What is Endoscopy?

11th, Aug 2017

More commonly known as a “camera test”, an endoscopy is a procedure which involves inserting an endoscope (a thin, long, flexible tube with camera) into the body through the mouth or rectum to allow visual examination of the gastrointestinal tract. It is used to detect conditions such as stomach cancer, hernia, inflammation of the lining of the stomach, gastric ulcers and damage caused by acid reflux.

Symptoms that may require an Endoscopy investigation include:

Difficulty swallowing
Persistent abdominal pain
Chest pain not caused by heart-related conditions
Persistent nausea and vomiting
Unexplained weight loss
Vomiting blood
Persistent diarrhoea
Blood in stool

Very often we may ignore some of the symptoms listed above and simply put it down to “bad indigestion” or “something we ate”. However, if you are experiencing any of the above you should make an appointment to see your GP.

Bowel cancer is the 3^rd most common type of cancer in males in the UK. Meanwhile oesophageal cancer is the 4^th most common cause of cancer deaths in males in the UK*.

Types of Endoscopy investigations

There are various types of Endoscopy investigation available such as:

OGD used to investigate the stomach and the first part of your small intestine
Colonoscopy to look directly at the lining of the large intestine (the colon) and take a biopsy for later analysis if necessary.

An endoscopy is a very safe procedure that usually only takes from 10-30 minutes with a 30-40-minute recovery period after this. A GP referral is required to have an initial endoscopy consultation so it is best to speak to your GP as soon as possible should you experience any of the symptoms above.

Unfortunately, though, even if you have already been to see your GP for a referral, you may still need to wait weeks for an investigation. We understand that during this time you may be worried or anxious. However, you don’t have to wait. At Kingsbridge Private Hospital we have no waiting times and we can book your appointment at a time that is convenient to you.

For more information on having your endoscopy at Kingsbridge Private Hospital please contact us on 02890 667878.

*Source – Cancer Research UK