Upper endoscopy for heartburn and GORD diagnosis

An upper endoscopy can be used to determine the causes of heartburn or GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease). It is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. Upper endoscopy uses a thin scope with a light and camera at its tip to look inside the upper digestive system, that is the oesophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine called the duodenum.

Sometimes the procedure is done as an emergency in the A and E department in a hospital. It could be done to identify and treat upper digestive system bleeding such as from an ulcer.

The procedure is commonly used to help identify the causes of:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Heartburn
• Bleeding
• Swallowing disorders

Endoscopy can also help identify inflammation, ulcers and tumours.

Upper endoscopy can be more accurate than X-rays for detecting abnormal growths and for examining the inside of the upper digestive system.

What should I do before an upper endoscopy?

Before an upper endoscopy, tell your doctor about any medicines (including over-the-counter ones) that you are taking and about any medical problems or special conditions you have.

Special conditions include:

• If you are pregnant, have a lung or heart condition or if you are allergic to any medicines.
• If you have ever been told you need to take antibiotics before a dental or surgical procedure
• If you have ever had endocarditis
• If you have an artificial heart valve
• If you have rheumatic heart disease

If you have any of these conditions or devices, you may be at higher risk of complications or you may need to take antibiotics before the upper endoscopy.

Can I eat or drink anything before an upper endoscopy?

You need to have an empty stomach before an upper endoscopy. Do not eat or drink anything for at least six hours before the procedure unless your doctor or nurse tells you otherwise.

Medicines for high blood pressure, heart conditions or thyroid conditions may be taken with a small sip of water before the procedure.

I have diabetes. Can I take insulin on the day of my upper endoscopy?

If you have diabetes and use insulin, you must adjust the dosage of insulin on the day of your upper endoscopy. Your diabetes doctor will help you with this adjustment. Keep your diabetes medicine with you so that you can take it after the procedure.

Will I be able to drive home following my upper endoscopy?

No. You will need a responsible adult to accompany you home after the endoscopy. You should not drive or operate machinery for at least eight hours after the procedure. The sedation given during the procedure causes drowsiness and dizziness and impairs your judgement, making it unsafe for you to drive or operate machinery.