In an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), a doctor examines the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This test may help diagnose problems in these areas. An EGD test involves passing an endoscope, which is a small camera on a tube, down the throat and along the length of the esophagus.
You may need an EGD test if you experience certain symptoms such as: chronic heartburn, regurgitation, persistent nausea or vomiting that may contain blood, pain in your upper abdomen, or pain and difficulty swallowing.
Your doctor may also examine to see how effectively a treatment is working or to track complications with conditions like Crohn’s disease, peptic ulcers, cirrhosis or swollen veins in your lower esophagus.