If your doctor has recommended a gastroscopy, you might be feeling nervous or unsure about what to expect. That’s completely normal. A gastroscopy, also known as an upper endoscopy, is a common, safe, and effective procedure used to examine the upper part of your digestive system — namely, the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
This guide is here to help you feel more confident and prepared, by answering common questions and walking you through what to do before, during, and after the procedure.
What is a Gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube called a gastroscope. This tube has a small camera at the end, allowing your gastroenterologist to view the lining of your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract in real-time. It’s commonly used to:
- Investigate symptoms like persistent indigestion, nausea, difficulty swallowing, or upper abdominal pain
- Check for ulcers, inflammation, tumours, or bleeding
- Take biopsies (small tissue samples)
- Treat certain conditions, such as stopping bleeding or removing polyps
The entire procedure typically lasts around 10 to 20 minutes.
Why Preparation Matters
Proper preparation is crucial for several reasons:
- It ensures a clear view of your upper digestive tract
- It reduces the risk of complications
- It helps the doctor diagnose or treat your condition accurately
- It makes your experience more comfortable and efficient
Now, let’s break down exactly what you need to do to prepare.
1. Before the Procedure: 24–48 Hours Ahead
Confirm Important Details
- Once your procedure is booked, make sure to:
- Confirm the appointment time and location with the clinic
- Ask whether you will be receiving sedation
- Clarify if you need to arrange transport, as you won’t be able to drive yourself home after sedation
Diet & Food Restrictions
Your gastroenterologist will usually give you specific instructions about eating and drinking before the procedure. In general:
- Stop eating solid food at least 6–8 hours before the procedure
- Clear liquids may be allowed up to 2–4 hours beforehand, but avoid anything with red or purple colouring, as it can resemble blood on camera
- Avoid alcohol, milk, and fizzy drinks
If your procedure is in the morning, you’ll likely be asked to fast overnight. For afternoon appointments, a light breakfast may be permitted — but follow your doctor’s specific instructions.
Medication Guidelines
Inform your doctor about all medications you’re currently taking, especially:
- Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel)
- Diabetes medications (e.g., insulin or tablets)
- Heart or blood pressure meds
Some of these may need to be adjusted or paused before the procedure to reduce bleeding risk or prevent complications while fasting.
Never stop a prescribed medication without your doctor’s guidance.
2. The Day of Your Gastroscopy
On the Morning Of…
- Don’t eat or drink anything if instructed to be nil by mouth
- Brush your teeth as normal (just don’t swallow water)
- Leave jewellery and valuables at home
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- If you’re receiving sedation, arrange for a friend or family member to accompany and drive you home
Arrival at the Clinic
At the clinic:
- You’ll check in at reception
- You may be asked to sign a consent form
- A nurse will review your medical history, take your vital signs, and explain the procedure
3. During the Procedure: What to Expect
Sedation Options
Most gastroscopies are done under light sedation or conscious sedation, which means you’ll be relaxed and drowsy but still breathing on your own. Some people opt for no sedation — especially if they’ve had the procedure before and know what to expect.
Sedation is typically administered through an IV line.
Throat Spray
Before the scope is inserted, your throat will be numbed with a local anaesthetic spray. This helps suppress your gag reflex.
A small mouthguard is placed to protect your teeth and the scope.
The Procedure Itself
- You’ll lie on your side (usually left)
- The doctor will gently guide the gastroscope through your mouth, down your oesophagus, and into your stomach and duodenum
- You might feel a bit of pressure or fullness — this is normal
- If a biopsy is needed, you won’t feel it
The whole process usually takes no more than 20 minutes.
4. After the Procedure: Recovery & Results
In the Recovery Area
If you were sedated, you’ll spend about 30–60 minutes resting in a recovery area. You may feel a little drowsy, bloated, or have a sore throat — these side effects are mild and usually resolve within a few hours.
You’ll be discharged once you’re alert and stable.
Going Home
- You must not drive, operate machinery, or make major decisions for 12–24 hours after sedation
- Arrange for someone to take you home and stay with you, just in case
Eating Afterward
- Start with clear fluids and progress to light meals
- Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, or caffeine for at least 24 hours
- If your throat is sore, try warm saltwater gargles or lozenges
When Will You Get the Results?
- If no sedation was used, your doctor may discuss the findings right after the procedure
- If sedation was used, results are often given during a follow-up appointment or shared via email/phone
- Biopsy results can take several days to a week
Your doctor will explain the findings and what the next steps are, if any — such as treatment, lifestyle changes, or further testing.
When to Call Your Doctor
Although complications are very rare, contact your doctor or clinic if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting (especially if it’s bloody)
- Fever or chills
- Difficulty breathing
- Trouble swallowing that worsens
These could be signs of a complication like bleeding or perforation — though, again, this is extremely uncommon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a gastroscopy painful?
No. Most patients report only mild discomfort or pressure. If you choose sedation, you’ll likely remember very little.
Can I go back to work the same day?
If you receive sedation, it’s best to take the rest of the day off and return to normal activities the following day.
What’s the difference between gastroscopy and endoscopy?
They’re often used interchangeably, but gastroscopy refers specifically to an upper GI endoscopy.
Is the procedure safe?
Yes. Gastroscopy is a low-risk, routine procedure performed thousands of times a day worldwide.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Stress, Prepare
A gastroscopy might sound intimidating, but it’s a quick, safe, and valuable tool for diagnosing and treating a range of digestive conditions. With proper preparation and the guidance of Dr. Preetha Thomas, you’ll be in excellent hands.