Question 1

Before your Gastroscopy

Accepted Answer

Before we go ahead with your Endoscopy, you will need to have a formal consultation with a consultant Gastroenterologist. During this time, you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.

Question 2

Preparing for your Gastroscopy

Accepted Answer

We try to make your Gastroscopy experience as easy and relaxed as possible. Here is a brief explanation of what you could expect:   If you take insulin or blood thinning drugs, you will need special advice on how to prepare for the test.  You should not eat or drink anything for six hours before your appointment. This is to make sure your stomach is empty so the endoscopist can have a clear view of your stomach. This includes boiled sweets and chewing gum. It is unsafe to perform a procedure if the stomach is not empty. For patients on warfarin, you will need to have an INR blood test 48 hours before your appointment. Please arrange this with your own GP and bring the results with you. The test cannot go ahead without this result. You will be told which medication you must not take. Other usual tablets may be taken with a small sip of water. Before the procedure the health team will carry out a number of checks and you will be asked to sign a consent form.

Question 3

Having your Gastroscopy

Accepted Answer

A Gastroscopy takes approximately 5 minutes. It may feel uncomfortable, but shouldn't be painful.   Most people have the test with a local anaesthetic throat spray to numb the throat and allow the scope to pass comfortably. If medically appropriate, the endoscopist may offer you a sedative to help you relax. If you decide to have a sedative this will be given through a needle in your arm or the back of your hand.  ​ The local anaesthetic is sprayed onto your throat and you will be asked to swallow it. It can taste unpleasant. You will be asked to lay on your left side and place a mouthpiece into your mouth. Your oxygen levels and pulse will be monitored by a small clip on your finger, and you may have some additional oxygen through small tubes in your nose. ​ The endoscopist will place the gastroscope down your throat. A swallow can help ease the endoscope down your oesophagus into your stomach. The endoscopist will be able to look into your duodenum and take small pieces of tissue if required (biopsies) or photographs. You may feel bloated after the test. ​ Our experienced and caring medical staff will be there to help and support you every step of the way.

Question 4

Still have questions about your procedure?

Accepted Answer

Visit our page www.livingcare.co.uk/endoscopy for a full FAQ and walkthrough video regarding Endoscopy procedures