A gastroscopy examines the throat, food pipe (oesophagus) and stomach
It's also called an endoscopy or OGD (oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy)
A thin, flexible camera-tipped tube is passed through the mouth to look inside
It can also take tissue samples or treat certain conditions during the same procedure
The test itself usually only takes a few minutes
About Gastroscopy
A gastroscopy is a test used to look inside the throat, food pipe (oesophagus), stomach and the start of the small intestine — together known as the upper digestive system. It's sometimes called an endoscopy, or OGD (oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy), and can help identify the cause of symptoms such as swallowing difficulties, persistent indigestion, reflux, nausea, or unexplained bleeding.
A long, thin, flexible tube with a small camera at the end is passed through the mouth, down the throat, and into the stomach, giving a direct, detailed view that's often clearer than an X-ray for spotting problems such as ulcers. As well as diagnosing conditions, a gastroscopy can be used to take a tissue sample (biopsy) or to treat certain conditions, such as stomach ulcers, during the same visit.
Page last reviewed: 6 March 2024 · Next review due: 6 March 2027
Gastroscopy · Preparation
Preparing for a Gastroscopy
? 3 min readReviewed: March 2024
Getting Ready
You'll usually need to stop eating for at least 6 hours before the test, though small sips of water may be allowed — your appointment letter will give you the specific details. Bring along information about any medicines you take, and follow any instructions given about whether to take them as usual beforehand.
A nurse will talk you through what to expect and ask some questions about your health. You'll usually be offered a throat spray to numb the area, sedation to help you relax, or both — if you have sedation, you won't be able to drive for 24 hours afterwards, so you'll need to arrange for someone to take you home and, in some cases, stay with you.
Page last reviewed: 6 March 2024 · Next review due: 6 March 2027
Gastroscopy · Procedure
What Happens During the Test
? 4 min readReviewed: March 2024
During the Test
You'll usually lie comfortably on your side, and a small mouthguard is placed gently between your teeth to protect them and keep your mouth open. The endoscopist then guides the thin camera through your mouth and down into your stomach — this shouldn't be painful and won't interfere with your breathing, though it can feel a little strange.
A small amount of air is passed through the tube to gently open up the stomach, giving a clearer view, which can cause some temporary bloating or discomfort. If needed, a small tissue sample can be taken painlessly using tiny instruments passed through the tube. The whole procedure usually takes only a few minutes, and the camera is removed quickly once the examination is complete.
Page last reviewed: 6 March 2024 · Next review due: 6 March 2027
Gastroscopy · Risks
Risks of a Gastroscopy
? 3 min readReviewed: March 2024
How Safe Is It?
A gastroscopy is generally a safe, straightforward procedure, and serious complications are uncommon. Afterwards, some people notice mild bloating or a sore throat for the rest of the day, which usually settles with normal painkillers such as paracetamol if needed.
Rare but more serious risks include bleeding, particularly if a biopsy was taken, or, very occasionally, damage to the lining of the oesophagus or stomach, which may need further treatment. There's also a small risk of damage to loose or dental work if you bite down on the mouthguard, so it's worth mentioning any concerns about your teeth beforehand. If sedation is used, some people experience short-term memory loss or grogginess afterwards, which is why a companion and 24 hours off driving are recommended.
Page last reviewed: 6 March 2024 · Next review due: 6 March 2027
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