Gastroscopy is an examination of your upper digestive system to help your consultant find the possible cause for your symptoms. There are many reasons for performing a gastroscopy, these include:- 

•  Upper abdominal pain 
•  Nausea, indigestion, vomiting and weight loss 
•  Swallowing difficulties 
•  Anaemia 
•  Assessing any abnormalities found on x-ray 

The test may be used to guide further treatment. The gastroscope is a flexible tube about the thickness of your little finger, which is passed into your mouth, into the oesophagus (gullet) and into the stomach and duodenum. A bright light at the end of the endoscope allows the consultant to see the lining of the upper digestive track. The images are transferred onto a screen for the consultant to see. To allow clear views, please do not eat or drink for four hours prior to your admission.