Medically Reviewed by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG | Updated 03-24-2026EGD preparation is usually simpler than colonoscopy, but fasting, medication review, sedation planning, and transportation still matter.
This page explains the practical steps patients usually want to understand before moving forward.
Upper endoscopy evaluates the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine when symptoms or test results suggest an upper digestive problem.
Persistent reflux, trouble swallowing, food sticking, vomiting, unexplained anemia, black stools, upper abdominal pain, or suspected ulcer disease may lead to EGD planning.
A thin flexible scope is passed through the mouth while sedation is commonly used. The doctor looks for inflammation, narrowing, ulcers, bleeding, or other findings.
Biopsies can help check for inflammation, infection, celiac disease, Barrett’s esophagus, or other tissue-level changes that cannot be confirmed by appearance alone.
You will receive fasting instructions, medication guidance, arrival details, and transportation rules before the procedure.
Your care team reviews findings, biopsy results if taken, medication changes, follow-up testing, or treatment planning based on the results.
Our team can walk you through your symptoms, personal risk factors, what the procedure involves, how to prepare, and what your insurance covers — so you can make a confident, informed decision before you book.