Gastroscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a diagnostic procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inside of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

The procedure involves passing a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the end through the mouth and into the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine. The camera sends images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the lining of the digestive tract.

Medical Conditions that Require Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is commonly used to diagnose a variety of medical conditions that can cause discomfort or problems in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Some of these conditions include:.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Ulcers
Inflammation of the esophagus, stomach or small intestine
Gastric or duodenal polyps
Hiatal hernia
Cancer of the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum
Barrett’s esophagus
Gastritis

Symptoms indicating the need for gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is recommended when a patient is experiencing certain symptoms. Some of these symptoms that warrant a gastroscopy include:.

Abdominal pain or discomfort: This includes burning or gnawing pain in the stomach or upper abdomen that may occur after eating.
Difficulty swallowing: This refers to a feeling of food getting stuck or lodged in the throat.
Heartburn: It is a burning sensation that occurs in the chest, often after eating. It is also known as acid reflux.
Unexplained weight loss
Bloody or black stools: Blood in the stool can indicate bleeding in the digestive tract.
Nausea and/or vomiting: This may be accompanied by a decreased appetite.

What to Expect During a Gastroscopy

A gastroscopy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in a hospital or clinic setting. The procedure generally takes around 20-30 minutes.

Prior to the procedure, the patient will be administered a sedative to help them relax. During the procedure, the patient lies on their left side while the doctor inserts the endoscope through their mouth and into the esophagus.

The patient may feel some discomfort, but the sedative should help minimize this sensation. The doctor will then examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum while looking for any abnormalities or signs of disease. If necessary, the doctor may take a biopsy or remove a polyp for further examination.

Recovery After a Gastroscopy

After the procedure, patients are moved to a recovery room where they are monitored until the sedative wears off. They are often advised to stay in the recovery room for at least one hour.

Patients may feel some slight discomfort in their throat or abdomen, but this typically subsides within a few hours. They are usually allowed to eat and drink after the procedure, but may be advised to avoid alcohol, carbonated beverages, and hot liquids for several hours.

Patients may experience some bloating or gas after the procedure, but it generally subsides within 24 hours. They are typically able to resume normal activities the day after the procedure.

Risks Associated with Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is generally considered a safe procedure. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks involved. These include:.

Reaction to the sedative
Bleeding, particularly if a biopsy or polyp removal was performed
Perforation of the esophagus, stomach or duodenum (a rare complication)

Conclusion

Gastroscopy is an essential diagnostic tool for identifying conditions affecting the upper gastrointestinal tract. The procedure is generally safe and well-tolerated, and patients typically experience minimal discomfort.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss, it is important to talk to your doctor about whether a gastroscopy may be necessary.