GASTROSCOPY

A gastroscopy is otherwise known as an endoscopy. This common procedure is painless and straightforward, designed to help diagnose a range of gastrointestinal conditions.

The procedure involves inserting a thin, long tube with a built-in camera, through the mouth and down into the stomach. Along the way, the consultant will look for any problems within the oesophagus, duodenum, and stomach.

A small section of tissue may need to be taken during the procedure. This is typically done via small forceps that are transferred through the endoscope.

WHY WOULD YOU NEED IT?

A gastroscopy can be used to diagnose problems within the gullet, small intestine, or stomach. Common reasons why patients are referred for the procedure include:

Indigestion
Heartburn
Long-term stomach pain
Vomiting blood
Trouble swallowing

These symptoms may indicate conditions such as a hiatus hernia, stomach ulcers, and coeliac disease. In rare cases, it may also be able to detect cancer.

While it is mainly used to diagnose specific conditions, a gastroscopy can occasionally be used to treat certain ailments too. It can help to widen the food pipe, helping patients having difficulty swallowing. The procedure can also help to remove growths and stop bleeding within the oesophagus.

GASTROSCOPY TREATMENT

A gastroscopy is typically carried out by a nurse and a doctor, and you’ll remain fully conscious throughout the procedure. However, to help you relax, a mild sedative can be provided. To ensure the procedure is painless, a spray may also be used to numb the throat.

An endoscope will be passed through the mouth, down the gullet and into the stomach. You won’t need to worry about any difficulty breathing as the tube isn’t inserted into the windpipe. As the tube travels down into your stomach, the doctor will be able to see everything thanks to a bright light and camera attached to the endoscope.

Gas will be pumped into the stomach, so you may feel a little bloated. A biopsy may also be taken if needed, before the endoscope is removed. It’s common for patients to be anxious prior to their appointment but knowing what to expect can help to ease your mind.

These symptoms may indicate conditions such as a hiatus hernia, stomach ulcers, and coeliac disease. In rare cases, it may also be able to detect cancer.

While it is mainly used to diagnose specific conditions, a gastroscopy can occasionally be used to treat certain ailments too. It can help to widen the food pipe, helping patients having difficulty swallowing. The procedure can also help to remove growths and stop bleeding within the oesophagus.

GASTROSCOPY TREATMENT

A gastroscopy is typically carried out by a nurse and a doctor, and you’ll remain fully conscious throughout the procedure. However, to help you relax, a mild sedative can be provided. To ensure the procedure is painless, a spray may also be used to numb the throat.

An endoscope will be passed through the mouth, down the gullet and into the stomach. You won’t need to worry about any difficulty breathing as the tube isn’t inserted into the windpipe. As the tube travels down into your stomach, the doctor will be able to see everything thanks to a bright light and camera attached to the endoscope.

Gas will be pumped into the stomach, so you may feel a little bloated. A biopsy may also be taken if needed, before the endoscope is removed. It’s common for patients to be anxious prior to their appointment but knowing what to expect can help to ease your mind.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

— What can I expect after a gastroscopy?

After a gastroscopy, you may feel drowsy for a while if you have had anaesthetic. You will be taken to a recovery room until you are well enough to return home the same day. You will need someone to take you home and you may have difficulty eating a normal diet for a few days.

You can expect to receive your results within a few days.

— Are there any risks and complications?

Like any medical procedure, there are some small risks and complications to be aware of. These include a leak through the gullet, bleeding from the biopsy site, and damage to teeth and crowns. Most patients experience no issues from the procedure, but your consultant will go through the risks and complications with you.

— Is it painful?

No, a gastroscopy isn’t a painful procedure. Sedatives can be used to help you relax, alongside a throat anaesthetic.

To book a gastroscopy and get to the root of your digestive issues, contact Mr Alan Woodward today.

GASTROSCOPY

GASTROSCOPY

WHY WOULD YOU NEED IT?

GASTROSCOPY TREATMENT

GASTROSCOPY TREATMENT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For more information or to make an appointment,
contact 03000 204 734.

For more information or to make an appointment,
contact
03000 204 734.

CLINICS

GASTROSCOPY

GASTROSCOPY

WHY WOULD YOU NEED IT?

GASTROSCOPY TREATMENT

GASTROSCOPY TREATMENT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For more information or to make an appointment, contact 03000 204 734.

For more information or to make an appointment, contact 03000 204 734.

CLINICS

For more information or to make an appointment,
contact 03000 204 734.

For more information or to make an appointment,
contact
03000 204 734.