Expect During an Upper Endoscopy

Approximately 7 million upper endoscopies are performed in the United States each year. Even though the procedure is common, hearing that you need one can still bring up plenty of questions. It’s common to wonder how to prepare, whether you will feel anything, or what your doctor is looking for. 

An upper endoscopy gives your gastroenterologist a closer look at your esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine so they can better understand symptoms such as persistent heartburn, trouble swallowing, nausea, or upper abdominal pain. In this guide, you’ll learn why you may need an upper endoscopy, how to prepare, what happens during the procedure, and where to find the best upper endoscopy doctor in Los Angeles.

Why Would You Need an Upper Endoscopy?

An upper endoscopy, also called an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), allows a gastroenterologist to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and upper part of your small intestine. Using a thin, flexible tube with a small camera, your doctor can identify problems that may not appear on imaging tests alone.

Your doctor may recommend an upper GI endoscopy when digestive symptoms persist, worsen, or fail to improve with treatment. The procedure helps your doctor identify the source of those symptoms, collect small tissue samples for testing, and, in some cases, treat a problem during the same appointment.

The table below highlights some of the most common symptoms requiring an upper endoscopy and the conditions your doctor may be looking to diagnose and treat.

How to Prepare for an Upper Endoscopy

Preparing for an upper endoscopy is usually straightforward, but following your doctor's instructions carefully helps ensure the procedure goes smoothly.

Upper endoscopy preparation typically involves:

1. Fasting Before an Upper Endoscopy: Stop eating and drinking for several hours before the procedure so your stomach is empty.
2. Reviewing Medications: Tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take, especially blood thinners or diabetes medications.
3. Arranging a Ride: Arrange for someone to drive you home because the sedative medications can affect your ability to drive safely.
4. Asking Any Questions: Ask any questions you have before the procedure so you know exactly what to expect.

Your care team will provide personalized instructions based on your medical history. If anything is unclear, don't hesitate to ask for clarification before your appointment.

What Happens During an Upper Endoscopy?

When you arrive on the day of your upper endoscopy appointment, you’ll change into a hospital gown and a member of your care team will review your medical history and provide a quick explanation of the procedure. Next, your care team will place an IV so they can administer your sedation. Depending on your treatment plan, your provider may also numb your throat with a spray to help keep you comfortable during the procedure.

Once you're sedated, your gastroenterologist will gently guide the endoscope through your mouth and into your upper digestive tract. The camera sends high-definition images to a monitor, allowing your doctor to carefully examine your esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine.

Most upper endoscopy procedures take about 10 to 20 minutes. Because of the sedation, many patients remember very little about the procedure afterward.

Is an Upper Endoscopy Painful? 

This is a common fear among patients when they find out they need an upper endoscopy. Luckily, because you are sedated throughout the procedure, patients typically feel nothing.

If your doctor notices an area that needs closer evaluation, they may collect a small biopsy. However, patients don't typically feel biopsies because the lining of the digestive tract doesn't contain pain receptors like your skin does.

Recovery After an Upper Endoscopy and When to Call Your Doctor

Upper endoscopy recovery usually happens quickly. After the procedure, you'll spend a short time in a recovery area while the sedation wears off. Before you leave, your doctor will review any initial findings and explain your next steps.

After your appointment, it's normal to experience:

• Mild throat soreness
• Temporary bloating from the air used during the procedure
• Sleepiness for the remainder of the day

If your doctor collected biopsies, those results often take several days to return.

Although complications are uncommon, you should contact your doctor right away if you develop the following symptoms after an upper endoscopy:

• Severe chest or abdominal pain
• Fever or chills
• Heavy bleeding
• Black stools
• Difficulty swallowing that becomes worse instead of better

Following your discharge instructions and giving yourself the rest of the day to recover can help you return to your normal routine as quickly as possible.

Why Choose the Best Upper Endoscopy Doctor in Los Angeles?

An upper endoscopy gives your doctor valuable information that can help diagnose digestive conditions early and guide the right treatment plan. Understanding why the procedure is recommended, how to prepare, what happens during the exam, and what recovery looks like can make the experience feel much less overwhelming.

At Innovative GI, patients receive care from Dr. Cameron Sikavi, a double board-certified gastroenterologist with advanced fellowship training in therapeutic endoscopy, a distinction achieved by fewer than 5% of gastroenterologists. He earned his medical degree from the Robert Larner, M.D., College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, and his background includes training at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Rush University, and Cook County Medical Center. Dr. Sikavi pairs that advanced training with a thoughtful, investigative approach, taking the time to listen carefully, evaluate each patient's symptoms, and provide clear answers that support long-term digestive health.

Are persistent digestive symptoms affecting your quality of life? Schedule an appointment with the best gastroenterologist in Los Angeles to get the answers and care you deserve.