What is Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy or oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD), is a minimally invasive medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the lining of your upper digestive tract. The procedure involves using a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope equipped with a tiny camera and light source to visualise your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine, known as the duodenum. It enables doctors to identify the root cause of symptoms like persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or suspected bleeding in the upper digestive system.
Early detection of conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, inflammation, or even early signs of cancer can lead to timely intervention and better treatment outcomes.
What Happens During a Gastroscopy?
Before the procedure begins, you will lie on your left side. You will be given a sedative to help you relax and minimise any discomfort. Once ready, the doctor gently inserts the lubricated endoscope through your mouth and guides it down the oesophagus into your stomach and duodenum. The tiny camera on the endoscope transmits real-time images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to thoroughly examine the lining of your upper digestive tract.
How to Prepare for Your Gastroscopy?
Preparing for gastroscopy is relatively straightforward. Your doctor will provide specific instructions tailored to your needs. You’ll need to fast for a certain period before the procedure, typically 6 to 8 hours. This ensures your stomach is empty, allowing the endoscope a clear view of your upper digestive tract.
Are You Awake for a Gastroscopy?
Most gastroscopies are performed with sedation to help you relax and reduce any discomfort. As a result of the sedation some patients may fall asleep. However, in patients who are not asleep, the sedation makes the procedure more comfortable, and many don’t remember much afterwards. Rest assured, the procedure is generally well-tolerated due to the sedative’s calming effects.
What to Expect After the Procedure?
After the gastroscopy, you will be monitored in a recovery area for about 1-2 hours until the sedative wears off. It’s normal to feel drowsy, bloated or experience a mild sore throat due to the scope’s passage, but these effects typically fade quickly. Since the sedative may impair your reflexes temporarily, it’s crucial to have someone accompany you home and avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for the rest of the day.
How Painful is a Gastroscopy?
Thanks to the sedation provided during the procedure, gastroscopy is usually not painful. You might experience some mild discomfort or a gagging sensation as the endoscope is inserted, but it should be tolerable.
When is a Gastroscopy Needed?
Gastroscopy may be needed if you have persistent or recurrent bloating, nausea, vomiting, gastric pain, gastroesophageal reflux disease, or family history of gastric or oesophageal cancer. Gastroscopy allows doctors to explore your upper digestive system without major surgery. It is a crucial diagnostic procedure for understanding and addressing various digestive issues, leading to improved health outcomes and quality of life. If you ever need to undergo a gastroscopy, rest assured that it is a safe and well-tolerated procedure that can provide valuable insights into your digestive health.
