Upper Endoscopy: What to Expect Before, During, and After

An upper endoscopy is a valuable diagnostic procedure that allows doctors to examine the upper part of your digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine. This procedure is often recommended to investigate symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, or unexplained nausea. At Homeira Mehrabian MD, Inc., located in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Homeira Mehrabian provides expert care for patients undergoing an upper endoscopy, ensuring a comfortable and thorough experience from start to finish.

What to Expect Before Your Endoscopy

Before your upper endoscopy, you’ll receive detailed instructions to prepare for the procedure. Typically, you’ll be asked to avoid eating or drinking for several hours beforehand to ensure your stomach is empty. This helps provide a clear view of your digestive tract and reduces the risk of complications during the procedure. Dr. Mehrabian and her team will review your medical history and any medications you’re taking. In some cases, you may need to adjust or temporarily stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, to ensure a safe procedure. If you have any questions or concerns about the preparation process, the team at Homeira Mehrabian, MD Inc. is always available to provide guidance and support.

What Happens During the Procedure

An upper endoscopy is a relatively quick and minimally invasive procedure that typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Before the procedure begins, you’ll be given a sedative to help you relax and ensure your comfort.

Once you’re sedated, Dr. Mehrabian will gently insert a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope through your mouth and into your upper digestive tract. The endoscope is equipped with a tiny camera that transmits images to a monitor, allowing Dr. Mehrabian to carefully examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. If necessary, small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken during the procedure for further analysis. The endoscope can also be used to treat certain conditions, such as removing polyps or stopping bleeding.

What to Expect After Your Endoscopy

After the procedure, you’ll be monitored in a recovery area until the effects of the sedative wear off. Dr. Mehrabian will discuss the initial findings with you and provide instructions for aftercare. If biopsies were taken, you’ll be informed when to expect the results. It’s important to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as the sedative can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day.

Schedule Your Upper Endoscopy Today

If you’ve been experiencing digestive symptoms and need an upper endoscopy, Homeira Mehrabian, MD Inc. is here to help. Dr. Homeira Mehrabian and her team provide compassionate, personalized care to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. Call 949-791-7155 to schedule your appointment at our Newport Beach, CA office.