--- title: "Endoscopy (gastroscopy): What to Expect | HealthAnswers" description: "An endoscopy, or gastroscopy, uses a flexible camera to examine the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum, detecting ulcers, coeliac disease and cancer." url: https://healthanswers.co.uk/tests/endoscopy/ robots: noindex --- # Endoscopy (gastroscopy): What to Expect | HealthAnswers Tests & investigations An endoscopy, or gastroscopy, uses a flexible camera to examine the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum, detecting ulcers, coeliac disease and cancer. Written by HealthAnswers editorial team Medically reviewed by [HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel](https://healthanswers.co.uk/our-doctors/) Reviewed 3 July 2026 ## Quick answer What is an endoscopy? An endoscopy, also called a gastroscopy, is a test in which a flexible camera is passed down the throat under local anaesthetic or sedation to examine the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. It can detect reflux damage, ulcers, coeliac disease and cancer. It is usually carried out as a day case procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. ## Who is this page for? This page is for people in the UK who want a plain-English overview of Endoscopy (gastroscopy), including when to seek help and what NHS care usually involves. It explains general information, not what is wrong with you personally. ## Who should skip this page? Skip this page if you need a diagnosis, a prescription, or emergency care. It cannot replace a GP, pharmacist, NHS 111 or 999. If you are in immediate danger, call 999; for urgent advice that is not life-threatening, call 111 in England, Scotland or Wales, or use your GP out-of-hours service in Northern Ireland. On this page 4 sections ## Key facts about the endoscopy - Fasting beforehand is required, so it is important to follow the instructions given. - Sedation is optional, but you cannot drive for the rest of the day if you have it. - Biopsies are taken during the procedure if needed, and this is painless. - A sore throat is common for a short time afterwards. - Suspected cancer cases are referred through the two-week wait pathway. ## What an upper GI endoscopy involves An upper GI endoscopy allows direct visualisation of the upper digestive tract, including the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. It can also be used for treatment during the same procedure, such as widening a narrowed area of the oesophagus through dilatation or banding varices to stop or prevent bleeding. ## Preparing for an endoscopy You will need to fast as instructed before the procedure to ensure a clear view. It is also important to tell staff about any medicines you take, especially anticoagulants, as these may need to be adjusted beforehand. ## What happens during the endoscopy procedure If you have sedation, monitors will be attached to keep track of your heart rate and oxygen levels throughout. Biopsies can be taken painlessly during the procedure and are sent to a laboratory for histology. ## Recovery and results after an endoscopy You can usually eat again once your throat feels comfortable, which is typically once any numbness from the local anaesthetic has worn off. Histology results generally take a few weeks to come back, and your GP or a specialist will follow up with you once they are available. ## ! When to speak to a doctor about the endoscopy A GP will refer you for an endoscopy if you have difficulty swallowing, anaemia, or persistent reflux with alarm features. Call **111** for urgent advice when you are unsure what to do. ## Common questions about the endoscopy Is a gastroscopy painful? A gastroscopy is not usually painful, as a local anaesthetic spray numbs the throat beforehand. Sedation, if used, makes you feel drowsy, and some gagging during the procedure is normal. How long do I need to fast before a gastroscopy? You will usually need to avoid food for around 6 hours and clear fluids for around 2 hours beforehand, though your appointment letter will specify the exact times. Following these instructions closely helps ensure a clear view during the procedure. What should I expect after sedation for an endoscopy? You will need someone to escort you home if you have had sedation, and you should not drive or sign legal documents for 24 hours afterwards. This is because sedation can affect your judgement and reactions for longer than you may feel. What conditions can an endoscopy find? An endoscopy can detect conditions such as oesophagitis, Barrett's oesophagus, ulcers, H. pylori infection, coeliac disease, and cancer. Biopsies taken during the procedure help confirm the diagnosis. ## Sources - [NHS — Endoscopy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/endoscopy) - [NHS — Coeliac Disease](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coeliac-disease)