A gastroscopy is the insertion of a flexible camera system into your food pipe and stomach to diagnose and treat a range of stomach problems
A gastroscopy, also called an upper GI endoscopy, is a common diagnostic procedure used to examine your upper digestive system. If you are experiencing ongoing stomach pain, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing or unexplained digestive symptoms, a gastroscopy can help identify the cause.
At Fairfield Independent Hospital, we offer private gastroscopy in St Helens with prompt access to experienced consultant gastroenterologists. You can avoid long waiting lists and receive expert assessment in a calm, professional environment.
Our focus is on ensuring you feel fully informed, comfortable and supported throughout your care.
Your GP or specialist may recommend a gastroscopy if you are experiencing persistent or unexplained upper digestive symptoms. These may include:
A gastroscopy is often used to investigate conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), stomach ulcers, coeliac disease and, in some cases, early signs of cancer.
If you have already tried medication without improvement, or your symptoms are worsening, a gastroscopy can provide valuable clarity. Seeing the inside of your digestive system directly allows your consultant to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
Choosing private gastroscopy in St Helens means you can have the procedure without delay, helping to reduce uncertainty and allowing you to begin treatment sooner.
Understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety about the procedure. A gastroscopy is usually carried out as a day-case procedure, meaning you can return home the same day.
When you arrive at Fairfield Independent Hospital, you will be welcomed by our nursing team and prepared for your procedure. Your consultant will explain the process again and answer any final questions.
You will usually be offered a local anaesthetic spray to numb your throat. Sedation may also be available to help you relax. If you choose sedation, you will feel drowsy but remain responsive.
During a gastroscopy, a thin, flexible camera (called an endoscope) is passed gently through your mouth and into your oesophagus (food pipe), stomach and the first part of your small intestine. This allows your consultant to look directly at the lining of your digestive tract and, if necessary, take small tissue samples for further analysis.
As the endoscope is gently guided through your mouth into your oesophagus and stomach, the camera transmits images to a screen, allowing your consultant to examine the lining carefully. The procedure typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes.
If necessary, small biopsies (tissue samples) can be taken. This is painless and does not prolong the procedure significantly.
Afterwards, you will rest in a recovery area until you feel ready to go home. If you have had sedation, you will need someone to accompany you and avoid driving for 24 hours.
The cost of a private gastroscopy at Fairfield Independent Hospital depends on several factors, including whether sedation is required and whether biopsies or additional investigations are needed.
Before your procedure, you will be given clear information about consultation fees, procedure costs and any associated tests. We are committed to transparent pricing, so you understand the full scope of your care before proceeding.
If you are self-funding, our team can guide you through payment options. If you are using private medical insurance, we recommend confirming authorisation with your insurer in advance. Our team can assist with any paperwork or queries.
Proper preparation is important to ensure your stomach is empty and the procedure can be carried out safely and effectively.
You will be given clear written instructions before your appointment. Typically, you will need to:
If you take blood-thinning medication, diabetes medication or other regular prescriptions, you will receive specific advice about whether these should be adjusted before your gastroscopy.
Our team will ensure you fully understand the preparation steps and feel confident about what to do in advance of your appointment.
The term ‘endoscopy’ is a general term that refers to any procedure where a flexible camera is used to examine the inside of the body. A gastroscopy is a specific type of endoscopy focused on the upper gastrointestinal tract.
In other words, all gastroscopies are endoscopies, but not all endoscopies are gastroscopies. For example, a colonoscopy examines the large intestine, while a cystoscopy looks at the bladder. A gastroscopy specifically examines the oesophagus, stomach and upper small intestine.
Your consultant will explain why a gastroscopy is the most appropriate investigation for your symptoms and whether any additional tests may be required.
When you choose to go private with Fairfield Independent Hospital, you can expect:
Our private hospital in St Helens offers convenient access for patients travelling from Liverpool, Manchester and surrounding areas. You will benefit from modern facilities, experienced gastroenterologists and a supportive nursing team focused on your comfort and safety.
From your first consultation through to follow-up care, your experience is designed to be seamless and reassuring.
If you are experiencing persistent digestive symptoms and would like a specialist assessment, booking a private gastroscopy at Fairfield Independent Hospital is straightforward.
You can contact the hospital directly to arrange a consultation with a consultant gastroenterologist. During this appointment, your symptoms will be discussed in detail and a gastroscopy can be scheduled promptly if appropriate.
Seeking early investigation can provide peace of mind and allow treatment to begin without unnecessary delay. Our team is here to support you at every stage, ensuring you feel informed, comfortable and confident in your care.
To book your gastroscopy in St Helens, get in touch with Fairfield Independent Hospital today and take the next step towards better digestive health.
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