Dr. Daniel Gay social preview thumbnailDr. Daniel Gay, DO, FACOS
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Dr. Daniel Gay, DO, FACOS
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Diagnostic endoscopy

Upper Endoscopy (EGD) in Boise

Upper endoscopy, also called EGD, uses a flexible camera to examine the esophagus, stomach, and first portion of the small intestine. It can help investigate swallowing problems, upper abdominal symptoms, bleeding, reflux complications, and other concerns.

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Upper Endoscopy (EGD)Patient education · Boise, Idaho
Understand the plan

Clear information for your next decision

01

What it examines

The esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

02

What may be done

Biopsies, evaluation of inflammation, and selected treatments can be performed during the procedure.

03

Preparation

Fasting and medication instructions are important. Sedation generally requires a responsible adult driver.

Interactive visit planner

What would you like to discuss?

Select anything that applies. This tool organizes questions; it does not diagnose a condition.

Common questions

Patient FAQ

Will I be awake?

Sedation practices vary. Your team will explain the plan and required transportation.

Can biopsies hurt?

Small internal biopsies are generally not felt during the procedure.

When should I call after EGD?

Seek instructions for severe pain, fever, repeated vomiting, breathing difficulty, or significant bleeding.

Educational sources and resources
ASGE: Understanding Upper Endoscopy

Information is educational and does not replace an examination or individualized medical advice. Call 911 for emergencies.

Comprehensive patient guide

EGD: Upper Endoscopy: anatomy, treatment, and risks

This guide supports an informed conversation with a surgeon. Recommendations must be individualized after examination and review of relevant records.

Related anatomy

The upper digestive tract includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

Pathophysiology

Reflux injury, ulcers, inflammation, narrowing, bleeding, tumors, and other disorders can affect the upper tract lining.

Diagnosis and evaluation

Symptoms, laboratory tests, imaging, and medication history guide the need for EGD.

Medical and nonsurgical treatment

Management depends on findings and may include diet or medication changes, treatment of inflammation or infection, iron replacement, surveillance, or referral to another specialist. Endoscopy can diagnose disease and sometimes treat it during the same procedure.

Surgical and procedural treatment

A flexible camera examines the upper tract. Biopsy, control of selected bleeding, foreign-body removal, or dilation may be performed.

Risks and tradeoffs

Endoscopy risks are uncommon but can include sedation complications, bleeding, perforation, aspiration, infection, missed lesions, post-polypectomy syndrome, dental injury with upper endoscopy, and the need for additional treatment.

Recovery and shared decisions

Recovery depends on the exact procedure, disease severity, health, work demands, and whether additional treatment is needed. Before treatment, discuss expected pain control, wound care, activity, diet, pathology results, follow-up, and the symptoms that should prompt a call.

  • Ask what alternatives are reasonable.
  • Ask how success and recurrence are measured.
  • Review medications and health optimization.
  • Clarify expected restrictions and follow-up.

Urgent care: Call 911 or seek prompt evaluation for severe or rapidly worsening pain, heavy bleeding, trouble breathing, repeated vomiting, fainting, rapidly spreading redness, or another emergency.

Educational resources

ASGE Patient InformationSAGES: Patient Information for Upper EndoscopyContact Dr. Gay’s Office
Related patient questions

Questions about this procedure?

Explore clear answers to common questions from patients across Boise and the Treasure Valley.

Read Our Complete EGD FAQ

Prepare for your visit

Bring relevant imaging, pathology, laboratory results, medication lists, prior operative reports, and your questions when available.

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Frequently searched questions

More Questions About Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

What is Upper Endoscopy (EGD)?

Upper Endoscopy (EGD) refers to the condition, evaluation, or procedure described on this page. A consultation helps clarify the diagnosis and which options fit an individual patient's health and goals.

What symptoms or concerns are associated with Upper Endoscopy (EGD)?

Symptoms and concerns vary by patient and by the underlying condition. New, persistent, worsening, or activity-limiting symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified clinician.

When should I see a surgeon about Upper Endoscopy (EGD)?

Consider a surgical consultation when symptoms persist, a diagnosis has been made, nonsurgical care has not helped, or you want to understand whether a procedure may be appropriate.

How is Upper Endoscopy (EGD) evaluated?

Evaluation usually includes a medical history and physical examination. Imaging, laboratory testing, endoscopy, pathology, or other studies may be recommended depending on the concern.

What treatment options are available for Upper Endoscopy (EGD)?

Options may include observation, symptom management, office-based treatment, minimally invasive surgery, or open surgery. The safest choice depends on the diagnosis, severity, and overall health.

Does Upper Endoscopy (EGD) always require surgery?

Not always. The need for surgery depends on symptoms, risks, test results, expected benefits, and patient preferences. A surgeon can explain reasonable alternatives.

How should I prepare for a consultation about Upper Endoscopy (EGD)?

Bring a medication list, relevant imaging and reports, prior operative records, and a summary of symptoms. Write down questions and tell the office about blood thinners, allergies, and prior anesthesia concerns.