Gastroscopy is an important procedure for diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal issues. It is used to examine the upper digestive system, including the stomach, esophagus, and small intestine.
During the test, a gastroscope is inserted into the mouth and down the throat. The gastroscope is a thin, flexible tube with a small camera on the end. This camera can take images and help the doctor diagnose the cause of any problems.
The gastroscope is a valuable tool for diagnosing many different issues. It can help detect ulcers, inflammation, tumors, and abnormal growths. It can also help identify bleeding in the stomach or esophagus.
Gastroscopy can also identify the cause of acid reflux and other symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Gastroscopy is also used to diagnose and treat Barrett’s esophagus, which is a precancerous condition.
When is Gastroscopy Recommended?
A gastroscopy is a procedure that is used to look inside the oesophagus, stomach and the duodenum. This procedure is not only used to diagnose gastrointestinal conditions, but it can also be used to treat certain conditions.
A gastroscopy can help diagnose many different stomach and intestinal conditions such as:
- Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) – This condition is caused when stomach acid flows back up the food pipe and causes irritation in the lining of the esophagus.
- Gastritis – This is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach.
- Ulcers – These are open sores on the lining of the stomach.
- Cancer – A gastroscopy can help diagnose cancer in the stomach and intestines.
A gastroscopy is also used to look for the cause of other symptoms such as:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
When these symptoms are present, your doctor may recommend a gastroscopy to help diagnose the condition. In some cases, a gastroscopy may be recommended as part of a routine checkup.
This is especially true if you are at an increased risk of developing stomach or intestinal cancer, such as those who have a family history of these types of cancers. You may also be recommended a gastroscopy if your doctor suspects that you may have an underlying medical condition that is causing your symptoms.
A gastroscopy is a safe and effective procedure that can help your doctor diagnose and treat many different conditions. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to talk to your doctor about whether a gastroscopy is recommended for you.
What to Expect During a Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy is a safe and relatively painless procedure. You may experience some discomfort while the tube is being inserted, but this should pass quickly. After the gastroscope is inserted, the doctor will be able to examine the inside of your stomach, esophagus, and small intestine.
The doctor will look for any inflammation, ulcers, masses, or other abnormalities. If further testing is needed, the doctor may take tissue samples for biopsy. Gastroscopy is an important and powerful tool for diagnosing and treating digestive issues.
The gastroscopy procedure usually takes between 10-20 minutes. After the procedure, you will be monitored for a few hours to ensure that you have recovered from the sedative.
It is a safe and relatively painless procedure that can help doctors identify the cause of many problems in the upper digestive system, including ulcers, inflammation, tumors, and abnormal growths. If you are experiencing any issues with your digestive system, talk to your doctor about whether a gastroscopy is right for you.
