Gastroscopy

A gastroscopy is performed if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Chronic nausea or vomiting and heartburn
• Abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplainable weight loss
• Signs of a peptic ulcer (tar-like stool, spots of blood in the vomit, dizziness and sharp abdominal pain).

How do you perform a gastroscopy?

An anaesthetic spray is used to numb the mouth and throat so you will not experience any pain when the gastroscope is passed down the throat. A protective ring/tube is inserted between the teeth so your mouth doesn’t close and you avoid biting down on the scope. You will be asked to swallow so the gastroscope moves easily down the food pipe. Then, with utmost care and precision, the scope is navigated down the stomach into the duodenum. The images highlight areas in the lining of the stomach, duodenum, and food pipe that require attention, such as inflammation and redness in the region. Additional issues such as restricted passages, stomach ulcers, bleeding and varicose veins appear on screen as well.

Dr Chiliza may also decide to remove tissue samples for biopsy. This is a standard procedure to investigate any abnormalities found during the gastroscopy further. For example, tiny pincers are placed through the gastroscope tube to extract tissue samples. He may also use the gastroscope to suction out fluids and air. Restricted passageways and bleeding are addressed at the same time.

What is recovery like?

Due to the effects of the anaesthetic, you can anticipate voice hoarseness and a numb sensation in the throat. However, these effects are temporary and should subside over time, allowing you to recover comfortably.