Acid reflux: when heartburn needs a specialist
- Dr Ganesh Sivaji
- 5 MIN READ
If your GP or specialist has recommended an endoscopy, it’s natural to feel a little anxious. The good news: it’s one of the safest, most informative procedures in modern medicine — and knowing what to expect makes all the difference.
Why an endoscopy might be recommended
An endoscopy lets your consultant see directly inside your digestive tract using a thin, flexible camera. It’s the most reliable way to investigate symptoms like persistent heartburn, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing or changes in bowel habits — and often to treat them in the same visit.
How to prepare
- Follow the fasting instructions you’re given — usually no food for 6 hours beforehand.
- For a colonoscopy, you’ll complete bowel preparation the day before.
- Arrange for someone to take you home if you choose sedation.
- Bring a list of any medications you currently take.
“The scariest part is rarely the procedure itself — it’s the unknown. My job is to remove that.”
What happens on the day
The procedure itself usually takes 15–30 minutes. You’ll be made comfortable, monitored throughout, and — if you’ve opted for sedation — may remember very little of it. Most patients head home within a couple of hours, and Dr Sivaji discusses the findings with you directly the same day.
Written by Dr Ganesh Sivaji
Consultant Gastroenterologist · FRCP
20+ years in digestive and liver medicine, with a focus on clear, patient-first care.
ON THIS PAGE
Understanding your endoscopy: what every patient should know
What to expect before and after your colonoscopy
Everyday habits for a healthier gut
Fatty liver disease, explained simply
Living well with IBS: a practical guide
Bowel cancer screening: who needs it and when
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