At Redding Gastro Care, we specialize in providing comprehensive endoscopy services in Redding, California. Whether you require an upper endoscopy or another gastrointestinal procedure, our experienced team is here to ensure your comfort and well-being throughout the process.

What is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy involves using a flexible tube, called an endoscope, to examine the gastrointestinal tract through a natural orifice. For procedures involving the upper GI tract, such as investigating symptoms like heartburn or abdominal pain, we perform an upper endoscopy, also known as esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (EGD).

Sedation Options

The endoscopy procedure is usually performed with sedation to ensure patient comfort. The types of sedation used include:

• Light or Conscious Sedation: Involves sedative medication like midazolam combined with pain relief medication such as Demerol or Fentanyl.
• Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC Sedation): Administered intravenously by a qualified anesthesiologist or a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), usually involving propofol.

Indications for Upper Endoscopy

Upper endoscopy is typically indicated for diagnosing and investigating symptoms such as:

• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Upper abdominal pain
• Trouble swallowing food
• Nausea and vomiting
• Anemia
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Malabsorptive disorders like celiac disease
• Screening for esophageal varices in patients with cirrhosis

Therapeutic Uses

In addition to diagnostics, upper endoscopy can be used for therapeutic purposes, such as:

• Variceal Ligation: Preventing bleeding by banding engorged veins in the esophagus.
• Dilation: Treating anatomic narrowing of the esophagus to help patients swallow solid foods.

Procedure and Recovery

• Duration: The endoscopy procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for recovery from sedation.
• Post-Procedure: Patients are advised to avoid driving on the day of the procedure but can resume normal activities the following day.
• Diet: Patients can eat a normal diet once they awaken from sedation and are ready to go home.
• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Avoid eating all solids and liquids after midnight before the day of the procedure.

Safety and Complications

Upper endoscopy is a safe procedure with a very low complication rate. Potential complications include:

• Aspiration: Usually occurs if there is food in the stomach during the procedure.
• Bleeding or Perforation: Very rare, with an overall incidence of less than 0.01%.

Contact Us

For upper endoscopy or colonoscopy in Redding, contact us at Redding Gastro Care. Our team of specialists is dedicated to providing exceptional care and ensuring your comfort and well-being throughout the process.

Ensure your digestive health is in expert hands at Redding Gastro Care. Schedule your consultation today!