When Is an Upper Endoscopy Recommended? Common Indications

An upper endoscopy is a valuable diagnostic procedure that allows your doctor to examine the upper part of your digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and beginning of the small intestine, with precision and care. At the office of Dr. Homeira Mehrabian in Newport Beach, CA, patients receive attentive, compassionate care designed to uncover the cause of symptoms and guide effective treatment plans.

Understanding the Purpose of an Upper Endoscopy

Also called an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), an upper endoscopy is used to diagnose or monitor conditions that affect swallowing, digestion, or stomach function. Using a slender, flexible lighted tube with a camera, your doctor can view the lining of your digestive system in real time. This allows for a detailed examination that imaging or lab tests alone cannot provide.

Common Reasons for an Upper Endoscopy

Your physician may recommend an upper endoscopy if you experience frequent heartburn, ongoing nausea, upper abdominal pain, or difficulty swallowing. It can also help identify the source of gastrointestinal bleeding, anemia, or unexplained weight loss. Beyond diagnosis, this procedure may be used to remove small growths, stop bleeding, or collect tissue samples (biopsies) for further study.

What to Expect Before and During the Procedure

Before your appointment, Dr. Mehrabian provides clear preparation instructions to ensure the best results. In most cases, patients are asked to avoid eating and drinking for several hours before the test. Sedation is administered to help you relax, and the procedure typically takes about 20 minutes or less. Most patients do not feel discomfort and have little to no memory of the test afterward.

Recovery and Follow-Up Care

After the procedure, patients rest briefly as the effects of sedation wear off and can usually return home the same day. Mild throat irritation or bloating may occur but typically resolves within a short time. Once results are available, Dr. Mehrabian reviews the findings and discusses any recommended next steps, ensuring each patient understands their ongoing care plan.

Trust in Expert Digestive Care

An upper endoscopy provides important insight that supports early detection and effective treatment of digestive issues. If you’ve been dealing with persistent gastrointestinal symptoms or have been advised to undergo an endoscopy, you are in skilled and caring hands at the office of Dr. Homeira Mehrabian in Newport Beach, CA. Call (949) 791-7155 to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward better digestive health.