Gastroscopy (Endoscopy): Preparation and Procedure

Digestive health plays a huge role in our overall well-being, yet many of us tend to ignore persistent symptoms such as heartburn, stomach pain, indigestion, or unexplained nausea. These symptoms may seem minor, but sometimes they point toward underlying conditions that require careful diagnosis. One of the most reliable and advanced diagnostic tools in gastroenterology is gastroscopy, also known as upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. This procedure allows doctors to directly view the inside of your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum), giving them valuable insights that other imaging techniques cannot always provide.

For people in Pune and nearby areas, consulting a trusted gastroenterologist ensures you receive both expert care and guidance. Dr. Suresh Jain, a highly experienced Gastroenterologist in Pune, has helped countless patients understand and manage their digestive concerns through procedures like gastroscopy. Let’s take a closer look at what gastroscopy involves, how you should prepare for it, and what you can expect during the procedure.

What is Gastroscopy (Endoscopy)?

Gastroscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic test that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light at its tip, called an endoscope. This tube is gently inserted through the mouth and guided down into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The camera transmits real-time images to a screen, allowing the doctor to closely examine the inner lining for any abnormalities.

It is primarily used to investigate symptoms such as:

• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

• Chronic nausea and vomiting

• Stomach or upper abdominal pain

• Gastrointestinal bleeding

• Unexplained weight loss or anemia

Apart from diagnosing conditions like ulcers, inflammation, or tumors, gastroscopy also allows doctors to take biopsies (small tissue samples) if needed. This makes it an essential tool for detecting early stages of serious conditions, including cancer.

Why Gastroscopy is Important

Many digestive issues cannot be identified through blood tests or regular X-rays. Gastroscopy provides direct visualization, which makes it one of the most accurate diagnostic methods available. It helps detect:

• Gastric ulcers and erosions

• Barrett’s esophagus

• Esophageal varices

• Stomach or esophageal cancers

• Hiatal hernia

• Infections such as Helicobacter pylori

Timely diagnosis leads to early treatment, which can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications. That is why doctors like Dr. Suresh Jain emphasize the importance of not ignoring symptoms that persist or worsen.

How to Prepare for Gastroscopy

Preparation is an important part of the process to ensure the procedure goes smoothly and provides accurate results. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Fasting Before the Procedure
   You will need to avoid eating or drinking for at least 6–8 hours before the test. This ensures that the stomach is empty, allowing for clear visibility and reducing the risk of vomiting during the procedure.

2. Medications
   Inform your doctor about any medicines you are currently taking, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, or heart medicines. You may need to adjust dosages or stop certain medications temporarily.

3. Allergies & Medical History
   Always share details of allergies, especially to anesthesia, as well as any medical conditions such as heart disease or lung problems.

4. Arrange Transportation
   Since sedatives are usually given during gastroscopy, you might feel drowsy for a few hours afterward. It is best to arrange for someone to drive you home.

5. Pre-procedure Instructions
   Your gastroenterologist may give you additional instructions depending on your health condition. Following them carefully ensures safety and accuracy of the test.

The Gastroscopy Procedure

The procedure itself is generally quick and safe, usually lasting about 15–30 minutes. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Sedation and Numbing
   To make you comfortable, a local anesthetic spray is applied to numb the throat. You may also be given a sedative through an IV line, which helps you relax and reduces discomfort.

2. Insertion of the Endoscope
   The doctor gently guides the endoscope through your mouth into the esophagus and down into the stomach and duodenum.

3. Examination
   As the camera transmits live images, the doctor carefully examines the lining for inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, or any abnormal growths.

4. Biopsy (if needed)
   If something unusual is seen, tiny instruments can be passed through the endoscope to take a biopsy. This is painless and helps in further diagnosis.

5. Completion
   Once the examination is complete, the endoscope is slowly withdrawn.

Most patients recover quickly and are able to go home the same day. Mild throat discomfort or bloating may occur for a short time, but these usually resolve on their own.

After the Procedure

• You will be monitored until the sedative wears off.

• Eating and drinking can usually be resumed after a couple of hours unless instructed otherwise.

• The doctor will explain the findings and may schedule a follow-up visit to discuss biopsy results, if taken.

Gastroscopy is generally very safe, with minimal risks when performed by an experienced gastroenterologist. Rare complications like bleeding or perforation are extremely uncommon.

Doctor & Keyword Placement

For patients searching for reliable digestive care, Gastroscopy (Endoscopy) in Pune by Dr. Suresh Jain, Gastroenterologist in Pune, is a trusted choice for safe, accurate, and compassionate treatment.

FAQs about Gastroscopy

1. Is gastroscopy painful?
No, the procedure is not painful. You may feel slight discomfort or pressure, but sedatives and throat numbing spray make it very tolerable.

2. How long does it take to recover after gastroscopy?
Most people recover within a few hours. You may feel drowsy from the sedatives, so rest is recommended for the rest of the day.

3. Can I eat normally after a gastroscopy?
Yes, usually you can resume eating after a few hours once the numbness in your throat has worn off. Follow your doctor’s specific instructions.

4. Are there any risks with gastroscopy?
The risks are very minimal. Rarely, complications such as bleeding or infection may occur, especially if a biopsy or treatment is performed.

5. How soon will I get the results?
Preliminary findings are shared immediately after the test. If a biopsy is taken, results may take a few days.