Gastroscopy and colonoscopy are both types of endoscopy. A thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end helps the doctor see inside your body to investigate symptoms and reach a diagnosis.
What’s the difference between the two tests?
A gastroscopy looks inside your gullet, your stomach and the top of your small intestine. A colonoscopy examines your rectum and large intestine.
Why you might need a gastroscopy
A gastroscopy can diagnose swallowing problems, stomach ulcers, cancers, and acid reflux. It can also treat conditions like Barrett’s oesophagus.
Why you might need a colonoscopy
You might need a colonoscopy if you have blood in your poo or a change in your bowel habit. A colonoscopy can diagnose conditions like Crohn’s disease, diverticular disease, ulcerative colitis, polyps, and bowel cancer.
Do you think you might need a gastroscopy or a colonoscopy? Contact us to book a consultation at Digestive Health UK, a collaborative team of specialised doctors.
