Department
Endoscopy
A short camera test that shows exactly what is causing acidity, pain or bleeding in the digestive tract — so treatment is not guesswork.
What is endoscopy?
In an upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy) a thin flexible tube with a camera is passed through the mouth to look at the food pipe, stomach and first part of the small intestine. The doctor can see ulcers, inflammation, bleeding and growths, take small tissue samples for testing and, in some cases, treat the problem during the same test.
Who it is for
People with long-lasting acidity or upper stomach pain, difficulty or pain while swallowing, repeated vomiting, vomiting blood or black stools, or unexplained anaemia or weight loss.
Conditions we see
- Persistent acidity and indigestion
- Stomach and duodenal ulcers
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Unexplained anaemia or weight loss
Procedures and tests
- Upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy)
- Biopsy during endoscopy
What to expect
- 01
Do not eat for about 6–8 hours before the test (the hospital will tell you the exact time).
- 02
A throat spray or light sedation; the test itself usually takes 10–20 minutes.
- 03
You rest briefly afterwards and go home the same day. If you had sedation, bring someone to accompany you.
Patient guide
Upper GI Endoscopy: Why It's Done and How to Prepare
An upper GI endoscopy is a short camera test of the food pipe, stomach and duodenum. It finds the cause of symptoms such as persistent acidity, pain, bleeding or swallowing trouble.
Read the guideYour consultant
General & Laparoscopic Surgeon
FAQ
Questions patients ask
Why is an endoscopy done?
To see the cause of long-lasting acidity or stomach pain, swallowing trouble, vomiting blood, black stools, or unexplained anaemia or weight loss — so treatment is based on what is actually there rather than a guess.
Is endoscopy painful?
Most people find it uncomfortable rather than painful. A numbing throat spray and, if needed, light sedation help.
Do I need to fast?
Yes — usually nothing to eat for about 6–8 hours before. The hospital will tell you about water and your regular medicines, especially diabetes and blood-thinning medicines.
When will I get the results?
The doctor can usually tell you what was seen straight after the test. Biopsy results take longer and are explained at follow-up.
Can I drive after endoscopy?
Not if you have been given sedation. Arrange for someone to take you home.
Related
Related departments
Next step
Book a Endoscopy consultation
Tell us your preferred day; the hospital will confirm a time with you.