Nobody wants to hear they need an endoscopy. Sadly, at some point in life, most people will have to endure a medical procedure that requires precisely that. Upper endoscopy, commonly known as EGD, is one such treatment. This minimally invasive procedure examines the digestive tract to identify and treat specific gastrointestinal disorders and diseases like GERD, Crohn’s disease, and more. However, to ensure the complete success of your operation, gastroenterologist Dr. Vikram S. Jayanty advises patients to prepare accordingly for their treatment. Dr. Jayanty briefly discusses endoscopy Houston and some of the best preparation tips in this post. Read on to learn more.
What Is The Procedure Like For An Upper Endoscopy?
The operation involves the use of a narrow tube known as a gastroscope. The gastroscope contains a tiny video camera and light at its end.
Your doctor lowers the device through the mouth, down to the esophagus, stomach, and finally the duodenum. The video camera captures and records the pictures collected by the tube and projects these images onto a real-time monitor. In some instances, the gastroscope may contain attachments to collect samples for a biopsy or to perform laser therapy.
How To Prepare For Upper Endoscopy?
Endoscopy preparation entails foregoing specific foods, beverages, and medications for a specific period. Here are several endoscopic procedure preparations that could help you relax:
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Consult Your Physician
The most crucial aspect of upper endoscopy preparation is speaking with your physician. Your doctor will tell you what you should do to prepare for the surgery, such as if you are taking medications, which ones you should quit, and when before the treatment. If you have any queries or concerns about your therapy, arrange a consultation with Dr. Jayanty beforehand.
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Know When To Quit Drinking And Eating
As part of your preparation for endoscopy, you must stop drinking and eating well before the procedure. This practice reduces the odds that your stomach contents will reflux and be inhaled. Your gastroenterologist will inform you how many hours before the procedure you must cease eating.
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Plan For A Ride Home
An endoscopy may require anesthesia. Therefore, you will not be able to drive yourself home. Plan for a relative or friend to drive you home following the procedure.
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Anticipate Minor Post-Procedure Discomfort
Even though the treatment is minimally intrusive, you may suffer discomfort afterward, such as bloating or a sore throat. You can utilize over-the-counter drugs prescribed by your physician, consume ice pops, or take frequent walks to alleviate the pain. Nonetheless, the symptoms should disappear within two or three days.
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Inform Your Healthcare Provider If You Use Any Blood Thinners
Endoscopies pose a danger of bleeding. The scope’s tip could scrape the duodenum, esophagus, or stomach lining. Alternatively, your doctor might need to collect tissue samples or polyps for biopsy. Thus, inform your doctor about any blood-thinning drugs you use to avoid the potential risk of hemorrhaging.
Relaxing during an invasive medical treatment is difficult, particularly if you are nervous, but these suggestions will help you get through it. If you require an upper endoscopy in Houston, you can rest confident that Dr. Vikram S. Jayanty and his team of skilled physicians will perform the treatment with exceptional skill. Schedule an initial consultation through mobile or request online to get started.
