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.
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.
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.