What is an upper endoscopy, or EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), and why would you need one?
An upper endoscopy procedure is when a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in the digestive tract, uses a scope to look inside your upper part of your small intestine (called the duodenum), stomach, and esophagus.
There has been a lot of research in the past decade showing the deep connection between the gut and the brain. Mutually affecting each other in negative and positive ways.
The brain and gut communicate with each other through the trillions of microbes in the gut, via blood circulation, and the gut’s immune and nervous system. As the most central organ, the gut supplies life supporting nutrition to organs in your body.
Signs of poor gut health include digestive issues, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain or discomfort.
The fact is the gut has a huge impact on your health. Recent studies have found depression and anxiety can be signs of a gut issue. The gut is responsible for 70% of our immune system and where a majority of our serotonin is produced. In order for us to feel our best and our gut to function optimally, we need to protect our gut from bacteria that is bad and feed our gut the necessary good bacteria.
Why Choose A Gastroenterologist for your gut issues? The American College of Gastroenterology Explains
The unique training that Gastroenterologists complete provides them with the ability to provide high quality, comprehensive care for patients with a wide variety of gastrointestinal ailments. Gastroenterologists perform the bulk of research involving gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures as well as the interpretation of results, and are considered experts in the field.
Digestive issued tend to be complex and are important not to be overlooked. This is why experience coming from a specialist is key.
We all experience the occasional problem with our gut and digestive system at some point. It is important to identify persistent or recurring symptoms that may be a warning sign and indicate it is time to see a gastroenterologist.
This procedure is used to treat symptoms of the digestive track, such as:
Vomiting and Nausea
Unexplained Weight Loss
Swallowing Problems
Abdominal Pain
Heartburn
Anemia
Non-Cardiac Chest Pain
Functional Indigestion
Vomiting Blood
Preventative screening and testing help detect diseases and conditions in their early and most treatable stages. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida.