“Frequent stomach pain, medicine helps but it comes back again…” This kind of symptom should not be ignored. Although taking medicine by yourself can temporarily relieve the symptoms, deep inside our digestive tract, there may be warning signs that are not visible from the outside.
What is Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy?
Many people think that endoscopy only examines the stomach, but actually, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy Upper GI Endoscopy or Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a procedure using a small, flexible, high-resolution camera inserted through the mouth to examine the entire upper digestive tract, including:
- Esophagus (Esophagus)
- Stomach (Stomach)
- Duodenum (Duodenum)
Why is it better than other tests?
Endoscopy allows doctors to see the internal tissues “clearly” and in “real-time,” unlike ultrasound or CT scans which may only show external structures but cannot detect small abrasions, minor ulcers, or early-stage cancer. Additionally, if suspicious areas are found, doctors can immediately perform a biopsy or treatments such as stopping bleeding or removing polyps without abdominal incisions.
Is endoscopy necessary?
Doctors answer that “it is not necessary for everyone but very important for certain groups” because endoscopy helps to
- Diagnose accurately without guessing the cause based only on history taking
- Detect early and treat promptly finding diseases at an early stage increases the chance of complete recovery
- Treat precisely helping doctors plan the most appropriate treatment for patients
Who should get examined?
If you fall into one of these 4 groups, doctors recommend consulting a physician to consider endoscopy.
1. Chronic upper digestive tract symptoms
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- Frequent stomach pain or epigastric discomfort
- Heartburn (acid reflux) disturbing daily life
- Frequent nausea and vomiting
- Bloating, fullness, decreased appetite
2. Dangerous “Alarm Symptoms”
This group should see a doctor immediately.
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- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty or pain swallowing
- Unusual fatigue or anemia (possibly due to internal bleeding without awareness) or iron deficiency anemia without a known cause
3. Risk groups to be monitored
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- Aged 40–50 years and above (depending on individual risk factors)
- Family history of stomach cancer or Helicobacter pylori infection
- Detected Helicobacter pylori infection
- Long-term smoking or alcohol consumption
4. No improvement after medication
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- Taking medication for gastritis or acid reflux but symptoms do not improve
- Frequent recurrence of symptoms
What can endoscopy detect?
- Stomach ulcers
- Acid reflux
- Polyps
- Early-stage cancer
- Helicobacter pylori infection
Common concerns: Does it hurt? Is it safe?
Nowadays, technology has advanced, and gastrointestinal endoscopy is considered a safe procedure.
- Performed under sedation (Sedation) Doctors will give a short-acting sedative to reduce anxiety and discomfort during the procedure. The examination takes only 15-30 minutes, and when you wake up, the procedure is already finished.
- No overnight stay required It is a One Day Service procedure. After the examination, patients rest for about 1 hour, then receive the results (available the same day) and can go home immediately.
Simple preparation before endoscopy
- Fasting from food and drink for at least 6–8 hours
- Inform health information including medical history, drug allergies, and current medications
- Blood thinners If you are taking them, inform your doctor immediately to plan safe discontinuation
Gastrointestinal and colonoscopy “Complete within 1 day” Convenient, fast, and reliable at Phyathai 2
Currently, gastrointestinal and colonoscopy procedures can be done as a One Day Service, completed within 1 day. This allows patients to be examined, diagnosed, and receive treatment advice from doctors on the same day. It is suitable for those with symptoms such as chronic stomach pain, bloating, abnormal stools, or those who want colorectal cancer screening without spending several days.
At Phyathai 2 Hospital, services are designed for convenience, allowing patients to choose morning, afternoon, or evening appointments. The preparation process is simplified, and private rooms are available, emphasizing privacy, cleanliness, safety, and close nursing care throughout all steps—from before, during, to after the procedure.
Additionally, modern endoscopy technology is used to provide clear images, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, under the care of specialized doctors and anesthesiologists to ensure patient comfort and safety.
With the concept of “Convenient, fast, no long wait,” gastrointestinal and colonoscopy at Phyathai 2 is another option that meets the lifestyle of modern people, helping them access screening and health care planning with greater confidence.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) about Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Q1: If I have no symptoms, should I get an endoscopy?
A: Generally, it may not be necessary unless you are in a high-risk group or have a direct family history of cancer.
Q2: How often should endoscopy be done?
A: It depends on the first examination results and individual risk factors. Some people only need one exam, while others may need follow-up every 1-3 years.
Q3: How is endoscopy better than X-rays?
A: Endoscopy allows direct visualization of tissue surfaces, colors, small lesions, and enables biopsy, which X-rays cannot do.
