Gastroscopy in Málaga
Examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum, including biopsies and treatment of bleeding or mucosal lesions.
The upper endoscopy
During a gastroscopy a thin, flexible endoscope is passed through the mouth into the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. Inflammation, ulcers, reflux damage or changes in the lining can be seen directly.
During the examination, tissue samples can be taken, bleeding can be stopped and selected mucosal lesions can be treated.
When a gastroscopy makes sense
- Heartburn or reflux that does not respond to medication
- Difficulty swallowing
- Upper abdominal pain, nausea or fullness
- Suspected stomach ulcer or Helicobacter pylori
- Iron-deficiency anaemia or blood in the stool
- Follow-up of known changes, such as Barrett's oesophagus
- Suspected coeliac disease
Step by step
- 1
Preparation
No solid food for 12 hours before the sedation and nothing to drink, not even water, for 6 hours before. Blood thinners are discussed in advance.
- 2
Examination
Brief sedation; the examination takes a few minutes. Biopsies are painless.
- 3
Afterwards
A short rest, then we discuss the findings. Do not drive yourself on the day of the examination.
What patients often ask
Will I notice anything?
With sedation, most patients sleep and do not remember the examination. A specialist anaesthesiologist monitors you throughout.
When do I get the results?
We discuss the findings straight afterwards. Biopsy results are usually available after a few days.
What about my medications?
Most medications can be taken as usual. Blood thinners and diabetes medication are discussed in advance; please bring your medication list.