To put your mind at ease before any endoscopy procedure, it’s a good idea to ask your gastroenterologist a number of questions. Read our blog to discover the commonly asked questions about endoscopy that should help you relax as much as possible.
What is an endoscopy?
An endoscopy is a type of camera test. We can use it to screen for, diagnose, and treat certain gastrointestinal (GI) conditions.
Watch Dr Sami, our Consultant Gastroenterologist and Founder, explain the endoscopy procedure in our video below.
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Preparing for an endoscopy
Our stomach specialist (gastroenterologist) will walk you through what will happen during your endoscopy. We will provide detailed information on how you need to prepare before your endoscopy takes place.
How you prepare will depend on the type of endoscopy: gastroscopy or colonoscopy. Both involve fasting, though colonoscopy preparation also involves using a laxative. To help you prepare for a colonoscopy, read our blog: How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
You may also find the following video useful: What can I eat before a colonoscopy?
Questions to ask before an endoscopy
Before your endoscopy, you might worry about not having all the information you need. If you aren’t sure which questions to ask your gastroenterologist, our handy list below should help.
Which type of endoscopy do I need?
The type of endoscopy we will perform will depend on the symptoms you present with and what we think could be causing your issue. You may also need both a colonoscopy and a gastroscopy.
Will I need to stop my medication?
2 weeks before a gastroscopy, sometimes we ask you to stop taking any medication that affects acid reflux production in your stomach. 7-10 days before an endoscopy, stop taking iron supplements and blood thinners.
Your gastroenterologist can give you exact advice on which medications you can continue to take. Make sure you inform the specialist of the medicine you are taking well before your procedure.
How long will it take?
An endoscopy usually takes between 10 and 30 minutes. A colonoscopy tends to take slightly longer than a gastroscopy. Watch our video for a more detailed answer from Dr Sami: How long does an endoscopy take?
Will I need a sedative?
We commonly use conscious sedation during an endoscopy. But, you can ask to have it without sedation. Learn more about this in our blog: Sedation and communication during an endoscopy.
When will I get my results?
At Digestive Health UK, your results should arrive between a few days to two weeks depending on what tests we need to do. Though, it may differ in other clinics. Watch our video here to learn more: How long for endoscopy biopsy results to come back?
Does my age affect anything?
There is no strict upper age limit for endoscopy. There is a slightly higher risk of complications in patients who are more frail. We do offer alternative tests to a colonoscopy, but these tests may not be as accurate or appropriate.
Older age alone is rarely a reason to avoid an endoscopic procedure. If you are concerned, get advice from our gastroenterologist.
Is there anything else that could affect my endoscopy?
Ensure you inform your gastroenterologist of any health conditions you have and the medications you take. You should also let the specialist know if you are pregnant or have any allergies.
How will I feel after the procedure?
If we sedate you, you might feel sleepy and relaxed for a while until the sedative wears off. Some people report experiencing a minor headache and sickness after sedation.
You might also feel bloated for a short time after the procedure. Dr Sami explains endoscopy recovery further in the following video: How long does it take to recover from an endoscopy?
What are the risks of endoscopy?
Complications are extremely rare, and we will discuss endoscopy risks before the procedure.
Possible complications:
- Allergic reaction
- Heart irregularities
- Breathing difficulties
- Incomplete procedure
- Puncturing your oesophagus, stomach, or duodenum
- Bleeding
Some of the risks are specific to the type of endoscopy, such as damage to the teeth during a gastroscopy.
How much does an endoscopy cost?
We offer endoscopy packages for self-pay patients.
- Diagnostic endoscopy (gastroscopy): approximately £1,450
- Colonoscopy: approximately £1,925
- Combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy procedure: approximately £2,300
Digestive Health UK is a fee-assured provider and works with all major insurance companies as well as smaller insurers. Find out more on our Fees page.
How can I hear the experiences of others?
Reading the patient testimonials from others who have visited Digestive Health UK may help you make your decision. Dr Sami is one of the highest ranked gastroenterologists in London. See our verified patients reviews on Doctify where patients feedback on their experience.
Below are some of the recent testimonials from our endoscopy patients.
“Great care and attention to details. Picked up on few issues I was not aware of and currently on road to recovery.”
“I felt I was being listened to and all concerns addressed. Felt relaxed and was able to get clear answers to my questions.”
“Best doctor for endoscopy. I had anxiety issues and pain with cameras in the past. Dr Sami is a very confident and calming character. Clear communication. Not felt any pain this time because the sedation was more and overall very comfortable.”
“Very helpful and kind doctor. I had swallowing problems and Dr Sami was recommended to me by my local GP. He did my endoscopy procedures and I could tell he was an expert on this.”
There are also health forums, such as HealthUnlocked, where you can talk to others who have had an endoscopy.
Get in touch
If you need a private endoscopy, get in touch with our gastroenterology clinic. Our experts specialise in endoscopy.
If you need an endoscopy, asking your gastroenterologist these questions can help you feel more confident and reassured.
