Upper and Lower Endoscopy
Welcome to our new webpage dedicated to Upper and Lower Endoscopies, available at our clinic run by
Dr. Daniel Gay in Boise. These procedures are essential diagnostic tools that help screen your digestive system.
Why May Your Doctor Recommend an Upper or Lower Endoscopy?
Upper Endoscopy or Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and Lower Endoscopy or Colonoscopy are recommended if a doctor suspects a problem with your digestive system or gastrointestinal bleeding. Dr. Gay has extensive experience performing these procedures and recommends performing both during the same appointment resulting in a better understanding of your overall health and less downtime.
EGD diagnoses conditions such as peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hiatal hernia,
gastrointestinal bleeding, esophageal stricture, and celiac disease.
Colonoscopy is used to detect conditions such as diverticular disease or colon cancer in their earliest stages, confirm a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis, and symptoms such as abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation, and rectal bleeding.
How Do You Prepare for an Upper or Lower Endoscopy?
Preparation for EGD includes fasting with no liquids for four to eight hours before the procedure, while colonoscopy preparation involves completely emptying your bowels by following the detailed instructions given by Dr. Gay, including laxatives and clear liquids. The prep time usually takes 24 hours before the procedure.
What Happens During an Upper Endoscopy (EGD) and Colonoscopy?
During EGD, Dr. Gay inserts a flexible cable with a tiny camera and light on it down your throat, through the esophagus, and into your stomach while you are sedated. He can observe abnormalities throughout the esophagus and stomach, take biopsies of abnormal tissue, and even perform repairs if necessary.
During a colonoscopy, Dr. Gay inserts a scope through the rectum and into the lower area of the large intestine. He will look for signs of diverticular disease, polyps, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and other abnormalities.
How Long is Recovery After Lower Endoscopy Colonoscopy or Upper Endoscopy EGD?
Recovery after the procedure involves monitoring in our observation area, and clear liquids and crackers will be offered. You cannot drive for the first 24 hours after the procedure. It is common to experience a sore or scratchy throat from your upper endoscopy, some light cramping, and minor rectal bleeding resulting from your lower endoscopy. There may be some nausea and dizziness for a day or two, but most people return to work the following day.
Why Choose Dr. Daniel Gay for Your Upper and Lower Endoscopy Procedure?
Dr. Gay believes in treating people how they would like to be treated, applying the Golden Rule. He creates a partnership with each patient, stressing the importance of health education and an individualized approach. His extensive expertise has made him one of the top Boise surgeons for this procedure.
If you have any concerns about endoscopy or want to schedule an appointment,
contact Dr. Daniel Gay today.