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Gastroscopy

Why it’s done

Open all pages about Gastroscopy

A gastroscopy might be done if you have symptoms such as problems swallowing, indigestion that does not get better, or there’s blood in your poo.

You should not eat for at least 6 hours before a gastroscopy. It's important that your stomach is empty during the test.

During a gastroscopy, a camera is put down your throat and into your stomach. You can ask for medicine to numb your throat and make you more relaxed.

You might have stomach pain after a gastroscopy. This should pass in a few hours. Call 111 if your pain gets worse or you vomit blood.

Some of the results of your gastroscopy will be explained to you before you go home. You may need to wait a few weeks for the full results.

Page last reviewed: 07/04/2022
Next review due: 07/04/2025