The upper GI tract is generally considered to be
the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and finally the first part of the small intestine (duodenum)
. The lower GI tract runs from the small intestine to the large intestine (colon) to the anus.
What does an upper and lower GI show?
The upper GI test
examines the esophagus, stomach, and part of the small intestine
. For this test, the patient swallows a contrast solution that contains barium (a chalky substance that makes it easier to see the organs on the X-ray). The lower GI test examines the large intestine and the rectum.
What organs are included in the upper and lower GI tracts?
For the purposes of endoscopy, the upper GI tract includes
the esophagus, stomach and duodenum
(esophagogastroduodenoscopy [EGD] or upper GI endoscopy UGIE), and the lower GI tract includes the anus, rectum, colon, and cecum (anoproctosigmoidocolonoscopy or lower GI endoscopy).
What does the lower GI tract consist of?
What is the lower GI tract? The lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the last part of the digestive tract. The lower GI tract consists of
the large intestine and the anus
. The anus is a 1-inch opening at the end of your digestive tract through which stool leaves your body.
What does an upper GI consist of?
Upper gastrointestinal tract radiography, also called an upper GI, is an
x-ray examination of the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine (also known as the duodenum)
. Images are produced using a special form of x-ray called fluoroscopy and an orally ingested contrast material such as barium.
Why would a doctor order an upper GI?
Your doctor may order an upper GI endoscopy
if you have long-term symptoms of GERD
. Typical symptoms include heartburn, indigestion, regurgitation and nausea. Doctors perform an upper GI endoscopy with a special light that highlights abnormal tissue, and then they take a biopsy.
Are you put to sleep for upper GI?
It is not needed for a standard upper endoscopy. You will be awake during the procedure, but you will
take medicine to relax you
(a sedative) before the test. Someone will have to drive you home afterward.
How can you tell the difference between upper and lower GI bleeding?
Upper GI bleeding includes hemorrhage originating from the esophagus to the ligament of Treitz, at the duodenojejunal flexure[13]. Lower GI bleeding is defined as bleeding that
originates from a site distal to the ligament of
Treitz[14].
What organs are included in the upper GI tract?
The upper GI tract is generally considered to be the
mouth, esophagus, stomach, and finally the first part of the
small intestine (duodenum). The lower GI tract runs from the small intestine to the large intestine (colon) to the anus.
How do you know if you have gastrointestinal bleeding?
- black or tarry stool.
- bright red blood in vomit.
- cramps in the abdomen.
- dark or bright red blood mixed with stool.
- dizziness or faintness.
- feeling tired.
- paleness.
- shortness of breath.
How do I know if my intestines are blocked?
Symptoms of an intestinal blockage include
severe belly pain or cramping, vomiting, not being able to pass stool or gas
, and other signs of belly distress.
What is the correct order through the GI tract?
The organs that make up your GI tract, in the order that they are connected, include
your mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine and anus.
How long does it take to do an upper and lower GI?
Both of the procedures usually takes
about 45 minutes
, combined. However, this will depend on whether you choose to have Equanox (Gas & Air) or to be sedated. If you choose to be sedated, please allow two to four hours. If you choose not to be sedated then your stay may be shorter.
Can I drive after an upper GI?
For safety reasons,
you can’t drive for 24 hours after the procedure
, as the sedatives used during the procedure need time to wear off. You will need to make plans for getting a ride home after the procedure.
What’s the difference between an upper GI and an endoscopy?
By tradition, “endoscopy” or “upper GI endoscopy” refers to the examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract: the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The correct term is esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), so you can see why we stick with “upper GI endoscopy.”
What does a upper GI test show?
An upper GI X-ray is used to help find the cause of problems such as swallowing difficulties,
unexplained vomiting, nausea, abdominal discomfort
, and severe indigestion. It can detect signs of problems such as ulcers, gastric reflux, hiatal hernia, or blockages or narrowing of the upper GI tract.
