Upper Endoscopy (EGD) Preparation
An upper endoscopy lets Dr. Maher examine your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine. Preparation is straightforward, and most patients find it much simpler than colonoscopy prep.
Fasting Required
Nothing by mouth 6–8 hrs prior
Light Sedation
Driver required for discharge
Quick Procedure
Usually takes 15–20 minutes
What Is an Upper Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy, also called an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), uses a thin, flexible scope with a camera to look at the upper portion of your digestive tract. Dr. Maher uses this procedure to diagnose the cause of persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained nausea, upper abdominal pain, or abnormal imaging results.
If he finds anything concerning during the exam, he can take a small tissue sample (biopsy) or perform treatment during the same procedure. Dr. Maher personally performs every endoscopy at our Katy office.
Your Step-by-Step Prep Timeline
7 Days Before Your Procedure
Contact our office if you take blood thinners, diabetes medications, or GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro. Some medications need to be paused or adjusted before your endoscopy. Do not stop any medication without speaking to us first.
Stop taking iron supplements at least one week before your procedure.
1 Day Before Your Procedure
You may eat normally throughout the day. There is no special diet required the day before an upper endoscopy.
Confirm that a responsible adult can drive you home after the procedure. You will receive sedation and cannot drive for 24 hours afterward.
The Evening Before
Eat a light dinner and finish eating by midnight. After midnight, do not eat any solid food.
The Morning of Your Procedure
Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6 to 8 hours before your scheduled arrival. An empty stomach is essential for your safety during sedation and for a clear view of your upper digestive tract.
You may take approved morning medications (such as blood pressure medicine) with a small sip of water at least 2 hours before your arrival time. Ask our office ahead of time which medications are safe to take.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Leave jewelry at home.
Checklist for Procedure Day
Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled procedure time. The endoscopy typically takes 15 to 20 minutes, but plan to be at our office for about 1.5 to 2 hours total, including check-in and recovery.
Bring With You:
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- List of all current medications and supplements
- Signed consent forms (if not already completed online)
- Your driver — required, no exceptions
What Happens During the Procedure
Light Sedation
You will receive light sedation through an IV to keep you comfortable. Most patients fall asleep and do not remember the procedure at all.
The Examination
Dr. Maher gently guides the scope through your mouth and into your upper digestive tract while viewing images on a monitor.
Biopsies & Treatment
If he identifies any issues such as inflammation or ulcers, he may take a biopsy during the same exam. You will not feel this.
After Your Upper Endoscopy
You will rest in our recovery area for 20 to 30 minutes while the sedation wears off. Dr. Maher will talk with you before you leave and explain what he found.
You may eat and drink after the procedure, starting with small sips of water and working up to soft foods. Return to your normal diet as soon as you feel comfortable, unless Dr. Maher advises otherwise.
What is normal:
- Mild sore throat that fades within a day or two
- Slight bloating from the small amount of air used during the exam
- Grogginess for the rest of the day from sedation
For 24 hours after sedation, DO NOT:
- Drive or operate machinery
- Make important financial or legal decisions
- Drink alcohol
If biopsies were taken, results are typically available within a few business days. Our office will contact you directly.
When to Contact Our Office
Call us right away at (346) 637-4874 if you experience any of the following after your endoscopy. If you cannot reach our office and your symptoms are severe, go to the nearest emergency room.
- Difficulty swallowing that gets worse instead of better
- Severe or worsening chest or abdominal pain
- Fever above 101°F
- Vomiting blood or dark, coffee-ground-like material
- Black or tarry stools
- Signs of dehydration (no urination, extreme thirst)
Upper Endoscopy FAQs
Clear answers to ensure you are ready for your procedure.
Is an upper endoscopy painful?
How is this different from a colonoscopy?
Can I have an endoscopy and colonoscopy on the same day?
Do I need someone to drive me home?
What conditions can an upper endoscopy diagnose?
Will Dr. Maher perform my endoscopy?
Questions About Your Preparation?
If anything about these instructions is unclear, call our office. We are happy to walk you through every step so you feel completely ready.
Office Hours
Mon–Thu: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Fri: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location
19255 Park Row #104
Houston, TX 77084