Overview
In an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, a thin flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is passed through the mouth to examine the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. Small tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken, and some problems can be treated during the same test.
Why it is done
- Persistent heartburn, indigestion or upper abdominal pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Unexplained anaemia or weight loss
- To check for ulcers, inflammation or Helicobacter pylori infection
Before the test
You will be asked not to eat or drink for about six to eight hours so that your stomach is empty. Tell your doctor about any blood thinners or diabetes medicines.
During the test
A throat spray numbs the throat, and sedation may be given to help you relax. The test usually takes 10 to 20 minutes.
After the test
If you had sedation, you will need someone to take you home and should not drive for the rest of the day. A mild sore throat or bloating is common and settles quickly.
Risks
Upper endoscopy is very safe. Rare risks include bleeding, a tear in the lining of the gut and reactions to sedation.
At KIH
KIH's gastroenterology and medicine teams perform upper digestive-tract endoscopy in the hospital's endoscopy suite, and also offer therapeutic procedures such as variceal banding and dilatation.
This information is for general education. Your doctor will explain whether this treatment is suitable for you, and its benefits and risks. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
