Gastroscopy: upper digestive endoscopy
Understand what the test examines, which preparation instructions to request and what to watch for afterwards.
Which area is examined?
Here, endoscopy refers to upper digestive examination, called gastroscopy. A thin flexible camera examines the oesophagus, stomach and beginning of the small intestine. It may help assess swallowing difficulty, persistent digestive symptoms or bleeding.
Clarify these before the test
- Get written instructions from the procedure team on when to stop food and fluids; do not set fasting times from this page.
- Share all health information, including blood thinners, diabetes medicines, supplements, allergies and possible pregnancy. Do not stop medicines yourself.
- If sedation is planned, arrange the journey home and someone to accompany you in advance.
During the procedure
Throat-numbing spray and/or sedation are chosen according to your situation. Small tissue samples or appropriate treatments may be performed if needed. A biopsy alone does not mean cancer was found; samples help distinguish different conditions.
Going home and results
The team monitors recovery and gives instructions on eating, drinking, medicines and activities. Do not drive after sedation; ask when driving can safely resume. Visual findings and biopsy results may not be available together; confirm who will explain results and when.
Risks and symptoms that should not wait
Complications can include bleeding, a tear in the digestive wall or breathing/heart problems related to sedation; discuss risks beforehand. Afterwards, worsening abdominal or chest pain, bloody vomit, black stools, fever or worsening difficulty swallowing need immediate medical assessment. Call 112 for breathing difficulty.
Information sources
These sources support general information; they do not confirm our hospital’s services or clinical approval.
This information is general and does not replace individual diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your own situation with your healthcare team.
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