The Oaks Hospital · Colchester, Essex
Private Gastroscopy (OGD) in Colchester
Dr Thines Karunakaran performs gastroscopy at The Oaks Hospital in Colchester for reflux, indigestion, swallowing difficulty and upper abdominal symptoms — with results explained to you on the day.
Dr Thines Karunakaran
Consultant Gastroenterologist
Reasons for a gastroscopy
A gastroscopy is often the quickest way to find the cause of upper digestive symptoms. It is commonly recommended for:
- Persistent heartburn or acid reflux not settling with treatment
- Indigestion or upper abdominal pain
- Difficulty or pain on swallowing
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Suspected stomach or duodenal ulcer
- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Suspected coeliac disease
- Surveillance of Barrett's oesophagus
Throat spray or sedation
You can choose local anaesthetic throat spray, sedation, or both. Throat spray means a faster discharge and no need for an escort; sedation makes the test hazier and more relaxed but requires someone to take you home.
Biopsies and treatment
Small tissue samples can be taken painlessly during the test to check for inflammation, Helicobacter pylori, coeliac disease or Barrett's oesophagus. Some problems, such as narrowings, can be treated endoscopically.
Insured and self-pay
Recognised by all major insurers including Bupa (Fee Assured), AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, WPA, Healix and Allianz. Self-pay packages are quoted in advance.
Gastroscopy FAQs
What is a gastroscopy (OGD)?+
A gastroscopy, also called an OGD or upper GI endoscopy, uses a thin flexible camera passed through the mouth to examine the oesophagus, stomach and the first part of the small bowel. Biopsies can be taken at the same time.
Do I need sedation for a gastroscopy?+
No — sedation is a choice. Many patients have the test with local anaesthetic throat spray alone, which wears off quickly and lets you eat, drink and drive home sooner. If you choose sedation, you will need someone to take you home and should not drive for 24 hours.
How do I prepare for a gastroscopy?+
You need an empty stomach, so you will be asked not to eat for around six hours and not to drink clear fluids for two hours before the test. You will be told which regular medicines to continue or pause when you book.
How long does a gastroscopy take?+
The examination itself usually takes 5–10 minutes. Including admission and recovery, most patients are at The Oaks Hospital for two to three hours.
What conditions can a gastroscopy diagnose?+
It can diagnose reflux damage and oesophagitis, hiatus hernia, Barrett's oesophagus, gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers, Helicobacter pylori infection, coeliac disease and, less commonly, tumours of the upper digestive tract.
When will I get my results?+
Dr Karunakaran explains the findings on the day. Biopsy results usually take a few weeks and are discussed at your follow-up appointment along with any treatment plan.
Arrange a gastroscopy in Colchester
GP referrals and self-referrals welcome. Rapid appointments at The Oaks Hospital, Colchester.