Services Gastroenterology Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

If you or your child needs an upper endoscopy (EGD) procedure, trust the GI experts at Hattiesburg Clinic.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD) Overview

Upper endoscopy, or EGD, is a procedure that helps diagnose and address issues in the upper digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach and the beginning of the small intestine. Using a flexible tube with a camera, health care professionals can visually examine conditions like inflammation, ulcers and tumors in the beginning of the digestive tract, along with nearby organs and tissues. EGDs are minimally invasive procedures used to identify the causes of symptoms such as heartburn and abdominal pain in children and adults. Call Hattiesburg Clinic if you or your child need to schedule an upper endoscopy in Mississippi.

Why do I need an EGD?
What is an upper endoscopy used to diagnose?
How to Prepare for an Upper Endoscopy
Choose Hattiesburg Clinic for Your EGD Procedure

Why do I need an EGD?

Individuals with various gastrointestinal symptoms may require an endoscopy so that a physician can get an “inside look” to see what is causing their problems. People with the following symptoms may need an EGD or endoscopic ultrasound:

Abdominal pain
Acid reflux
Bloating
Constipation
Cramping
Blood in the stool
Diarrhea
Difficulty swallowing
Nausea
Vomiting

What is an upper endoscopy used to diagnose?

Based on an individual’s symptoms, along with results from an EGD or endoscopic ultrasound, physicians can diagnose a range of conditions in adults and children, like:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Strictures (narrowing or blockages of the digestive tract)
Esophageal varices (larger than normal veins in the esophagus)
Cancers of the digestive tract and other organs like the pancreas
Stomach ulcers or muscle spasms that are not always detected on imaging tests

A doctor may order an upper endoscopy to check for other conditions as well. It is important to be honest and upfront about your medical history and symptoms so that you receive the best course of action and treatment options. Once a diagnosis is made, your GI specialist will inform you of the next steps.

How to Prepare for an Upper Endoscopy

The physician performing the upper endoscopy will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. In general, you should plan for the following:

Adjusting medications, such as blood thinners
Fasting the night before the procedure
Informing the medical team of any allergies or adverse reactions to anesthesia
Arranging for transportation before and after the procedure
Wearing comfortable clothing during the procedure
Following any other instructions from your provider, especially those pertaining to medications, diet and lifestyle changes

Choose Hattiesburg Clinic for Your EGD Procedure

Hattiesburg Clinic is pleased to offer gastroenterology and pediatric gastroenterology services to individuals and families in Mississippi. Our GI experts are trained in detecting and treating a variety of gastrointestinal conditions. We are invested in our patients’ success and take the time to listen and fully understand the issues you are experiencing. In addition to serving both adults and children, we also provide a gastrointestinal hospitalist program.

Call our team today to learn more or schedule an appointment.