Many patients get confused between the terms endoscopy test and gastroscopy test. They often wonder if both are the same. Gastroscopy is a type of endoscopy. It focuses on the upper digestive tract. Endoscopy refers to looking inside the body using a flexible camera. Understanding the differences between gastroscopy and endoscopy test will help you know what to expect.
In this comparison, we will explain the procedure differences, the purpose of gastroscopy, preparation, risks, and recovery of gastroscopy compared to other endoscopy procedures. By the end, you will know exactly how these tests differ and which is right for you.
What is an Endoscopy Test?
An endoscopy test is a procedure in which doctors use a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light to look inside your body. This tool is called an endoscope. The doctor inserts the endoscope through natural openings like the mouth or rectum. Sometimes the doctor inserts it through a small cut. It allows the doctor to see internal organs without surgery. Endoscopy is a general term. There are many types of endoscopic tests for different body areas. For example, a colonoscopy is an endoscopy of the colon.
Bronchoscopy checks the airways. Gastroscopy looks at the upper digestive tract. In gastrointestinal medicine, “endoscopy” often means checking parts of the digestive system. Doctors may suggest an endoscopy test if you have chronic digestive symptoms like abdominal pain, bleeding, or unexplained weight loss.
Endoscopy tests can identify ulcers, inflammation, tumors, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease throughout the digestive system. An endoscopy test is a diagnostic tool that shows internal organs and helps find the causes of health issues.
What is a Gastroscopy (Upper Endoscopy)?
Gastroscopy is a type of endoscopy procedure that focuses on the upper digestive tract. In this procedure, the doctor inserts the endoscope through the mouth and down the throat to examine the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum). This test checks only the upper digestive system. Doctors suggest a gastroscopy if a patient has upper abdominal symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, trouble swallowing, nausea, or stomach pain.
The camera on the gastroscope shows images of the esophagus and stomach lining. It helps doctors identify inflammation, ulcers, tumors, or bleeding. The gastroscopy purpose is mainly diagnosis. It can detect gastritis, peptic ulcers, or precancerous changes like Barrett’s esophagus. Gastroscopy can also be therapeutic. Doctors can take biopsies or treat conditions like stopping bleeding or stretching a narrow esophagus without surgery. A gastroscopy test evaluates problems in the upper digestive tract.
Procedure Differences: How They Are Done
A gastroenterologist performs an upper endoscopy procedure (gastroscopy) while the patient is lightly sedated. The flexible endoscope passes through the mouth to examine the esophagus and stomach. Gastroscopy and endoscopy test differ mainly in scope and method:
- Insertion route: Gastroscopy uses the mouth. Other endoscopies may use different entry points depending on the organ being examined. For example, a colonoscopy uses the rectum. Other endoscopies might require a small cut to insert the scope.
- Area examined: Gastroscopy only examines the upper digestive tract (food pipe and stomach). Endoscopy tests can examine more body parts. It may include joints, lungs or urinary system.
- Use of anesthesia/sedation: Gastroscopy usually uses moderate sedation or throat spray only. Other endoscopy procedures may need deeper sedation or general anesthesia.
- Duration and complexity: Gastroscopy lasts about 15–20 minutes because it covers a small area. Other endoscopies such as colonoscopy or combined exams may take 30 minutes to an hour because they cover more areas.
Gastroscopy is one form of endoscopy. Doctors often call gastroscopy an “upper endoscopy.”
Purpose and Uses: Endoscopy vs Gastroscopy
Both endoscopy test and gastroscopy diagnose or treat medical issues. Their purposes differ based on areas of concern:
General Endoscopy
Used for widespread or unclear digestive issues. Doctors suggest an endoscopy test for symptoms like long-term abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, or unexplained weight loss. Endoscopy is also used for routine checks in high-risk patients. It can diagnose conditions like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease.
Gastroscopy
The gastroscopy purpose is narrow. It targets the upper digestive tract. Doctors recommend a gastroscopy for long-term heartburn, swallowing issues, stomach pain or vomiting blood. Gastroscopy diagnoses conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, gastritis, stomach ulcers and tumors. Gastroscopy checks upper digestive issues only. Doctors choose gastroscopy when symptoms involve the upper stomach or esophagus.
Preparation: Gastroscopy vs Other Endoscopy Prep
Preparation for gastroscopy and other endoscopies has similarities and differences:
- Fasting: Both procedures require fasting. You cannot eat for 6–8 hours before gastroscopy. Clear liquids may be allowed up to 2 hours before the procedure.
- Bowel cleansing: Colonoscopy preparation is different from gastroscopy. You must drink laxatives and follow a special diet to empty your bowels for colonoscopy. Gastroscopy prep only requires fasting.
- Medication adjustments: Doctors may instruct you to pause certain medications before gastroscopy or other endoscopies. Blood thinners are an example. Always follow your doctor’s guidance.
- Sedation planning: Arrange transportation home if you choose sedation for gastroscopy or any endoscopy. You cannot drive yourself.
Risks and Complications
Both endoscopy test and gastroscopy are safe. There can be mild side effects or rare complications. Gastroscopy has fewer complications than some invasive endoscopy types because it usually does not involve cuts:
- Mild side effects: Gastroscopy may cause a mild sore throat or bloating. Colonoscopy may cause gas or mild cramping.
- Rare serious complications: Bleeding or perforation is rare but possible. Sedation complications or infection are also uncommon but possible.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from a gastroscopy or other endoscopy procedure is quick. Recovery is quick for both gastroscopy and other endoscopy procedures:
- Immediate recovery: You stay in recovery for about an hour after sedation. Arrange transportation home.
- Eating and drinking: After gastroscopy, wait about an hour until throat numbness wears off before eating or drinking.
- Feeling after procedure: You may feel groggy or have a mild sore throat for a day or two. Gas or bloating is also common but brief.
- Normal activities: Most patients resume activities within one day.
Gastroscopy Charges and Cost Considerations
In Pakistan gastroscopy charges usually range between ₨8,000–30,000. Costs vary based on complexity or if sedation and biopsies are included. Choose a reputable clinic and an experienced doctor.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Gastroscopy is one kind of endoscopy. It checks the upper digestive tract. Doctors choose gastroscopy for stomach or esophagus symptoms. If your issues involve other areas, doctors may recommend a different endoscopy test. For endoscopy or gastroscopy procedures in Lahore, consult Dr. Fahd Aziz Rana at Omar Hospital & Cardiac Centre.
He provides skilled gastroscopy and other endoscopy procedures with affordable gastroscopy charges. Early diagnosis with gastroscopy can save your life. Do not ignore digestive symptoms. Schedule your procedure today.
