Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (often abbreviated as gastroscopy) is one of the most modern and popular examination methods to examine the upper part of the digestive system. This is a technique of inserting a flexible endoscope, equipped with a camera and light, through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). Thanks to the direct image, the doctor can clearly observe the mucosa, detect abnormalities early and even intervene in treatment during the endoscopy.
Why is a gastroscopy needed?
The upper digestive system includes the esophagus, stomach and duodenum – where food is received, crushed and digested. When these organs have problems, the body will send warning signals such as:
- Belching, heartburn, reflux lengthen
- epigastric pain (above the navel, below the sternum)
- Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss
- Black stools, vomiting blood (signs of gastrointestinal bleeding)
- Difficulty swallowing, pain when swallowing
These symptoms may be a sign of:
- Gastric and duodenal ulcers
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Esophagitis
- Polyps, benign or malignant tumors (early cancer)
- HP (Helicobacter pylori) infection – the main cause of ulcers and increased risk of stomach cancer
Endoscopy helps early detection, thereby treating promptly, avoiding dangerous complications such as stomach perforation, severe bleeding or progressive cancer.
How does the endoscopy procedure work?
- Preparation before endoscopy
- Fasting at least 6–8 hours to empty stomach
- The doctor may inject a light anesthetic (anesthesia endoscopy) or numb the throat area with local anesthesia (conventional endoscopy).
- Inform your doctor if you are taking blood thinners, diabetes, or have any drug allergies.
- During endoscopy (5–10 minutes)
- You lie on your left side, the doctor inserts the endoscope through your mouth.
- Air is gently pumped in to inflate the stomach, allowing for better visualization.
- The doctor can biopsy (take a small sample) to test for HP or abnormal cells.
- If small polyps are found, they can be removed. cut off immediately (interventional endoscopy).
- After endoscopy
- Rest for 30–60 minutes if anesthetized.
- May cause some bloating, mild sore throat – usually clears up in 1–2 days.
- Imaging results are available immediately, biopsy results are available in 3–5 days.
Is endoscopy painful? Is it safe?
- Endoscopy under anesthesia: You sleep lightly, feel nothing, wake up as if you just had a nap. This is a popular choice today.
- Conventional endoscopy:May be slightly uncomfortable, mildly nauseated, but bearable for a few minutes.
- Safe: Complications are very rare (<0.2%), mainly minor bleeding during biopsy or perforation (extremely rare if done correctly).
Who should have a gastroscopy?
- The person above 40 years old, especially at high risk (smoking, drinking alcohol, family history of stomach cancer).
- People have digestive symptoms lasting >2 weeks despite taking medication.
- Infected people HP bacteria (positive breath, stool, blood tests).
- Follow up regularly if ever gastric ulcer, polypectomy, Barrett's esophagus.
Outstanding benefits of endoscopy
- Accurate diagnosis 95–98% upper digestive diseases
- Early detection of cancer – 5-year survival rate >90% if treated promptly.
- Local treatment: Hemostasis, polypectomy, esophageal dilation.
- No surgery required, leaving no scars.
Advice from doctors
- Don't be subjective. with “minor” symptoms such as heartburn, bloating.
- Choose a reputable medical facility, has experienced endoscopists and modern equipment.
- Combining endoscopy with HP testing for radical treatment.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eat cooked food and drink boiled water, reduce spicy foods, quit smoking, and limit alcohol.
Gastroscopy is not just a test – it is golden key to protect the digestive system and detect dangerous diseases early. Just 10 minutes of discomfort can be exchanged for decades of healthy life. Listen to your body and proactively seek medical attention when needed!
