The procedure that involves the investigation to find out about the disorders of the esophagus, the duodenum, and the stomach is known as gastroscopy. The apparatus that a doctor utilizes in performing the analysis is a flexible instrument that contains a miniature camera at one end is called as Gastroscope. It provides a direct view of the lining. The doctor can examine the samples using a microscope or tested in the laboratory. The analytical procedure helps in establishing an accurate diagnosis.
When To Attend A Gastroscopy?
Only a family doctor can provide you the answer to the question. However, the following indications will be helpful to consult the doctor and seek gastroscopy:
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Black bowel motions
- Persistent vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Indigestion
- Recovering heartburn
- Anemia
- Pain in the chest region not caused due to heart disease
- Suspicious of infection of the stomach.
Before the Test
Before conducting the test, the doctor will ask you about your health condition. Conversing openly about your health is essential, as it helps the doctor to prepare you for the test. Certain conditions increase the risk of gastroscopy, which includes:
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Allergy to medication
- History of past surgery or surgeries
- Use of medicines such as warfarin, insulin, and lithium
- Bleeding disorders
Apart from this, the doctor will also instruct you to change the diet to clear the stomach, which helps him or her to have a clear view esophagus. You will keep your stomach empty for at least 8 hours before the examination.
What Happens At The Testing Facility?
On the day of the examination, after you arrive at the testing facility, the doctor will once again explain the procedure along with the possible risks that you can experience. You can undergo the examination with or without sedation. However, the most people opt for sedation, as it helps in reducing gagging and pain. Although you will feel drowsy during the procedure, you will remain conscious. However, you will fail to recollect the event because of the sedation. The effect of the sedation stays for at least a day.
As you will be opting for sedation, it is preferable to bring a companion who will help you drive back home. You have to rest for a complete day and avoid public transport, getting back to work, and operate missionary.
The doctor passes the flexible tube through the mouth. The procedure is uncomfortable, but does not cause any pain. As the doctor moves the tube, doctor will analyze the lining of the esophagus, and if required, collects samples to test for the presence of infection. The doctor looks for the presence of bacteria known as Helicobacter pylori, which is the reason behind the cause of stomach ulcers.
After completing the procedure, you will remain in the recovery period until the sedation wears off. You can eat and drink soft foods after sedation wears off.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Gastroscopy?
While the test requires only 15 minutes, you have to stay in the recovery room for at least two hours. The time can vary slightly from one person to another because of the sedation, age, and overall health. You may not gain complete consciousness immediately after the recovery period. Because of this, doctors suggest patients arrive at the testing facility with a companion. They also instruct the patient to take a day’s rest. The patient gets back to the regular life after the rest period. They can continue with their healthy life and diet along with other treatments.
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