Upper GI Endoscopy in Visakhapatnam – What to Expect
If you’ve been dealing with frequent acidity, unexplained stomach pain, or discomfort after meals, your doctor may recommend an Upper GI Endoscopy. Many patients in Visakhapatnam search for safe and reliable options for this test, wondering questions like: “Is endoscopy painful?” or “Do I really need this procedure?”
At Chandu Super Speciality Clinic, Gopalapatnam, Visakhapatnam, our goal is to make patients feel comfortable by explaining every step of the process. This blog answers common questions, clears misconceptions, and highlights why timely diagnosis is so important for your digestive health.
What is an Upper GI Endoscopy?
An Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy is a medical test that allows your gastroenterologist to look inside your esophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the beginning of your small intestine (duodenum). Using a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera, the doctor can see changes that are not visible through regular scans or X-rays.
It is commonly used to diagnose:
Acid reflux (GERD) and heartburn
Stomach ulcers
Gastritis or inflammation
Unexplained abdominal pain
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Unexplained bleeding in the digestive tract
How to Prepare for the Procedure
Preparation is simple and usually involves:
✔️ Fasting – You may be asked not to eat or drink for 6–8 hours before the test.
✔️ Medical history – Bring your past reports and inform your doctor about ongoing medications.
✔️ Comfort – Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of your test.
Pro Tip: Always share details about heart problems, diabetes, or blood thinner use with your gastroenterologist before the procedure.
What to Expect During the Test
Patients often worry: “Is an endoscopy painful?” The truth is: No, it’s not painful. Most people only feel mild discomfort.
Here’s what happens step-by-step:
A mild sedative is given to help you relax.
The doctor gently inserts the endoscope through your mouth.
The camera transmits live images, allowing the doctor to carefully check for ulcers, inflammation, or any abnormal growths.
If needed, a small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for lab testing.
The whole procedure usually takes 15–20 minutes.
What Conditions Can It Detect?
Many patients are surprised at how much this simple test reveals:
Early signs of gastritis before they turn severe.
Small ulcers that might be missed on scans.
Polyps or growths that can be treated early.
Causes of unexplained anemia or bleeding.
By detecting these problems early, your doctor can recommend the right treatment plan before symptoms worsen.
Recovery After the Procedure
Recovery is quick. You’ll rest for a short time at the clinic until the sedative wears off. Mild throat irritation or bloating may occur, but it usually settles in a few hours. Most patients resume their routine by the next day.
Why Choose a Local Specialist in Visakhapatnam?
For patients in Gopalapatnam, Seethammadhara, Arilova, and nearby Vizag neighborhoods, traveling far for tests can be stressful. Having access to advanced gastro care right here in Visakhapatnam saves time and ensures quick treatment.
At Chandu Super Speciality Clinic, we provide:
State-of-the-art endoscopy facilities
Expert gastroenterology care with years of experience
Patient-friendly consultation and aftercare
Common Questions from Patients
❓ Is endoscopy safe?
Yes. It is one of the safest diagnostic tests with very minimal risk.
❓ Do I need to be admitted?
No. It’s usually done on an outpatient basis.
❓ How long does it take to recover?
Most people feel fine the same day or by the next morning.
❓ Can endoscopy detect cancer?
Yes, it helps identify abnormal growths or suspicious lesions early, so treatment can start promptly.
An Upper GI Endoscopy is a simple, safe, and highly informative test that helps diagnose common stomach problems early. If you’ve been ignoring symptoms like acidity, bloating, or abdominal discomfort, it may be time to consult a gastroenterologist.