Gastroscopy
What is Gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy is one of the most used tests for diagnosing problems with the oesophagus (food pipe) and the stomach. It can be used to diagnose (or rule out) a wide range of conditions and for treatment in some instances too.
Gastroscopy is an endoscopic procedure focusing on the first part of the digestive system and involves a narrow, flexible tube (an endoscope) with a light and a camera on the end. This means the doctor can see the structure/appearance of the upper gastrointestinal tract on a screen.
It used for people experiencing a wide range of symptoms (e.g. indigestion, swallowing issues, chest pain, vomiting/regurgitation) or suspected coeliac disease, Barrett’s Oesophagus and peptic ulcers.
A doctor may also use a gastroscopy to take biopsies to check for cancer or test the tissue for a range of conditions. It can also be used to remove growths or widen the oesophagus if it has narrowed.
What happens during a Gastroscopy?
Patients will be asked to fast before gastroscopy (as they work best when the stomach is empty) and may need to stop taking medications for any stomach issues. A simple investigation might take only 10 minutes (but with prep and recovery time expect to be at the hospital for a few hours).
Gastroscopy can be carried out under local anaesthetic or sedative, depending on the patient’s preference. The endoscope will be passed through the oesophagus and down towards the stomach. This can be uncomfortable, but it doesn’t last long. Common side include a sore throat, bloating and difficulty in eating regular meals for 24 hours after the procedure.
Dr Rehan Haidry is an experienced consultant gastroenterologist who carries out gastroscopies regularly for diagnosis, investigation, and treatment purposes.
Get In Touch
For any enquiries about conditions, tests or treatments, please feel free to call Dr Rehan Haidry’s medical secretary Debra Hyams on:
Tel: 0203 423 7609 | Email: rhaidrymedsec@ccf.org