When Might I Need an Upper Endoscopy?

If you’ve been dealing with persistent stomach or digestive issues, Dr. Husney might suggest an upper endoscopy to figure out what’s going on. This simple procedure allows him to take a close look at your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine using a tiny camera on the end of a thin, flexible tube.

An upper endoscopy is different from other types of endoscopies. For example, a colonoscopy is used to check for problems in the colon, while a sigmoidoscopy examines the rectum and lower part of the colon. An upper endoscopy, however, focuses on diagnosing conditions that affect your upper digestive system.

Having a tube inserted down your throat sounds scary, but you’re in good hands with Dr. Jack Husney. As a board-certified gastroenterologist in Brooklyn, New York, he has the experience and skill to ensure the process goes smoothly and with minimal discomfort. 

If you’re wondering whether you need an upper endoscopy, let’s review some of the most common reasons that Dr. Husney might recommend one.

Signs you might need an upper endoscopy

Your body sends warning signs when something isn’t working right with your digestive system. Some of the most common symptoms that might warrant an upper endoscopy include:

Frequent heartburn or acid reflux

Occasional heartburn after a large meal isn’t usually a cause for concern, but if you’re experiencing frequent acid reflux, it could be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

GERD can cause esophageal damage, ulcers, or even Barrett’s esophagus, which increases the risk of esophageal cancer. An upper endoscopy gives Dr. Husney a way to check for damage, so he can quickly determine the best course of action.

Difficulty swallowing

Do you struggle to swallow or feel as though food gets stuck in your throat? That’s not something to ignore. It could be caused by narrowing of the esophagus, achalasia, or even esophageal cancer. An upper endoscopy allows Dr. Husney to check for blockages or other issues that could be making it hard for you to eat.

Unexplained nausea or vomiting

If you’re dealing with unexplained nausea or vomiting without a clear cause, an upper endoscopy may be necessary to check for underlying issues such as gastritis, ulcers, or blockages in your digestive tract. Chronic vomiting can lead to dehydration and other complications, so it’s crucial to get a diagnosis sooner rather than later.

Chronic stomach pain or indigestion

Mild stomach aches come and go, but if you have chronic abdominal pain or persistent indigestion that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter treatments, it’s worth examining. Conditions like peptic ulcers, gastritis, or even stomach cancer could be responsible.

Unexplained weight loss

If you’re losing weight without trying, it could be due to an issue in your digestive system. Malabsorption, ulcers, or even certain cancers could be the cause, and an upper endoscopy can help identify the problem early.

Bleeding in the digestive tract

If you notice black, tarry stools or are vomiting blood, this could indicate internal bleeding in your upper digestive system. Bleeding in your digestive tract is a medical emergency, and an upper endoscopy is the quickest way to locate the source of the bleeding and determine the best way to treat it.

What else is an endoscopy good for

Because an upper endoscopy gives Dr. Husney a direct view, it’s often more effective than imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans. Besides finding out what’s causing your symptoms, an upper endoscopy can also help treat certain conditions on the spot. Dr. Husney can:

• Remove polyps or abnormal growths
• Stop bleeding if there’s an ulcer or a blood vessel problem
• Gently stretch a narrowed esophagus to help with swallowing problems
• Remove stuck objects, like food that won’t pass through

An upper endoscopy might sound intimidating, but it’s a quick, easy, and instrumental test that helps us diagnose and treat many digestive problems. 

If you’ve been struggling with persistent symptoms like heartburn, trouble swallowing, nausea, or stomach pain, an upper endoscopy can provide the answers you need. Call or click online to schedule an appointment with Dr. Husney in Brooklyn, New York, today.