Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

What Is an Upper Endoscopy?

An upper endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to look at the upper digestive tract. The doctor gently guides a thin, flexible scope through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

EGD may be recommended when symptoms cannot be fully explained by a physical exam, blood work, medication response, or imaging alone.

Why Is an EGD Done?

An EGD can help evaluate upper digestive symptoms and identify changes in the lining of the digestive tract.

• Ongoing heartburn or reflux symptoms
• Difficulty swallowing or food sticking
• Upper abdominal pain
• Nausea or vomiting that continues
• Unexplained anemia or possible bleeding
• Suspected ulcers, inflammation, or narrowing
• Monitoring Barrett’s esophagus or other known conditions

What Can an Upper Endoscopy Detect?

Common Findings
Esophagus	Inflammation, reflux injury, narrowing, rings, strictures, Barrett’s esophagus, or swallowing-related concerns.
Stomach	Gastritis, ulcers, bleeding sources, abnormal tissue changes, or signs that may require biopsy.
Duodenum	Inflammation, ulcers, celiac-related changes, or other abnormalities in the first part of the small intestine.

Who May Need an EGD?

You may need an upper endoscopy if symptoms are persistent, worsening, recurring despite medication, or associated with warning signs.

• Reflux symptoms that do not improve as expected
• Trouble swallowing
• Vomiting blood or black stools
• Unexplained weight loss with upper GI symptoms
• Long-standing GERD with risk factors for Barrett’s esophagus
• Persistent upper abdominal discomfort

Is EGD Only for Reflux?

No. EGD is often used for reflux evaluation, but it can also help assess ulcers, swallowing problems, bleeding, anemia, inflammation, stomach pain, and tissue changes that may need biopsy.

Benefits of Upper Endoscopy

• Provides a direct view of the upper digestive tract
• Allows biopsy when tissue testing is needed
• Helps identify inflammation, ulcers, narrowing, or bleeding sources
• Can guide the next step in treatment planning
• Can help monitor known conditions such as Barrett’s esophagus

When Should You Talk to a GI Specialist?

Talk to a GI specialist if upper digestive symptoms continue, return often, interfere with eating, or occur with warning signs such as trouble swallowing, vomiting blood, black stools, or unexplained weight loss.

Related Upper GI Guides

• GERD
• GERD Diagnosis
• Barrett’s Esophagus
• Difficulty Swallowing
• Heartburn

Written Instructions

Areas Examined & Treated
Areas	Esophagus Stomach Duodenum

The Procedure
Diagnostic	The doctor examines the upper digestive tract with a flexible endoscope. Biopsies may be taken when needed. The procedure may help evaluate reflux, ulcers, inflammation, swallowing symptoms, bleeding, or anemia.
Therapeutic	Some treatments may be performed during the procedure depending on the finding. Examples may include dilation of narrowing or treatment of certain bleeding sources when clinically appropriate.

Before Your Procedure
Scheduling	Schedule your procedure appointment with GastroDoxs by phone at 832-632-4070 or through the online appointment request.
Food & Drink	Your care team will give you fasting instructions. Do not eat or drink after the time provided by your procedure team.
Medications	Tell the team about blood thinners, diabetes medications, weight-loss injections, supplements, and all prescription medicines before the procedure.
Transportation	You will need a responsible adult to drive you home if sedation is used. Do not drive yourself after the procedure.

Download EGD Instructions PDF