Upper GI Endoscopy is also known as Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, EGD or Gastroscopy. The examination includes direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Upper Endoscopy is performed in the GI Unit of Doylestown Hospital. Before the examination, patients are made comfortable on their side and a numbing agent is sprayed into the throat to suppress the gag reflex. Sedatives and pain medicine are administered by an intravenous drip, which helps patients to relax. Most patients doze in a light sleep during the 5-10 minute examination when a thin, flexible, lighted tube is gently passed through the mouth into the gastrointestinal tract. Afterwards patients are observed for 30-60 minutes before discharge. Patients usually feel no after effects of the test other than an occasional mild sore throat; but since they have had sedative medication, they should not drive or engage in other potentially hazardous activities for 24 hours.