Expert Endoscopy Care Serving Houston
Endoscopy Serving Houston, TX & Greater Houston
Looking for an endoscopy in Houston, TX? United Gastroenterology Associates provides gastroenterology evaluation and upper endoscopy services for patients throughout Houston and Greater Houston, with convenient office locations in Cypress and Katy, Texas.
An upper endoscopy, also called an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), is a procedure used to examine the upper digestive tract. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, a gastroenterologist may recommend endoscopy to evaluate concerns involving the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum.
Our practice serves Houston-area patients from two convenient locations:
Cypress Office
21216 Northwest Freeway, Suite 640
Cypress, TX 77429
Katy Office
23920 Katy Freeway, Suite 555
Katy, TX 77494
Call (346) 340-4414 to schedule an appointment.
What Is an Upper Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is a procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the upper part of the digestive system.
It is also known as:
- EGD
- Upper GI endoscopy
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
During an EGD, a thin, flexible instrument called an endoscope is used to examine the:
- Esophagus
- Stomach
- Duodenum, the first part of the small intestine
The endoscope contains a camera that allows the gastroenterologist to view the lining of the upper digestive tract.
When medically appropriate, tissue samples, known as biopsies, may also be collected for laboratory evaluation.
If you are looking for an upper endoscopy in Houston, a gastroenterologist can review your symptoms, medical history, medications, and previous testing to determine whether an EGD is appropriate.
Learn more about our general EGD and Endoscopy services.
Common Gastritis Symptoms
Upper stomach pain, burning stomach pain, sour stomach, nausea, bloating after eating, indigestion, feeling full quickly, and loss of appetite are common signs of gastritis.
What Causes Gastritis?
Common causes include H. pylori infection, frequent NSAID pain relievers, alcohol, bile reflux, and autoimmune gastritis, among other digestive conditions.
When to See a GI Doctor
See a gastroenterologist if symptoms are persistent, worsening, or not improving, or if you have a history of ulcers or H. pylori or long-term NSAID use with stomach pain. Need Consultation!
Board-Certified Gastroenterology Excellence
Gastroenterologist in Greater Houston
Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE
At the heart of our practice is Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, a highly respected, board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating diseases of the digestive system and liver.
Dr. Khan earned his medical degree from Dow Medical College, completed his Internal Medicine residency at the University of Toledo, and went on to complete advanced fellowship training in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Tennessee.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Khan has combined outstanding clinical care with academic excellence. He previously served as an Associate Professor at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he participated in the care of patients with complex gastrointestinal conditions and gastrointestinal cancers while contributing to medical education and research.
Dr. Khan has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific publications and has presented research at national and international medical conferences. His work has contributed to clinical practice guidelines and continues to influence the field of gastroenterology.
As a Fellow of both the American College of Physicians (FACP) and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (FASGE), Dr. Khan remains committed to delivering evidence-based, patient-focused care using the latest advancements in digestive medicine.
. He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American College of Gastroenterology and the Texas Medical Association. Learn more..
Advanced Endoscopy, Close to Houston
Endoscopy for Acid Reflux and GERD in Houston
Persistent heartburn and acid reflux can affect daily life and may require evaluation when symptoms continue or do not respond as expected to treatment.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the esophagus.
Common symptoms may include:
- Frequent heartburn
- Acid regurgitation
- Sour or acidic taste in the mouth
- Burning discomfort associated with reflux
- Difficulty swallowing
- Persistent throat symptoms
- Upper abdominal discomfort
Depending on your symptoms and medical history, an upper endoscopy for GERD may be considered to evaluate the esophagus and certain conditions associated with chronic reflux.
Not every patient with GERD needs an endoscopy.
Learn more about GERD and Acid Reflux Treatment.
Endoscopy for Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing, medically called dysphagia, can have several possible causes.
Symptoms may include:
- Food feeling stuck
- Difficulty swallowing solid foods
- Difficulty swallowing liquids
- Pain when swallowing
- Recurrent choking while eating
- A sensation that food is not moving normally
A gastroenterologist may recommend an upper GI endoscopy to evaluate certain structural or inflammatory conditions affecting the esophagus.
Persistent or worsening swallowing problems should be medically evaluated.
Learn more about Difficulty Swallowing and Dysphagia.
Endoscopy for Upper Abdominal Pain
Upper abdominal pain can have many possible causes.
A gastroenterologist may consider factors such as:
- Where the pain occurs
- How long it has been present
- Whether it is persistent or recurring
- Associated nausea or vomiting
- Changes in appetite
- Medication use
- Previous test results
- Other symptoms and risk factors
Not every patient with stomach pain needs an endoscopy.
However, depending on the clinical situation, an EGD may help evaluate conditions involving the upper digestive tract.
Learn more about related symptoms:
Houston-Area Specialists in Upper Endoscopy
Why Might You Need an Endoscopy?
Not every digestive symptom requires an upper endoscopy.
A gastroenterologist considers your individual symptoms and medical history before recommending a procedure.
Depending on your situation, an endoscopy may be considered for:
- Persistent acid reflux
- Chronic GERD symptoms
- Frequent heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing
- Painful swallowing
- Persistent upper abdominal pain
- Ongoing nausea
- Recurrent vomiting
- Suspected gastritis
- Suspected ulcers
- Possible upper gastrointestinal bleeding
- Unexplained anemia
- Barrett's esophagus evaluation
- Abnormal imaging findings
- Other persistent upper digestive symptoms
The appropriate diagnostic approach depends on the individual patient.
For broader digestive care, visit our Gastroenterologist Serving Houston page.
Trusted Endoscopy & GI Care Near Houston
What Can an Endoscopy Help Evaluate?
Clear Answers for Your Digestive Health
Depending on the patient's symptoms and clinical circumstances, upper endoscopy may be part of the evaluation of several conditions.
GERD and Chronic Acid Reflux
For selected patients, endoscopy may help evaluate the esophagus for certain abnormalities associated with chronic reflux.
See our GERD information.
Esophagitis
Esophagitis is inflammation of the esophagus and may contribute to symptoms such as pain, reflux, or difficulty swallowing.
Gastritis
Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining.
Depending on your symptoms and medical history, a gastroenterologist can determine whether additional evaluation is needed.
Learn more about Gastritis Treatment.
Peptic Ulcers
Ulcers can develop in the stomach or duodenum and may cause pain, nausea, or bleeding.
An upper endoscopy may be part of the evaluation when medically appropriate.
Barrett's Esophagus
Certain patients with chronic GERD may develop changes in the lower esophageal lining.
A gastroenterologist can evaluate your symptoms and individual risk factors to determine whether endoscopy or surveillance may be appropriate.
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Upper endoscopy may be used to help evaluate certain causes of bleeding from the upper digestive tract.
The appropriate urgency and evaluation depend on the patient's symptoms and overall medical condition.
Acute Gastritis
Sudden stomach inflammation, often from infection, medications, alcohol, or illness.
Chronic Gastritis
Inflammation that develops slowly or keeps returning over time.
H. pylori Gastritis
Gastritis caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria infecting the stomach lining.
Reactive & Autoimmune Gastritis
Irritation from NSAIDs, alcohol, or bile reflux, or an immune attack on the lining.
Specialized EGD & Endoscopy Care for Houston
What Happens Before an Endoscopy?
Before recommending an upper endoscopy, your gastroenterologist reviews your medical information.
This may include:
- Current symptoms
- Duration and severity of symptoms
- Medical history
- Previous GI conditions
- Current medications
- Vitamins and supplements
- Previous procedures
- Previous imaging
- Relevant laboratory results
- Family history
This information helps determine whether an EGD or another diagnostic approach is appropriate.
How Do You Prepare for an Upper Endoscopy?
Preparation instructions are provided before the procedure.
Because the stomach generally needs to be empty for an upper endoscopy, patients receive instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before the procedure.
Your instructions may also include information about medications.
Do not stop prescription medications unless your healthcare team instructs you to do so.
Follow the specific instructions provided for your appointment.
For additional information, visit our EGD Preparation Instructions.
What Happens During an EGD?
During an upper endoscopy, the gastroenterologist uses an endoscope to carefully examine the upper digestive tract.
The endoscope is guided through the mouth to evaluate the:
- Esophagus
- Stomach
- Duodenum
The camera provides images of the digestive tract lining.
Depending on the findings and clinical situation, the gastroenterologist may obtain tissue samples for laboratory evaluation.
Your procedure team will explain the process and what to expect before your appointment.
Recovery After an Upper Endoscopy
Following an EGD, patients receive recovery and discharge instructions based on their individual procedure.
Your healthcare team may discuss:
- Initial procedure findings
- Whether biopsies were collected
- Follow-up recommendations
- Activity restrictions
- Medication instructions
- Transportation requirements
If tissue samples are sent for laboratory analysis, final results may take additional time.
Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare and procedure team.
Endoscopy vs. Colonoscopy: What Is the Difference?
An upper endoscopy and colonoscopy are both important GI procedures, but they examine different parts of the digestive system.
Upper Endoscopy / EGD Examines:
- Esophagus
- Stomach
- Duodenum
An EGD may be considered for upper digestive symptoms such as reflux, swallowing difficulty, persistent nausea, vomiting, or certain upper abdominal concerns.
Colonoscopy Examines:
- Colon
- Rectum
A colonoscopy may be recommended for colorectal cancer screening or evaluation of certain lower gastrointestinal symptoms.
Some patients may need one procedure, while others may require both depending on their individual symptoms and medical needs.
Learn more about Colonoscopy Serving Houston.
You can also visit:
Endoscopy Serving Houston from Cypress and Katy
United Gastroenterology Associates has physical office locations in Cypress and Katy, Texas and serves patients from Houston and the Greater Houston area.
If you searched for:
- Endoscopy Houston
- Endoscopy Houston TX
- Endoscopy near Houston
- Upper endoscopy Houston
- EGD Houston
- Endoscopy doctor Houston
- Endoscopy specialist Houston
- Gastroenterologist for endoscopy Houston
you can schedule a gastroenterology evaluation at the location that is most convenient for you.
Endoscopy Care in Cypress
Our Cypress location provides convenient access for patients in Cypress and nearby Northwest Houston communities.
Learn more about Endoscopy in Cypress, TX.
Endoscopy Care in Katy
Our Katy location provides convenient access for patients in Katy and surrounding West Houston communities.
Learn more about Endoscopy in Katy, TX.
For complete office information, visit our Locations page.
Why See a Gastroenterologist for Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is part of an overall diagnostic and treatment process.
Before recommending a procedure, a gastroenterologist evaluates the patient's symptoms and relevant medical information to determine whether endoscopy is appropriate.
Your evaluation may consider:
- Current symptoms
- Medical history
- Family history
- Previous procedures
- Previous test results
- Current medications
- Known digestive conditions
This helps guide appropriate diagnostic and treatment decisions.
Learn more about Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist.
For comprehensive GI care, visit our Gastroenterologist Serving Houston page.
Testimonial
Patient Reviews
Our practice is proud to receive consistently positive feedback for compassionate care, thorough evaluations, and excellent patient communication.
★★★★★
"Dr. Khan took the time to explain everything clearly. I never felt rushed and finally understood the cause of my digestive problems."
★★★★★
"My colonoscopy experience was much easier than I expected. The staff made me feel comfortable from beginning to end."
★★★★★
"Professional, caring, and extremely knowledgeable. I highly recommend Dr. Khan for anyone experiencing digestive issues."
★★★★★
"Scheduling was easy, the office was organized, and Dr. Khan answered every one of my questions."
★★★★★
"Excellent experience. I would absolutely recommend United Gastroenterology to family and friends."
Our greatest compliment is the trust our patients place in us by referring their friends and family members for digestive care.
Expert GI Care for Houston-Area Patients
Schedule an Endoscopy Evaluation Serving Houston and Greater Houston
If you have persistent acid reflux, GERD, difficulty swallowing, upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or other digestive symptoms, schedule a gastroenterology evaluation.
United Gastroenterology Associates serves patients from Houston and Greater Houston through convenient office locations in:
Cypress, TX
21216 Northwest Freeway, Suite 640
Cypress, TX 77429
Katy, TX
23920 Katy Freeway, Suite 555
Katy, TX 77494
A gastroenterologist can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether an upper endoscopy (EGD) or another diagnostic approach is appropriate.
Call (346) 340-4414 to schedule an appointment.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a general term for procedures that use an endoscope to examine areas inside the body. An upper endoscopy, or EGD, examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
What does EGD stand for?
EGD stands for esophagogastroduodenoscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy or upper GI endoscopy.
Where can I schedule an endoscopy near Houston?
United Gastroenterology Associates serves Houston-area patients from office locations in Cypress and Katy. Visit our Locations page for office information.
Why would I need an upper endoscopy?
An EGD may be recommended to evaluate certain persistent or concerning upper digestive symptoms, known conditions, or abnormal findings. Your gastroenterologist determines whether it is appropriate for your individual situation.
Can an endoscopy help evaluate GERD?
For selected patients, upper endoscopy may help evaluate the esophagus and certain abnormalities associated with chronic GERD. Not every patient with reflux requires an EGD.
Can an endoscopy help evaluate difficulty swallowing?
An EGD may help evaluate certain structural or inflammatory causes of persistent swallowing difficulty.
Can biopsies be taken during an endoscopy?
When medically appropriate, small tissue samples may be collected during an upper endoscopy and sent for laboratory analysis.
Is an endoscopy the same as a colonoscopy?
No. An upper endoscopy examines the upper digestive tract, while a colonoscopy examines the colon and rectum.