Gastroscopy

What is a Gastroscopy?

A gastroscopy is a diagnostic procedure. It allows specialist gastroenterologists to examine the inside of your upper digestive system – including your throat, stomach and the first part of your small intestine – using a thin, flexible camera called a gastroscope. 

If you're experiencing persistent heartburn, unexplained nausea, difficulty swallowing, or upper abdominal pain, a gastroscopy can provide clear answers about what's causing your symptoms. 

Our experienced consultants typically recommend gastroscopy when you experience:

• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux despite medication
• A feeling of food sticking in your throat, or difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
• Iron deficiency anaemia with no apparent cause
• Family history of upper digestive tract cancers
• Suspected stomach ulcers
• Need to monitor previously diagnosed conditions like Barrett's oesophagus

Digestive diseases of the gut, liver and pancreas account for 1 in 8 deaths in the UK – yet research from charity Guts UK found 58% of people feel too embarrassed to talk about their digestive conditions or symptoms, and 52% of people put off seeking advice for their symptoms for over six months.

Our gastroenterologists perform hundreds of procedures annually, using the latest endoscopic equipment for high-quality imaging. We can offer same-day appointments in Leeds and Sheffield for urgent concerns, with flexible sedation options to suit you. Most findings are discussed immediately, with biopsy results within 10 days.

How a Gastroscopy Works

Our consultant uses a narrow, flexible endoscope with a high-definition camera during your procedure. This state-of-the-art device, no wider than a pencil, is gently guided through your mouth and throat, allowing real-time visualisation of your upper digestive tract on a monitor.

If necessary, the consultant can also:

• Take tissue samples (biopsies) for detailed laboratory analysis
• Treat bleeding ulcers
• Stretch narrowed areas (strictures)

We understand that having a camera inserted through your mouth can feel daunting. At LivingCare, your comfort is our priority, which is why we offer flexible sedation options:

Sedation Choices:

Throat Spray Only: Local anaesthetic spray that numbs your throat, allowing you to remain fully alert throughout the procedure. You can drive yourself home afterwards.

Conscious Sedation Injection: A mild sedative is given through a small injection in your hand or arm, helping you feel relaxed and drowsy while remaining conscious. 

Most patients find the procedure more comfortable than expected, and our experienced team will discuss which option is best for you during your consultation.

What to Expect When Receiving a Gastroscopy

Before Your Appointment

You will need to fast for 6 hours, and only drink clear fluids until 2 hours before your appointment. You can continue to take essential medications unless specifically advised otherwise.Bring the names of any medications you take, and details of your medical history. If choosing sedation, arrange for someone to collect you (you cannot drive for 24 hours).

During Your Appointment

Your gastroscopy will typically last 15-20 minutes. Here's what happens:

1. Our nursing team will welcome you and ensure you're comfortable
2. If you've chosen sedation, this will be administered through a small tube in your hand
3. Throat spray will be applied to numb the area
4. An endoscope is inserted through your mouth very gently
5. You may experience slight gagging initially, but this settles quickly
6. Air is introduced to allow clear visualisation (may cause mild bloating)
7. Any necessary procedures (biopsies, treatments) are performed

After the appointment

If you received sedation, you’ll stay in our comfortable recovery area while the effects wear off (typically 30-60 minutes). Someone must collect you to take you home – you cannot drive for 24 hours. Additionally, you will need to avoid alcohol for 24 hours and take it easy for the rest of the day. 

Risks and Complications of a Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is known to be one of the safest medical procedures. However, we believe in complete transparency about potential risks. There are infrequent complications (less than 1 in 10,000 cases) that can include a reaction to sedation, minor bleeding following biopsy, perforation, or infection. Our consultants' expertise and advanced equipment significantly minimise these already minimal risks.

How to recover following a Gastroscopy

• Throat recovery: Allow 30-45 minutes for sensation in the throat to return
• First fluids: Start with small sips of water when swallowing feels normal
• Eating: Resume regular diet once comfortable swallowing

References

1. British Society of Gastroenterology. (2024). Gastroscopy Guidelines and Patient Information.
2. NHS (2024). Upper Endoscopy (Gastroscopy)
3. Royal College of Surgeons. (2024). Endoscopy Safety Guidelines.