Endoscopy

Overview

An endoscopy is a test that lets a doctor look inside your body using a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end. The tube is called an endoscope. The camera sends pictures to a screen, so the doctor can see the inside of your digestive tract or other areas without surgery.

Yes, endoscopy is a very common procedure used in hospitals and clinics around the world.

Anyone may need an endoscopy at some point — for example, to investigate long-lasting heartburn, stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, or unusual bleeding. It can be done in people of all ages, but it is most often used in adults.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Feeling very full after eating small amounts
• Unexplained bleeding from the digestive tract

Symptoms in children

• The same symptoms can happen in children, including stomach pain, poor feeding, or vomiting. A doctor will always consider the child’s age and overall health.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, symptoms may include anaemia (low iron), black or tarry stools, or a sudden change in bowel habits.

Causes

Main causes

• Acid reflux (where stomach acid travels back up into the throat)
• Stomach ulcers (sores on the lining of the stomach)
• Inflammation in the digestive tract
• Polyps (small, usually non-cancerous growths)
• Coeliac disease or other digestive conditions

Risk factors

• Being over 50
• Long-term heartburn
• Smoking or heavy alcohol use
• A family history of stomach or bowel problems
• Taking certain pain-relieving medicines regularly — ask your doctor about this

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Vomiting blood
• Passing black, tarry stools
• Trouble swallowing that is getting worse
• Unexplained weight loss

Book a routine appointment if:

• Mild but persistent heartburn or stomach ache
• A feeling of fullness that does not go away
• Anaemia without an obvious cause

Diagnosis

Your doctor will decide whether an endoscopy is needed based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. The endoscopy itself shows the inside of your digestive tract.

Tests that may be done

• Endoscopy — the main test with a camera
• Blood tests
• Stool tests
• Imaging scans like an X-ray or CT scan
• Biopsy (a tiny tissue sample taken during endoscopy for testing)

What to expect at your appointment

You will be asked not to eat for several hours beforehand. You may have a spray to numb your throat or a sedative to help you relax. The doctor will pass the tube gently through your mouth (for an upper endoscopy) and into your stomach. It usually takes 10 to 30 minutes. You will be monitored until you recover.

Treatment

Endoscopy is mainly used to diagnose. However, during the test, the doctor can also treat some problems — for example, stopping bleeding, removing polyps, or taking a small tissue sample for testing.

Self-care at home

• Rest for the rest of the day after the test.
• If you had a sedative, do not drive, drink alcohol, or operate machinery for 24 hours.
• Follow your doctor’s advice about eating and drinking afterwards.

Medical treatments

If the test finds a condition like acid reflux, an ulcer, or inflammation, your doctor may suggest medicines to reduce stomach acid, antibiotics for an infection, or other targeted treatments. Your doctor will explain the options that are right for you.

When is surgery considered?

If a serious condition such as cancer is found, treatment may involve surgery. Your specialist will discuss the exact treatment plan with you — you won’t be alone in making the decision.

Living with this condition

If you have a condition diagnosed by endoscopy, follow your doctor’s advice on medication, diet, and follow-up appointments. Many digestive problems can be managed well with the right plan.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
• Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
• Find ways to manage stress, like relaxation exercises.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can help. Gentle exercise like walking can also improve digestion. If you notice specific food triggers, keep a diary and share it with your doctor or a dietitian.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for test results or living with digestive symptoms can cause anxiety or low mood. It’s normal to feel worried. Talk to your doctor if you feel overwhelmed — they can point you to counselling or support groups.

Prevention

Endoscopy is a test, so it isn’t prevented. But some digestive problems that lead to endoscopy may be less likely if you keep a healthy lifestyle, eat well, and avoid smoking.

Screening programmes

Some people may be offered endoscopy as part of a screening programme if they have a higher risk of stomach or bowel cancer. Your doctor will tell you if this applies to you.

Complications

If left untreated

• Without checking, some conditions found by endoscopy could become more serious over time — for example, an ulcer that bleeds or a polyp that may turn into cancer.

Long-term outlook

For most people, endoscopy gives a clear answer and helps guide the right treatment. Even when a condition is serious, finding it early often provides more treatment options and better outcomes.

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