However, if the unpleasant sensations recur regularly, it is important not only to relieve the symptoms but also to understand their cause. Some diseases of the stomach and esophagus can develop almost unnoticed for a long time and eventually lead to complications.
Gastroscopy (EGD/UGIE) is one of the most informative diagnostic procedures for the stomach and esophagus. During the examination, the physician can assess the condition of the mucosa, detect gastritis, ulcers, erosions, inflammation, signs of reflux, and other gastrointestinal diseases at an early stage. Let us look at which symptoms make gastroscopy truly urgent.
What Symptoms Indicate the Need for a Gastroscopy
Many patients believe that gastroscopy is only performed in cases of severe pain. In reality, the indication for the procedure may be symptoms that a person has long attributed to stress, poor diet, or chronic gastritis.
You should consult a gastroenterologist and have your stomach examined if you experience:
- persistent heartburn.
- heaviness after eating.
- a feeling that food is “sitting” in the stomach.
- pain or burning in the upper abdomen.
- nausea after eating.
- frequent belching.
- bloating.
- acid or bitter taste in the mouth.
- bad breath.
- decreased appetite.
- sensation of a lump in the throat.
- discomfort when swallowing.
When Gastroscopy Cannot Be Postponed
Sometimes gastrointestinal problems manifest only as occasional discomfort for a long time. However, there are symptoms that require prompt medical attention and examination.
Warning signs include:
- blood in vomit.
- black stool.
- sudden unexplained weight loss.
- difficulty swallowing.
- persistent vomiting.
- severe weakness and anemia.
- intense stomach pain.
What Gastroscopy Reveals
During gastroscopy, the physician examines the upper gastrointestinal tract using a thin endoscope with a camera. The examination allows for a detailed assessment of the mucosal condition and detection of changes that cannot be seen on an ultrasound.
Gastroscopy can detect:
- gastritis.
- gastric and duodenal ulcers.
- erosions.
- polyps.
- esophageal inflammation.
- signs of GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).
- Helicobacter pylori infection.
- neoplasms.
If necessary, during EGD the physician may collect tissue samples for analysis or perform additional diagnostic procedures.
Can Gastroscopy Be Replaced by Other Tests
Patients often ask whether they can avoid gastroscopy and replace it with an ultrasound or laboratory tests.
Ultrasound, CT scans, and laboratory tests help assess the general condition of the gastrointestinal organs but do not allow for a detailed view of the esophageal and gastric mucosa. This is why gastroscopy remains one of the most accurate diagnostic methods for diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract.
When a physician recommends EGD, it is usually because an accurate diagnosis is needed and serious diseases must be ruled out.
Is Gastroscopy Painful
Many patients postpone the procedure precisely out of fear of discomfort. Modern techniques, however, allow gastroscopy to be performed far more comfortably than before.
At SILK Medical, gastroscopy can be performed during sleep — using conscious sedation. This is not general anesthesia but a state of calm, light sleep during which the patient is relaxed, experiences no discomfort, and has no recollection of the procedure.
After the examination, patients generally wake up quickly and feel well. Conscious sedation helps reduce anxiety and makes gastroscopy as comfortable as possible, especially for patients with a pronounced gag reflex or fear of the procedure.
At SILK Medical, we understand that many patients delay the examination precisely because of fear and unpleasant expectations. That is why we pay special attention not only to diagnostic accuracy but also to patient comfort: a calm atmosphere, a gentle approach, and attentive care help make the procedure as stress-free as possible.
How to Prepare for Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy is typically performed on an empty stomach. It is recommended to refrain from eating for 8–10 hours before the procedure; the patient receives precise instructions from the physician in advance.
Before the examination, it is important to inform the specialist about any medications being taken, chronic conditions, and allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gastroscopy
Can I drink water before gastroscopy?
A small amount of water is usually permitted a few hours before the procedure, but precise recommendations depend on the scheduled time of the examination.
How long does gastroscopy take?
The examination typically takes 5–10 minutes.
Can gastritis be detected without gastroscopy?
The disease may be suspected based on symptoms and test results, but an accurate assessment of the gastric mucosa requires gastroscopy.
When to Schedule an Examination
Recurring heartburn, heaviness after eating, nausea, or stomach discomfort are symptoms that should not be ignored. Timely diagnosis helps detect gastrointestinal diseases at an early stage and prevent complications.
At SILK Medical, gastroscopy can be performed in a calm and comfortable setting, including examination during sleep with conscious sedation.
The clinic currently offers a special promotion:
- gastroscopy — 180 GEL instead of
250 GEL. - gastroscopy “during sleep” — 225 GEL instead of
315 GEL.
