Upper Endoscopy Specialist
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Daniel Reich, MD
Gastroenterologist located in Queens, Forest Hills, NY
If you’re experiencing abdominal pain, nausea, or difficulty swallowing, you may benefit from an upper endoscopy to help determine the cause of your symptoms. Daniel Reich, MD, is a leading gastroenterologist in Forest Hills, Queens, and offers many diagnostic tests to provide answers to health concerns. To schedule an appointment with the board-certified gastroenterologist and internal medicine physician, call his office in New York City, or request an appointment online today.
Upper Endoscopy Q&A
What is an upper endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy, also known as a gastroscopy or EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), is a diagnostic procedure that evaluates your upper gastrointestinal system, including your esophagus, stomach, and the beginning portion of your small intestine (duodenum).
Dr. Reich uses an endoscope, which is a thin flexible tube equipped with a light and camera, to closely evaluate your digestive tissue.
Why would I need an upper endoscopy?
You may need an upper endoscopy if you’re experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms that can’t be easily explained with a physical exam, such as ongoing abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or nausea and vomiting.
The upper endoscopy is also the best test for diagnosing bleeding in your upper gastrointestinal tract.
How do I prepare for an upper endoscopy?
Dr. Reich provides specific instructions on how to prepare for your upper endoscopy. To get the best results from the exam, Dr. Reich requires that your stomach be empty, which may mean that you need to abstain from eating and drinking for at least six hours prior to your exam.
You may also be asked to modify your medication schedule.
What happens during an upper endoscopy?
To reduce pain and help you relax during your upper endoscopy, a board-certified anesthesiologist administers a sedative before your exam. Dr. Reich may also spray your throat with a numbing agent.
Once you’re ready, Dr. Reich inserts the endoscope in your mouth and then slowly advances the thin, flexible tube through your upper digestive system while he examines the images created by the endoscope on the computer screen. If he finds anything unusual, Dr. Reich removes some or all of the tissue and has it sent to the lab for an evaluation.
The entire procedure only takes about 5-10 minutes, but you may need to spend some time in the recovery area for monitoring after the procedure until the sedative wears off.
You also need to refrain from the use of heavy equipment for up to 24 hours after your upper endoscopy, which means you need to arrange to have someone help you home.
Dr. Reich reviews the findings of your upper endoscopy with you and, if needed, schedules a follow-up appointment to review the results of your biopsy or discuss your treatment plan.
For expert gastroenterology care from an experienced physician who takes a whole-person approach to care, contact the office of Daniel Reich MD by phone or online today.
