What Is A Gastroscopy? (And What To Expect)

We speak with Mr Lewis Gall, Consultant General and Upper GI Surgeon at Ross Hall Hospital in Glasgow, about what happens during a gastroscopy, as well as what a typical recovery period looks like. Links: For more information, please visit: https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/treatments/upper-gi-endoscopy-gastroscopy https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/specialities/gastroenterology To find a consultant near you, visit: https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/find-an-appointment Chapters: 00:19: What is a gastroscopy? 00:48: Why might you need a gastroscopy? 01:21: Can you eat before a gastroscopy? 01:51: What happens during a gastroscopy? 03:59: Is the procedure painful? 04:21: Do you have general anaesthetic with the procedure? 04:57: What are the risks? 06:20: How long does it take? 06:30: Can a gastroscopy check for cancer? 07:07: What is the recovery period like? 08:20: What are the next steps for treatment? What is a gastroscopy? A gastroscopy, also known as an upper GI (gastrointestinal tract) endoscopy or OGD (Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy), is a procedure to look inside your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine. During a gastroscopy, your consultant will insert a small, flexible tube with a camera and light attached to it, called an endoscope, into your intestine through your mouth. This endoscope is connected to a monitor that your consultant can refer to as they perform the procedure. A gastroscopy can help diagnose many conditions that affect your stomach, including stomach ulcers, a blockage in your oesophagus, or non-cancerous growths. Why might you need a gastroscopy? A gastroscopy is a highly effective way of investigating a broad range of stomach problems. You might benefit from a gastroscopy if you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms: • Persistent heartburn and indigestion  • Persistent bloating  • Persistent stomach pain  • Persistent nausea  • Difficulties swallowing (this is also known as dysphagia)  • Abnormal bleeding  • Low levels of iron in your blood (also known as iron deficiency anaemia)  • Unexplained weight loss  How long do you have to fast before a gastroscopy? You must not eat or drink anything for at least six hours before having a gastroscopy, but you can take small sips of water for up to two hours before your appointment.  Consultant details: Mr Lewis Gall is a consultant general and upper GI surgeon at Ross Hall Hospital in Glasgow. Learn more about his expertise: https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/consultants/lewis-gall Learn more about Ross Hall Hospital: https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/hospitals/ross-hall-hospital If you have any of the symptoms outlined in this video, seek professional medical help as soon as possible. Leave a comment below and we will plan future videos on your suggested topics. #gastroscopy #stomachproblems #stomachulcer