Upper GI Tract

Understanding Upper GI Tract Disorders in San Diego

Upper GI Tract in San Diego: The digestive system is divided into the upper and lower gastrointestinal tracts, with the upper GI tract including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, which play essential roles in digesting food and absorbing nutrients. When issues arise in the upper gastrointestinal tract, symptoms such as acid reflux, heartburn, bloating, and abdominal discomfort may occur, indicating the need for evaluation and treatment.

As food travels from the throat to the stomach through the esophagus, digestion begins with the help of stomach acids and enzymes. Any disruption in the function of the upper GI tract can result in symptoms such as indigestion, nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, or persistent upper abdominal pain.

When disorders affect these organs, symptoms such as heartburn, reflux, bloating, abdominal pain, or ulcers may occur. These issues can lead to frequent clinic visits or even hospitalizations if left untreated.

At San Diego Advanced Gastroenterology Associates, our board-certified gastroenterologists provide advanced diagnostic testing — including upper GI endoscopy — to accurately identify underlying causes. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medications, or minimally invasive procedures designed to relieve symptoms and restore digestive balance.

If you’re experiencing ongoing upper GI discomfort, don’t wait to seek help.

Call 619-303-9000 or use our online appointment form to schedule your consultation today.

Esophagus

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
Esophagitis (inflammation from acid, infection, pills, or allergies)
Barrett’s Esophagus (precancerous changes due to chronic acid reflux)
Esophageal Strictures (narrowing, often from scarring or inflammation)
Achalasia (esophageal motility disorder)
Esophageal Spasm
Hiatal Hernia
Esophageal Cancer

Stomach

Duodenum (first part of small intestine)

Examples of symptoms in upper GI disorders include:

Weakness / fatigue
Loss of appetite / weight loss
Nausea / vomiting
Abdominal pain and bloating when fluid accumulates in the abdomen
Itching
Jaundice
Portal hypertension, or high blood pressure in the portal vein, which carries blood from the stomach, intestines, spleen, gallbladder, and pancreas to the liver
Fluid buildup in the feet, ankles, or legs (edema) or in the abdomen
Bruising and bleeding

Examples of functional GI and motility disorders which affect the upper GI tract:

Achalasia
Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Gastroparesis
Globus sensation
Dyspepsia
Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction

The Upper GI Tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, plays a vital role in breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and supporting overall digestive health. When disorders affect this area, patients may experience persistent heartburn, acid reflux, nausea, upper abdominal pain, bloating, or difficulty swallowing. If left untreated, these conditions may worsen over time and lead to serious complications such as ulcers, strictures, or Barrett’s esophagus, impacting long-term health and quality of life. Common conditions affecting the Upper GI Tract in San Diego include GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), peptic ulcers, gastritis, esophagitis, and hiatal hernias. Early evaluation is essential for symptom relief, prevention of complications, and long-term digestive wellness in patients of all ages. At San Diego Advanced Gastroenterology Associates, our experienced gastroenterologists perform specialized diagnostic procedures such as upper GI endoscopy (EGD) to assess the digestive system, identify the root cause of symptoms, and provide targeted treatment. Care plans may include medication, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, or minimally invasive endoscopic procedures designed for effective relief. If you’re experiencing ongoing upper digestive symptoms, don’t wait for them to progress. Schedule a consultation today to receive expert care for the Upper GI Tract in San Diego and restore your digestive health with confidence and peace of mind.