An Upper Endoscopy, also known as Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a procedure used to determine the cause of gastrointestinal disorders and symptoms which may include heartburn, Barrett's esophagus, the presence of hiatal hernias, the cause of abdominal pain, unexplained anemia, the cause of swallowing difficulties, upper GI bleeding, the presence of tumors, ulcers and any other gastrointestinal concerns. This procedure allows your Physician to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (first portion of the small intestine).
Instructions for Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Your Physician will give you specific instructions to follow to prepare for your upper endoscopy. An empty stomach allows for the best and safest examination. You will be instructed on when you must stop eating and drinking. After that time, you will not be allowed to eat, drink or put anything in your mouth (including gum, candy, mints, lozenges etc.) until after your procedure has been completed. Continue any heart, blood pressure, seizure, and pain medications up to and including the day of the Procedure. Take these medications at least 2 hours before arriving for your Procedure with a small sip of water. If you take blood thinners or aspirin, you need to verify with your Physician when and if you to stop them.
A Colonoscopy is an examination of the entire large intestine, also known as the colon. This exam is the preferred method of screening for colon polyps and colon cancer. A Colonoscopy is used to determine possible causes of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea and other intestinal problems.
Instructions for a Colonoscopy
Thorough cleansing of the entire bowel is essential for effective procedure results. Instructions for this bowel cleansing will be given by your Physician. This may include a prescription for a colon preparation. The following recommendations are general guidelines, however, your Physician may have varying instructions for you and your specific procedure. Be sure to read the instructions carefully several days prior to your procedure, get your prescription filled and have all needed supplies.
For the Colonoscopy procedure, the preparation consists of nothing solid to eat the day before the procedure as well as the day of the procedure. To avoid dehydration and to feel better during the colon prep period, you will be instructed to drink plenty of clear liquids. Examples of clear liquids are: water, bouillon or broth, gelatin, fruit juice (no grape juice or any liquid with red color), and coffee/tea without cream/milk. Several hours prior to your procedure you will then be instructed to stop drinking. You will not be allowed to drink or put anything in your mouth (including gum, candy, mints, lozenges etc.) until after your procedure is completed. Continue any heart, blood pressure, seizure, and pain medications up to and including the day of the Procedure. Take these medications at least 2 hours before arriving for your Procedure with a small sip of water. If you take blood thinners or aspirin, you need to verify with your Physician when and if you need to stop them
There are several different types of colon preparations. Your Physician will prescribe the one that is best for you and give you the best results. If you have any questions or concerns regarding you colon preparation, please contact you Physician.
If you have a history of chronic constipation, your Physician may prescribe additional preparation.
Instructions for Both Upper Endoscopy and Colonoscopy on the Same Day
Please refer to the Colonoscopy instructions.