Upper Endoscopy

Upper Endoscopy test allows a physician to view the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Upper Endoscopy is also referred to as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or panendoscopy. Patients suffering from persistent upper abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea or difficulty in swallowing may need to undergo upper endoscopy to identify the cause. Upper endoscopy can also be used for collecting biopsy sample. Polyps can be removed and possible causes for upper GI bleeding can be located.

Upper Endoscopy aids in diagnosing peptic ulcer disease. Upper endoscopy is invaluable in detecting H. pylori infection. A patient scheduled for upper endoscopy must come on a empty stomach. The patient is asked to lie on his left side. A small bite block is inserted into the mouth. The endoscope is passed through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. A numbing solution is sprayed on the throat and sedative and pain alleviating medicine is also given to the patient. Images of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum can be seen by the physician on a monitor. Air is blown into the stomach to aid examination. Patients on medications for hypertension, heart condition or thyroid problems must keep the physician informed.

Schatzki's Ring

Schatzki's Ring or esophageal ring refers to a smooth and narrow ring of tissue in the lower end of the esophagus. It narrows down and blocks the esophagus. This esophageal ring is noticed among nearly 6% of the population. Schatzki's Ring is usually associated with long term damage due to stomach acid reflux. It can also occur due to a congenital defect. Schatzki's Ring is often associated with a hiatal hernia. Some chunks of food may get caught in the ring and lead to dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing large pieces of food). The degree of difficulty in swallowing depends on the extent of narrowing of the esophagus.It also results in chest pain under the sternum. But very often persons suffering from Schatzki's Ring are unaware of it.

A gastroenterologist can help in treating Schatzki's Ring. An EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) or barium swallow aid in diagnosing this condition. Endoscopic examination of the esophagus also helps in diagnosing Schatzki's Ring. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating soft food can help tackle this. Surgical dilation of esophageal ring with a mercury filled dilator (bougie) can offer relief. Dilators are passed into the mucosal ring to ease the symptoms. The lower esophageal ring tissue can be surgically removed too.