Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
The gastrointestinal (GI) system includes the organs that break down food and absorb nutrients essential for overall health. When any part of this system isn’t working properly, symptoms can range from mild discomfort to serious health concerns. Paying attention to ongoing digestive issues is important—early evaluation can make a meaningful difference.
At Gastroenterology Associates & The Endoscopy Center in Hilo, HI, our team provides diagnosis and care if you are experiencing symptoms such as:
- Ongoing constipation
- Diarrhea lasting more than several weeks
- Frequent or persistent heartburn
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Blood in the stool
- Trouble swallowing food or liquids
- Persistent abdominal discomfort without a clear cause
- Unexplained weight loss
- Other unusual or recurring digestive concerns
What Is an EGD Procedure?
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), commonly referred to as an upper endoscopy, is a procedure used to closely examine the upper portion of your digestive tract. This includes the esophagus, stomach and the first section of the small intestine (duodenum).
During this evaluation, your physician looks for signs of abnormalities, which may include:
- Tissue or cellular changes
- Unusual growths or masses
- Narrowing or obstruction within the digestive tract
- Areas of bleeding or perforation
- Inflammation or swelling
- Enlarged veins
- Damage caused by stomach acid, bile or chemicals
- Ulcerations in the lining of the GI tract
“Endoscopy” is a broad term describing procedures that use a thin, flexible instrument with a camera and light to view internal structures of the body. Different types of endoscopy are named based on the area being examined.
An EGD specifically focuses on the upper digestive tract, making it a subtype of endoscopy. Other examples of endoscopic procedures include:
- Bronchoscopy (lungs)
- Colonoscopy (colon)
- Cystoscopy (bladder)
- Laparoscopy (abdomen)
- Laryngoscopy (voice box)
- Mediastinoscopy (chest cavity)
- Thoracoscopy (chest/lungs)
Before your procedure, your care team will review your medical history and any medications you’re taking to ensure the test can be performed safely. You may be asked to temporarily stop certain medications and avoid eating for several hours beforehand.
During the procedure, you can expect the following:
- You’ll be asked to remove items such as jewelry, dentures or clothing that may interfere
- Monitoring equipment will track your breathing, heart rate and blood pressure
- Medication will be given through an IV to help you relax and remain comfortable
- A numbing spray is applied to the throat to minimize the gag reflex
- A protective mouthpiece is placed to safeguard your teeth and the scope
- The endoscope is gently passed through the mouth, down the esophagus and into the stomach and small intestine
- Air may be introduced to improve visibility and allow for a more thorough exam
While visualizing the digestive tract, your physician may also:
- Collect small tissue samples for testing
- Treat areas of bleeding
- Widen narrowed sections
- Remove abnormal tissue or growths
- Drain infections or fluid collections
- Repair certain defects
An EGD may be recommended if you have symptoms such as:
- A sensation of food getting stuck in your chest
- Painful or difficult swallowing
- Feeling full after eating small amounts
- Ongoing nausea or vomiting
- Food or acid coming back up into the throat
- Chronic or severe heartburn
- Dark, tar-like stools
- Unexplained anemia
- Weight loss without trying
- Upper abdominal discomfort
- Vomiting blood
This procedure can help identify a wide range of conditions, including:
- Achalasia
- Barrett’s esophagus
- Cancers of the esophagus, stomach or duodenum
- Celiac disease
- Liver disease (cirrhosis)
- Esophageal narrowing (strictures)
- Esophageal inflammation (esophagitis)
- Gastritis
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Gastroparesis
- H. pylori infection
- Hiatal hernia
- Intestinal metaplasia
- Peptic ulcers
- Portal hypertension
- Stomach polyps
Before the procedure, your care team will determine the safest and most appropriate level of sedation based on your health history. Several options may be available:
No sedation – In select situations, the procedure may be performed using only a numbing agent in the throat.
Monitored sedation – Levels may vary:
- Minimal: You remain awake but relaxed
- Moderate: You may feel drowsy and have limited awareness
- Deep: You are asleep but can still respond to stimulation if needed
General anesthesia – In more complex or high-risk cases, you may be fully unconscious, with breathing supported if necessary.
Recommendations
Digestive concerns shouldn’t be ignored—whether symptoms are occasional or ongoing. At Gastroenterology Associates & The Endoscopy Center in Hilo, HI, our specialists are here to help you understand what’s causing your symptoms and guide you toward effective treatment options.
If you’re experiencing changes in your digestive health, now is the right time to schedule an evaluation and get the care you need.