Gastroscopy (Upper GI Endoscopy)

This test examines the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. The stomach must be completely empty.

• Fasting: Strict fasting (no solid food or liquids, not even water) for at least 8 hours before the test.
• Smoking: Do not smoke on the day of the test, as it stimulates gastric secretion.
• Medication (Anticoagulants/Antiplatelets): If you take anticoagulants (such as acenocoumarol/sintrom, warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, dabigatran, heparin, etc.) or antiplatelets (such as aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel, etc.), your doctor will tell you whether to continue, adjust or stop them, depending on the type of procedure and your situation. It is ESSENTIAL that you follow the exact instructions given by your doctor. Review the consultation report in which the test was requested to confirm the specific guidelines for your case.
• Clothing and preparation: Remove removable dentures and facial piercings before the test. Come without nail polish, as a sensor (pulse oximeter) will be placed on your finger to monitor sedation.
• Companion: As it is usually performed under sedation, you must come with an adult, since the patient will not be able to drive or make important decisions for the rest of the day.
• Discomfort or pain after the test: After the procedure, it is common to feel slight throat irritation, abdominal bloating or gas. These symptoms usually disappear within a few hours.