If you are dealing with difficulty swallowing, heartburn, or persistent stomach pain, you might need a gastroscopy. This procedure will help your doctors see what is happening inside your upper digestive tract, providing the information for diagnosis and treatment. Let’s explore what gastroscopy is all about and what you can expect if you need one.
What is a Gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy (also called an upper endoscopy) is the procedure where doctors examine the lining of your esophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the first part of your small intestine. The doctor uses an endoscope or a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera at the end. This tube is gently passed through your mouth and down your throat, giving the doctor a clear view of these areas.
Why Would I Need a Gastroscopy?
Here are some reasons why a doctor might recommend this procedure:
- To find the cause of stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing
- To diagnose conditions like stomach ulcers, inflammation, or celiac disease
- To check for early signs of cancer
- To treat problems like bleeding ulcers or remove small growths
In gastroscopy Singapore clinics, the procedure is generally performed to look into several digestive issues. Singapore’s modern healthcare facilities make sure that patients receive extensive care throughout the process.
Before Your Gastroscopy
Preparation for a gastroscopy is straightforward:
- You’ll need to stop eating and drinking 6-8 hours before the procedure
- Tell your doctor about any medications you take, especially blood thinners
- Arrange for someone to take you home afterward, as you may receive sedation
- Remove any loose dentures before the procedure begins
Gastroscopy Singapore specialists provide detailed instructions according to your specific needs to ensure the procedure goes smoothly.
During the Procedure
A typical gastroscopy takes about 15-30 minutes:
- You’ll receive a throat spray to numb your throat
- You may be given a sedative to help you relax
- You’ll lie on your side while the doctor gently inserts the endoscope
- The camera sends images to a screen, allowing the doctor to examine your digestive tract
- If needed, the doctor may take small tissue samples for testing
Medical professionals at gastroscopy Singapore centers prioritize patient comfort, and many people are surprised by how manageable the experience is.
After Your Gastroscopy
After the procedure, you must rest for about 30-60 minutes as the sedation wears off. You may feel your throat slightly sore for a day or two, but you should probably eat and drink normally once your gag reflex comes back. Expect your doctor to discuss the initial findings with you.
The Singapore Advantage
When undergoing gastroscopy, patients benefit from:
- Highly qualified gastroenterologists with extensive experience
- State-of-the-art equipment and facilities
- Comprehensive care from diagnosis through treatment
- Clear communication about findings and next steps
Is Gastroscopy Safe?
Gastroscopy is very safe. Serious complications are rare. However, like any medical procedure, it carries slight risks such as bleeding, infection, or reaction to sedation. The skilled specialists performing gastroscopy – wide are well-trained to minimize these risks.
When to Seek Help
While recovery is usually quick and uneventful, contact your doctor if you experience:
- Severe throat pain or difficulty swallowing that doesn’t improve
- Chest or abdominal pain
- Fever or chills
- Vomiting, especially if it contains blood
A gastroscopy may sound terrifying, but that helps doctors provide you with the best possible care. With the excellent medical standards maintained in gastroscopy Singapore facilities, you can approach this procedure with confidence, knowing you’re in good hands.