An upper endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a tiny camera to examine the inside of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

It allows your physician to determine a number of underlying problems including bowel obstruction, ulcers, hernias, inflammation, or abnormal growths. It also tests for the source of gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, acid reflux, abdominal pain, or bloody stool.

An upper endoscopy is performed with a small camera, called an endoscope, which goes down your throat into your esophagus, stomach and the top of your small intestine. It is an outpatient procedure, and can be done at the same time as a colonoscopy if your physician determines that you need both tests.