Upper GI endoscopy
Gastroscopy — looking inside the food pipe, stomach and duodenum

An upper GI endoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside the food pipe (oesophagus), stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It helps find the cause of symptoms such as persistent acidity, difficulty swallowing or bleeding, and small tissue samples can be taken during the test. Endoscopy is done by the gastroenterology team at Charak Hospital, Lucknow.

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About the test

What is an upper GI endoscopy?

The endoscope is passed gently through the mouth after the throat is numbed with a spray, with or without sedation. Air is used to open up the stomach so the lining can be seen clearly. The doctor can take biopsies, test for H. pylori infection and treat some problems such as bleeding.

  • Usually takes 10 to 20 minutes
  • Done as a day procedure
  • Throat spray and, if needed, sedation
  • Biopsies do not hurt
  • Results of the visual examination are explained the same day; biopsy reports take a few days

Direct view

See the lining clearly.

Biopsy

Small samples for lab testing.

Treatment

Stop bleeding, remove polyps or stretch narrowings.

Day care

Go home the same day.

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Why it is done

Why your doctor may advise an endoscopy

Common reasons include:

Persistent acidity or reflux

Not settling with medicines.

Difficulty swallowing

Food sticking or pain when swallowing.

Bleeding

Vomiting blood or black stools.

Weight loss

Unexplained, with poor appetite.

Upper abdominal pain

Ongoing or recurring.

Persistent vomiting

Without a clear cause.

Anaemia

Low iron without a known cause.

Follow-up

Of ulcers or other known conditions.

Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools? This can be serious. Come to the 24×7 emergency department or call 0522-666-4444. Call 0522-666-4444.

Preparation

How to prepare

Good preparation makes the test safer and clearer.

Fasting

Do not eat for about 6 to 8 hours before the test; small sips of water may be allowed until 2 hours before, as instructed.

Medicines

Tell the team about blood thinners, diabetes medicines and insulin; you may need to adjust them.

Sedation

If you have sedation, bring someone to take you home and do not drive for the rest of the day.

Reports

Bring previous endoscopy reports and a list of medicines.

Consent

The doctor will explain the procedure and ask for written consent.

On the day

What happens during the test

Here is what to expect.

During the endoscopy

You lie on your left side. A mouth guard protects your teeth. The doctor passes the endoscope gently and examines the food pipe, stomach and duodenum. You may feel some pressure or bloating, but you can breathe normally.

Takes about 10 to 20 minutesThroat spray numbs the throatSedation if planned

During

  • Breathe slowly through your nose
  • Let saliva drain out
  • Signal if uncomfortable

Biopsy

  • Tiny samples may be taken
  • You will not feel them
  • Results take a few days
Afterwards

Recovery and when to call

General guidance — always follow the advice your own doctor gives you.

Eating

Start with light food and drink; return to your normal diet as advised.

Medicines

Restart your usual medicines as advised by the team.

Contact us urgently if

  • Severe chest, neck or stomach pain
  • Fever or vomiting after the test
  • Vomiting blood or black stools
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
0522-666-4444
Gastroenterology team

Doctors who perform endoscopy

Dr. (Prof.) Ashok Kumar, Senior Consultant, Surgical Gastroenterology, Charak Hospital Lucknow
Senior Consultant, Surgical Gastroenterology

Dr. (Prof.) Ashok Kumar

MBBS, MS, M.Ch (Surgical Gastroenterology), FRCS, FACS

Colorectal and pelvic floor surgery, HPB and pancreatic surgery, and GI cancer surgery. OPD: Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm.

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Gastroenterology Acid reflux (GERD) Peptic ulcers
Practical help

What to bring, costs & insurance

A little preparation helps us help you faster.

What to bring to your visit

Tick off as you pack:

  • Doctor’s prescription
  • Previous endoscopy reports
  • List of medicines, especially blood thinners
  • A companion if you will have sedation

Costs & insurance

The cost depends on whether biopsies or treatment are needed and on sedation. Ask our team for the current charges.

  • ✓Written estimate— ask for one before planned procedures or admission.
  • ✓Health insurance & TPA— cashless treatment for admissions under tie-up insurers; outpatient visits depend on your policy.
  • ✓Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) accepted for eligible admissions.
  • ✓Corporate & PSU panels— ask whether your employer has a tie-up with Charak Hospital.

*Coverage depends on your policy and the treatment. Our insurance desk can check this for you.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Is endoscopy painful?

Most people feel mild discomfort or pressure rather than pain. Throat spray and sedation make it easier.

How long do I need to fast?

Usually 6 to 8 hours. Follow the exact instructions given by the team.

Can I go home the same day?

Yes, endoscopy is a day procedure.

Is endoscopy safe?

Complications are uncommon. The doctor will explain the small risks, such as bleeding after a biopsy or a reaction to sedation.

When will I get the results?

Visual findings are explained the same day; biopsy results take a few days.

Glossary

Words you may hear

EndoscopeA thin, flexible tube with a camera and light.
BiopsyA tiny tissue sample sent to the lab.
H. pyloriA stomach bacterium that can cause ulcers.
DuodenumThe first part of the small intestine.
OGDOesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy, another name for upper GI endoscopy.

No matching term. Please ask your doctor at your next visit.

Related pages

Related departments and guides

Gastroenterology Acid reflux (GERD) Gastritis Peptic ulcers All tests and scans

Book an endoscopy

Bring your doctor’s prescription and follow the fasting instructions. Call 0522-666-4444.

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Your details are used only to contact you about your appointment.

Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general health information for patients and families. It is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. Treatment decisions depend on each patient's individual condition. In an emergency, call 0522-666-4444 or go to the nearest emergency department.

About this page: Prepared by the Charak Hospital web team with the help of AI writing tools, using information from the Department of Medical Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Charak Hospital & Research Centre ·  Last updated: October 2026

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