In the procedure room, you’ll lie on your left side while a small probe monitors your heart rate and oxygen levels. Oxygen can be given through soft prongs in your nose if needed. We’ll give you a throat spray and/or a light sedative, and a mouth guard to protect your teeth.

A thin, flexible telescope is passed through your mouth into your oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum. You may feel slight discomfort as it passes the back of your throat, but the procedure is very safe, and you’ll be able to breathe normally. Your consultant may take small biopsies for analysis. Most tests only last a few minutes, and results are often available immediately.

Some blood thinning medications, such as aspirin, clopidogrel or warfarin can prevent us from performing some procedures during an upper GI endoscopy. Please tell us if you’re taking these drugs, as we may ask you  to stop, or adjust certain blood-thinning medications for up to a week before your procedure. On the day, you should arrange for someone to take you home if you receive sedation, as you won’t be able to drive. If you do opt for sedation, avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day. Most people return to normal activities the following day.

Most patients don’t feel any pain. You can choose between sedation or a throat spray. If you opt for sedation, a thin cannula will be placed in your hand or arm so medications can be given directly into your bloodstream, keeping you relaxed and comfortable.