Gastroscopy

An upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy) is a minimally invasive test that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine. This allows your doctor to check for issues such as inflammation, ulcers, or abnormal growths.
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What is a Gastroscopy?

An upper GI endoscopy, often referred to as a gastroscopy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the upper part of the digestive system. This includes the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the first section of the small intestine (duodenum). During the test, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) is gently passed through the mouth and down into the digestive tract. This provides the doctor with clear images of the lining on a screen, helping them to identify abnormalities such as inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, or unusual growths. In some cases, small tissue samples (biopsies) can also be taken for further analysis, making the procedure an important tool for both diagnosis and treatment.
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What is the purpose of a Gastroscopy?

Your doctor may suggest an upper GI endoscopy if you are experiencing symptoms such as:

  • Ongoing heartburn or acid reflux
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Frequent nausea or vomiting
  • Stomach pain, discomfort, or bloating
  • Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools

This procedure can help diagnose a wide range of conditions, including gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), stomach or duodenal ulcers, Barrett’s oesophagus, coeliac disease, and cancers of the stomach or oesophagus. In addition to diagnosis, an endoscopy can also be used as a treatment tool—for example, to remove polyps, control bleeding, or stretch a narrowed oesophagus to make swallowing easier.

What happens during a Gastroscopy?

An upper GI endoscopy usually takes around 10–15 minutes and is performed as an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day.

During the procedure:

  • A local anaesthetic spray may be applied to numb your throat, and you might be offered a sedative to help you relax.
  • The doctor will gently guide the endoscope through your mouth, down the oesophagus, and into the stomach and duodenum.
  • Air may be introduced through the endoscope to slightly inflate your digestive tract, providing a clearer view.
  • The camera on the endoscope transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to check for any abnormalities.
  • If needed, small tissue samples (biopsies) can be collected for further analysis.

Most people find the procedure painless, though you may experience mild discomfort or bloating from the air used during the examination.

Do I need any Preparation Before my Gastroscopy?

Prior to an upper GI endoscopy, you’ll need to fast—avoiding food and drink for 6–8 hours—so your stomach is empty. This helps your doctor get a clear view of your digestive tract. You may also be advised to temporarily pause certain medications, such as blood thinners, depending on your health and treatment plan.

Your doctor or nurse will give you personalised instructions based on your medical history and current medications. Following these guidelines carefully is essential for a safe and successful procedure.

Are there any Risks in having a Colonoscopy?

An upper GI endoscopy is generally very safe, though, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. These may include:

  • A sore throat or mild bloating, which usually resolves quickly
  • Minor bleeding, particularly if a biopsy is performed
  • Rare complications such as infection, perforation of the digestive tract, or an adverse reaction to sedatives

Your doctor will go over the potential risks and benefits in detail before the procedure to ensure you are fully informed.

What happens afterwards?

After the procedure, you’ll be observed for a short period to ensure you are recovering safely, particularly if sedation was used. A mild sore throat is common but typically resolves within a day.

If any biopsies were taken or treatments performed during the endoscopy, your doctor will review the results with you and outline the next steps. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities the following day.
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Our Testing Process

At Gut Diagnostics, an upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy) is a routine, minimally invasive procedure used to examine the upper digestive tract. Using a thin, flexible tube with a camera, your consultant can directly view the lining of your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine to identify issues such as inflammation, ulcers, or abnormal growths. After the procedure, your results will be carefully reviewed, and if necessary, a personalised treatment plan will be developed to support your digestive health and ongoing care.
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Book your appointment

If you’ve been referred by your GP or another healthcare professional, you can book directly with us. If you don’t yet have a referral, our team can advise you on how to arrange one.

Attend your Gastroscopy

To examine the upper digestive tract, you may undergo an upper GI endoscopy (gastroscopy) using an endoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at the tip. The scope is gently passed through the mouth to provide clear images of the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum), allowing your consultant to assess the lining for inflammation, ulcers, or abnormal growths. During the procedure, small tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken for further analysis. Your consultant will review these findings in detail to provide an accurate diagnosis and outline any necessary next steps in your care.

Receive your results and personalised report

In most cases, the consultant can discuss the initial results with you straight after the procedure. If tissue samples (biopsies) have been taken, these will be sent to the laboratory for further examination by a pathologist. The results are usually available within a few days, and your healthcare team will let you know how and when you’ll receive them.

See what our patients have to say.

"On time, clear & precise , I felt relaxed and comfortable , and he was easy to speak to."
Verified on Doctify
16 January 2025
"A high level of skill coupled with a calm professionalism made my first colonoscopy a relatively straightforward experience."
Verified on Doctify
06 November 2025
"Excellent service from initial consultation through to my procedure."
Verified on Doctify
12 November 2025
"A very useful experience everything explained well, no problems, pleasant Doctor."
Verified on Doctify
02 February 2026
"My visit was well organised with a brief consultation and blood test."
Verified on Doctify
11 August 2025
"I am very pleased with every aspect of the treatment and care I received."
Verified on Doctify
25 July 2025
"I was worried coming in but everyone was very welcoming and made me relax and the procedure was much quicker than expected."
Verified on Doctify
25 June 2025
"Wonderful experience from start to finish. Everything was explained very clearly and reassuring."
Verified on Doctify
13 June 2025
Throughout all this he has been very professional, friendly and extremely supportive. It all was a very positive experience. Thank you.
Verified on Top Doctors
11 December 2025
One of the few doctors I have seen whom I truly feel listened to, empathised with and whom I can trust to look after my health and get to the bottom of what's wrong. Thank you so much!
Verified on Top Doctors
6 December 2025
"The water based technique for colonoscopy enabled me to be cured without trauma of surgery. I am eternally grateful."
Verified on Top Doctors
24 November 2025
"All the staff were amazing, friendly and professional."
Verified on Top Doctors
21 November 2025
"Professional, calm, and reassuring, explained everything clearly, and I didn’t feel a thing. Outstanding care throughout, I can highly recommend him."
Verified on Top Doctors
31 October 2025
"Outstanding care throughout, I can highly recommend him."
Verified on Top Doctors
31 October 2025
"I would definitely recommend and thank them for the care and attention"
Verified on Top Doctors
12 October 2025
"Very personable and professional from the start and made me feel at ease immediately. He’s quickly got me through the process and I couldnt be more impressed."
Verified on Top Doctors
9 October 2025

How much does a Gastroscopy Cost?

Simple, transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Paying for yourself
You don’t need private medical insurance to be treated at Gut Diagnostics. As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, high-quality healthcare at times that work best for you.

You don't need a referral from your GP or specialist. We provide comprehensive consultations to ensure the test is right for you. The self-pay route makes the process much simpler — there’s no need for insurance authorisation, and you’ll benefit from a wider choice of consultants and more flexible appointment times.
Paid by insurance
Gut Diagnostics is recognised by all major health insurance providers. If you have a personal policy, or cover arranged through your employer, you can use it to pay for your care — from your first consultation through to treatment, surgery, and aftercare such as physiotherapy.

As policies vary, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to confirm exactly what is included in your cover before starting treatment.

Gastroscopy

Private Gastroscopy at Gut Diagnostics costs £2,355
£2,355
INCLUDES
Your fee includes the procedure as well as:
Initial consultation
Personalised referral letter
Monitoring and support
High-resolution images
Comprehensive report
Priority scheduling
Treatment advice
Coordination with specialist
Follow-up consultation
Safe hospital environment
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Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the product and billing.
What is a gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy, or upper GI endoscopy, is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) to examine your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It helps doctors detect conditions such as inflammation, ulcers, or abnormal growths.
Why would I need a gastroscopy?
Your doctor may recommend a gastroscopy if you experience persistent heartburn, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, unexplained stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or signs of bleeding. It can help diagnose conditions like gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), ulcers, Barrett’s oesophagus, or stomach cancer.
How should I prepare for the procedure?
You’ll need to fast (no food or drink) for 6–8 hours before the test to ensure your stomach is empty. You may also need to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, temporarily. Your doctor or nurse will provide detailed instructions tailored to your health needs.
What happens during a gastroscopy?
A local anaesthetic is sprayed in your throat, and you may receive a sedative. The doctor gently passes the endoscope through your mouth into your oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Air may be introduced to expand your stomach, and images are displayed on a monitor. Biopsies can be taken if needed.
Is the procedure painful?
Most people experience little to no pain. You may feel mild discomfort, bloating, or a sore throat from the anaesthetic or air introduced into your stomach. Sedation helps most patients relax during the procedure.
Are there any risks?
Gastroscopy is generally very safe. Temporary side effects may include a sore throat or bloating. Rare complications include minor bleeding (especially if biopsies are taken), infection, perforation of the digestive tract, or reactions to sedatives.
How long does it take to recover?
Recovery is usually quick. Most people can resume normal activities the next day. If sedation is used, you will need monitoring until it wears off. A mild sore throat may last a day or so. Your doctor will explain any results and follow-up care.
What happens after the procedure?
Your consultant will review any findings, including biopsies, and explain the results. Based on these results, a personalised treatment plan may be recommended, which could include dietary changes, medication, or further testing to manage your condition.

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At Gut Diagnostics, we are a dedicated team of gut health specialists, bringing together advanced diagnostics and compassionate care.

Our flagship clinic is proudly based at The Priory Hospital, a renowned centre of medical excellence. This prestigious setting provides our patients with access to state-of-the-art facilities, a safe and regulated environment, and the support of a leading multidisciplinary healthcare team.

Our specialists are here to guide you on your journey to better digestive health.
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