English 
Albanian 
Gastroscopy is one of the most important and common diagnostic procedures in the field of gastroenterological medicine. In this article, we will explain in detail what gastroscopy is, when it is recommended, how it is performed, how to prepare before it, aftercare after the procedure, and the most frequently asked questions by patients.
What is gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy is a diagnostic medical procedure that uses a special instrument called a gastroscope — a thin, flexible tube with a small camera and light source at the end — to look inside the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine (duodenum).
This method allows the doctor to directly assess the structure and function of these organs, detecting pathological changes such as inflammation, ulcers, tumors, or hemorrhage in time.
Unlike radiological examinations such as scanning, gastroscopy provides high-resolution images of the mucosa of the upper digestive tract and at the same time allows for the collection of samples (biopsies) for more in-depth histological analysis.
This makes it one of the most powerful and reliable tools for diagnosing gastrointestinal diseases.
Gastroscopy may be performed for diagnostic purposes, to determine the cause of symptoms such as abdominal pain, recurrent nausea, or bleeding from the digestive system.
It is also used therapeutically to treat problems during the procedure itself, such as stopping bleeding or removing polyps.
Furthermore, gastroscopy is a safe procedure, which is performed with very little discomfort for the patient, thanks to the use of sedatives and local anesthesia that significantly reduce the feeling of discomfort.
When is gastroscopy recommended?
Gastroscopy is performed to identify the cause of symptoms related to the upper digestive tract that cannot be diagnosed by other methods. Some of the most common reasons why doctors recommend performing a gastroscopy include:
- Recurrent pain in the upper abdomen
- Chronic heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained nausea and vomiting
- Bleeding from the mouth or in vomit
- Blood in the stool
- Anemia of unknown cause
- Unexplained weight loss
Gastroscopy is also used for regular checkups for patients with risk factors for stomach cancer, such as those with a family history, Helicobacter pylori infection, or a history of ulcers.
How is the gastroscopy procedure performed?
Before the procedure, the patient must fast for 6-8 hours, so that the stomach is empty and a clear view is ensured.
On the day of the procedure, the patient is placed in a comfortable position, usually on their side, and given an intravenous sedative to calm them down. Local anesthesia may also be used to numb the area and reduce discomfort during the passage of the tube.
The gastroscopic tube is then inserted through the mouth, passes through the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, transmitting images to a monitor in real time. During the examination, the doctor observes the mucosa and, if necessary, takes samples for biopsy or performs therapeutic interventions.
The procedure usually lasts 10-20 minutes, depending on the case or the need for other treatments.
Should you consult a doctor to have a gastroscopy?
| Relevant Signs/Situations | Advice for you | |
| Persistent or severe stomach pain | Pain that doesn't go away or recurs for weeks | Don't neglect it. Consult your doctor for a thorough examination. |
| Recurrent heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux | Heartburn, bad taste in the mouth, stuttering | If symptoms persist after treatment with antacids, seek medical advice. |
| Difficulty or pain when swallowing | Feeling that food is stuck in the throat or chest | This may indicate narrowing or inflammation – it is important to diagnose with gastroscopy. |
| Nausea, repeated vomiting or vomiting with blood | Special care in case of bleeding | Seek medical attention immediately. Gastroscopy can reveal the cause and aid in treatment. |
| Blood in the stool | It could be a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract. | Seek urgent consultation; early diagnosis is vital. |
| Unexplained weight loss | Rapid loss and for no apparent reason | This requires further investigation, including gastroscopy. |
| Unexplained anemia | Feeling tired, weak, dizzy | It may be a result of occult bleeding; consult your doctor for tests and gastroscopy. |
| Family history of digestive tract cancer | People at highest risk | Consult for preventive examinations with gastroscopy periodically. |
| Confirmed Helicobacter pylori infection | Symptoms of ulcer or gastritis | Proper treatment and control with gastroscopy helps prevent complications. |
| Sudden changes in stool or other worrisome symptoms | Like changes in digestion or blood in the stool | Discuss with your doctor to determine the need for gastroscopy. |
Care after gastroscopy
After the procedure is complete, the patient stays in a recovery room for a few minutes for monitoring. The effects of the sedatives wear off quickly, and most patients can return to normal activities within a few hours.
Due to the numbness in the throat, it is recommended not to consume food or drink for 1-2 hours after the procedure. The first meals should be light, such as lukewarm soup, natural yogurt, white toast or soft fruit. Fatty, spicy or hot foods should be avoided for at least 24 hours.
If biopsies are taken, the test results are usually received within a few days and the doctor provides instructions for next steps.
Modern technology in gastroscopy
In recent years, technological advances have transformed the way gastroscopy is performed. Modern devices are thinner, more flexible, and provide very high-quality images, enabling more accurate diagnosis.
Some of the newer gastroscopes have integrated functions such as LED lighting, field of view magnification, and NBI (Narrow Band Imaging) technology that helps identify blood vessels and mucosal structures.
This means that doctors can identify early changes in tissues that may previously have gone unnoticed. At Family Hospital, European standard equipment is used, which provides maximum safety and comfort for patients.
Therapeutic Gastroscopy: Not Just for Diagnosis
Many patients think that gastroscopy is only a diagnostic procedure. In fact, it can also have a therapeutic function. For example, the following interventions can be performed during gastroscopy:
- Stopping active bleeding from an ulcer
- Removal of small polyps
- Opening of strictures in the esophagus or duodenum through dilation
- Stent placement in cases of tumor blockages
- Removal of foreign bodies that have been accidentally swallowed
This makes gastroscopy not only a diagnostic tool, but also an effective real-time treatment procedure.
The role of diet after gastroscopy
After undergoing a gastroscopy procedure, it is important to eat a light diet to help your body recover. The use of local anesthesia in the throat can cause numbness for a few hours, so it is recommended not to eat until this sensation has completely passed.
Then, the foods you should consume initially should be soft and easy to digest: lukewarm soup, toasted white bread, natural yogurt, or bananas.
Spicy, fatty, or hot foods should be avoided for at least 24 hours. If biopsies have been taken, your doctor may provide more detailed dietary instructions.
Gastroscopy in the prevention of stomach cancer
In some cases, gastroscopy plays a vital role in the early detection of precancerous changes, such as intestinal metaplasia or dysplasia. These changes in the gastric mucosa do not always cause visible symptoms, but can be detected through gastroscopy examinations, especially in individuals with high risk factors, such as:
- Family history of stomach cancer
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- Old stomach ulcers
- Smoking and high alcohol consumption
- Diet rich in canned and salty foods
A timely gastroscopy can help prevent and diagnose cancer early.
Frequently asked questions about gastroscopy
Is gastroscopy a painful procedure?
No. Thanks to local anesthesia, most patients feel relaxed and do not experience pain. Some may feel a feeling of pressure in the throat or mild discomfort, but the procedure itself is not painful.
Can I eat immediately after the procedure?
In most cases, yes. But you should wait until the effect of the local anesthesia and sedation has fully worn off – usually 1-2 hours. Your doctor will advise you accordingly.
Are there any risks to gastroscopy?
Risks are rare, but include mucosal abrasions, vomiting, reactions to sedatives, and, very rarely, damage to internal organs. At Family Hospital, these risks are minimized thanks to the highest safety standards.
Is it necessary to stay in the hospital?
No. Gastroscopy is performed on an outpatient basis and the patient can usually leave within the same day, after a short recovery period.
How often can gastroscopy be done?
There is no limit. Its frequency depends on medical need – for example, for patients with chronic ulcers, it may be repeated every few months to monitor the progress of treatment.
Can a biopsy be taken during the procedure?
Yes. If the doctor sees any suspicious changes in the mucosa, he can take a sample for analysis without the need for additional intervention.
Does the use of medication affect the performance of gastroscopy?
Some medications can interfere, so it's important to tell your doctor about any medications you're taking. In some cases, you'll be asked to stop taking them temporarily.
Is gastroscopy safe for pregnant women?
In general, gastroscopy is only performed in emergency cases during pregnancy. If possible, it is postponed until after delivery to avoid any risks.
Can gastroscopy be replaced with ultrasound or scanner?
Not completely. Gastroscopy provides direct views of the mucosa and allows for biopsies to be taken, which ultrasound and CT scans do not allow.
cONcluSiON
Gastroscopy is one of the most important diagnostic procedures for timely identification of upper digestive tract problems. With proper preparation and a qualified medical team like at Family Hospital, this procedure is safe, fast and of exceptional value for your health.
If you have recurring symptoms or concerns that have not been resolved, do not hesitate to consult our specialists. A gastroscopy can be the first step towards successful treatment!
