Upper Endoscopy Instructions

Upper endoscopy allows our doctors to inspect the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract visually. This includes your esophagus, stomach and the beginning of your small intestine, called the duodenum. Our doctors use a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope. About as thick around as a finger, the endoscope has a lens and light on its tip. It sends video images from inside you to a video monitor that the doctor watches.

Endoscopy Preparations

The only preparation you need to observe is the following: Six hours before your appointment, refrain from eating and drinking, even water.

Medication Questions

Tell your about any medication you’re taking, particularly insulin, aspirin products or antiplatelet agents, arthritis medications, iron supplements, anticoagulants (such as blood thinners like warfarin or heparin) or clopidogrel. They may adjust your normal dosage for your procedure. Continue to take your medications unless the doctor specifically informs you not to. Some medications can interfere with the exam. Upper Endoscopy Procedure

Recovering from Upper Endoscopy

You likely will be sedated during the procedure, so you’ll need to rest while the sedative wears off. You will be monitored until you’re ready to leave. Arrange to have a responsible friend or family member pick you up about an hour after your appointment to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours. You may think you feel all right, but the sedative can affect your judgment and reflexes. As a result, you shouldn’t drive for 12 hours after the procedure.