Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

Some people perfer to use alternative terms such as an upper endoscopy, gastroscopy, or EGD.

Honestly, who the hell wants to have a procedure performed on them that looks remotely close to that word? I sure as hell don't, but unfortunately I don't have much of a choice as that's what's on the docket for 7am tomorrow morning for Miss Erin!!!

Upon doing a little research about this ridiuclous test, I found out the following:

• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is an examination of the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper duodenum with a small camera (flexible endoscope) which is inserted down the throat. You will be given a sedative and an analgesic. A local anesthetic will be sprayed into your mouth to suppress the need to cough or gag when the endoscope is inserted. A mouth guard will be inserted to protect your teeth and the endoscope. Dentures must be removed. In most cases, an intravenous line will be inserted into your arm to administer medications during the procedure. You will be instructed to lie on your left side. After the gag reflex has been suppressed by the anesthetic, the endoscope will be advanced through the esophagus to the stomach and duodenum. Air will be introduced through the endoscope to enhance viewing. The lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper duodenum is examined, and biopsies can be obtained through the endoscope. Biopsies are tissue samples that are reviewed under the microscope. After the test is completed, food and liquids will be restricted until your gag reflex returns. The local anesthetic makes swallowing difficult. This wears off shortly after the procedure. The endoscope may stimulate some gagging in the back of the throat. There may be a sensation of gas, and the movement of the scope may be felt in the abdomen. Biopsies cannot be felt. Because of the intravenous sedation, you may not feel any discomfort and may have no memory of the test.

How incredibly unappealing does that sound?!?! What have I gotten myself into? I think the only good part about it is that I get to come home and sleep ALL day...WHOOAA :)

Wish me luck!