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Upper Endoscopy Specialist

Park Gastroenterology

Valli P. Kodali, MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF

Gastroenterologist located in Cary, NC

If you experience digestive problems, heartburn, or other gastrointestinal discomforts, rely on Park Gastroenterology in Cary, North Carolina, for effective diagnosis and treatment. Board-certified gastroenterologist Valli Kodali MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF, and his compassionate team use upper endoscopies to find the root cause of unpleasant symptoms and treat it. Call the office today to schedule an endoscopy or book an appointment online.

Upper Endoscopy Q & A

What is an upper endoscopy?

Dr. Kodali uses an upper endoscopy to examine the upper part of your digestive system. He uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached to it to get an in-depth view of your esophagus, stomach, and the upper part of your small intestine.

What are upper endoscopies used for?

Dr. Kodali might recommend that you undergo an endoscopy to detect or rule out specific gastrointestinal problems and their symptoms, like:

  • Ulcers
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Swelling
  • Tumors
  • Cancer
  • Celiac disease
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Low iron levels
  • Heartburn
  • Vomiting
  • Bleeding
  • Abdominal pain
  • Problems swallowing
  • Unexplained weight loss


At the first sign of the severe or chronic (ongoing) symptoms of a gastrointestinal problem, see Dr. Kodali and his team for an evaluation.

How should I prepare for my upper endoscopy?

To get ready for an upper endoscopy, follow all of Dr. Kodali’s instructions. Stop eating or drinking before the procedure as directed and make medication changes when told to do so. You might receive medicine that makes you feel sleepy and relaxed or blocks pain before an endoscopy. Arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure.

What should I expect during the upper endoscopy procedure?

During an upper endoscopy, Dr. Kodali painlessly passes a thin, flexible endoscope through your mouth and throat into your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine. He could take small tissue samples (biopsies) during the procedure, but this isn’t painful.

What happens after upper endoscopy?

After the upper endoscopy, you'll rest in a recovery area until you feel more alert. You’ll be groggy after the endoscopy, so have a family member or friend drive you home. You can expect some swelling, gas, mild cramping, maybe a sore throat after your endoscopy. These side effects should go away within 24 hours.

Dr. Kodali discusses the results with you and lets you know if you need further diagnostic testing or treatment for a gastrointestinal condition.

If you require an upper endoscopy because of disease risk factors or unusual symptoms, call the Park Gastroenterology office today to schedule an appointment or make one online.