A gastroscopy, also known as an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, is a procedure used to examine the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.
During the procedure, a doctor passes a thin, flexible tube with a small camera through the mouth and into the upper digestive tract. This allows the doctor to look for inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, polyps, tumours and other abnormalities. If necessary, a small tissue sample, known as a biopsy, may also be taken for laboratory testing.
You should consult a doctor if you experience persistent or recurring stomach pain, indigestion or acid reflux that does not improve with medication.
A gastroscopy may also be recommended for:
The doctor will decide whether a gastroscopy is appropriate after considering your age, symptoms, medical history and individual risk factors. Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding and requires prompt medical attention.
You will need to fast before the procedure according to the instructions provided by the clinic or hospital.
Tell your doctor if you take blood-thinning medication, diabetes medication or any other regular medicines. Do not stop taking prescribed medication unless instructed to do so.
A local anaesthetic throat spray or intravenous sedation may be used to reduce discomfort. If you receive sedation, you will usually need someone to accompany you home. You should also avoid driving, operating machinery or making important decisions for the period advised by your healthcare team.
A gastroscopy should not normally cause severe pain, although you may experience gagging, a mild sore throat, bloating or temporary discomfort.
Gastroscopy is a commonly performed procedure, but it still carries a small risk of complications, including bleeding, perforation and reactions to sedation.
Seek medical attention immediately if you develop severe or worsening chest or abdominal pain, fever, breathing difficulties, vomiting blood or black stools after the procedure.
Yes. During a gastroscopy, the doctor can take a small sample from the stomach lining and test it for Helicobacter pylori, commonly known as H. pylori.
However, a urea breath test and stool antigen test are also commonly used to detect H. pylori. The most suitable test will depend on your symptoms, medical history, current medication and whether a gastroscopy is otherwise required.
