Private gastroscopy in Enfield

Private gastroscopy at The Cavell Hospital in Enfield 

A gastroscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the upper part of your digestive system, including the oesophagus, stomach, and the first section of the small intestine. If you are experiencing ongoing digestive symptoms such as acid reflux, upper abdominal discomfort, or difficulty swallowing, a gastroscopy can help identify the cause and provide reassurance. 

At The Cavell Hospital, we offer private gastroscopy services in Enfield with prompt appointments, consultant-led care, and access to modern endoscopy facilities. Early investigation of digestive symptoms can support a faster diagnosis, helping to reduce uncertainty and guide appropriate treatment. 

Our aim is to provide a calm and supportive experience, ensuring you feel informed, comfortable, and reassured throughout every stage of your care. 

Expert care from experienced specialists

Your gastroscopy will be performed by consultant gastroenterologists with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the digestive system. 

Before your procedure, you will have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms in detail, understand why the investigation has been recommended, and ask any questions you may have. Throughout your care, we focus on clear communication, reassurance, and ensuring you remain as comfortable as possible. 

Consultant-led care throughout

Your procedure takes place in a dedicated endoscopy unit using advanced equipment that provides detailed imaging of the upper digestive tract. 

Should further investigation or treatment be required, your consultant will explain the findings and discuss the next steps with you. This coordinated approach helps ensure your care is efficient, personalised, and tailored to your individual needs. 

How much does a private gastroscopy cost at The Cavell Hospital? 

The cost of a gastroscopy depends on various factors, including your reasons for having one, the specifics of the procedure, and whether it’s a one-off procedure or part of a wider treatment plan.  

You can choose to fund your treatment through self-pay (paying for yourself) or use private health insurance. We work with most major providers, and our friendly advisory team can help guide you through using your cover. 

Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you. We offer fixed-term monthly payment plans over one to five years with no deposit required. If you decide to pay over 10 months, you will pay interest-free. If you are paying for a longer period, you will pay 9.9% APR. 

Understanding a gastroscopy

A gastroscopy is a type of endoscopy that enables a specialist to examine the lining of the upper digestive tract using a thin, flexible tube fitted with a small camera. 

Images from the camera are displayed on a monitor, allowing detailed assessment of the oesophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine. This can help identify conditions such as inflammation, ulcers, irritation, or other abnormalities that may be contributing to your symptoms. 

In some situations, small tissue samples (biopsies) may also be taken during the procedure to provide additional information and support diagnosis. 

Gastroscopy vs endoscopy: what's the difference? 

Endoscopy is a broad term used to describe procedures that use a camera to examine internal areas of the body. A gastroscopy is a specific type of endoscopy that focuses on the upper digestive system. 

Other endoscopic procedures investigate different areas of the body. For example, a colonoscopy is used to examine the large bowel. Your consultant will explain why a gastroscopy is the most appropriate investigation based on your symptoms and medical history. 

Why might you need to see a gastroenterologist? 

A wide range of conditions can affect the digestive system, and symptoms often vary depending on the underlying cause. 

Some of the common digestive conditions diagnosed and managed by gastroenterologists include: 

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) 

GORD occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the oesophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Many people experience this as heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that can worsen after eating or when lying down. 

Additional symptoms may include a sour taste in the mouth, persistent cough, or difficulty swallowing. While occasional reflux is common, ongoing symptoms should be investigated and may require treatment to prevent long-term complications. 

Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) 

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to chronic conditions that cause inflammation within the digestive tract. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive system, while ulcerative colitis affects the colon and rectum. 

Symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, unintended weight loss, and, in some cases, blood in the stool. These conditions often involve periods of flare-ups and remission and usually require ongoing specialist management. 

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) 

IBS is a common digestive condition that affects how the bowel functions rather than causing visible inflammation or damage. 

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhoea, constipation, or a combination of both. Symptoms can fluctuate and are often influenced by factors such as diet, stress, or hormonal changes. 

Peptic ulcers 

Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine. They are commonly associated with bacterial infection or long-term use of certain anti-inflammatory medications. 

Symptoms may include a burning pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, indigestion, or bloating. Early diagnosis and treatment are important, as untreated ulcers can sometimes lead to complications such as bleeding. 

Cancer of the digestive system 

Cancer can affect several areas of the digestive system, including the oesophagus, stomach, bowel, pancreas, and liver. 

Symptoms vary depending on the location but may include unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal discomfort, difficulty swallowing, changes in bowel habits, or blood in the stool. Although these symptoms are often caused by non-cancerous conditions, prompt investigation is important to rule out serious causes. 

Coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. 

This reaction damages the lining of the small intestine and affects nutrient absorption. Symptoms can include bloating, diarrhoea, fatigue, and weight loss, although some people experience more subtle symptoms. Management involves following a strict gluten-free diet to allow the intestine to heal and reduce the risk of complications. 

How to prepare for a gastroscopy

Preparing correctly for your gastroscopy helps ensure accurate and reliable results. In most cases, you will be asked not to eat or drink for a period before your appointment so that your stomach is empty. 

You will receive detailed instructions before your procedure, including guidance on medications and what to expect on the day. Following this advice carefully helps avoid delays and ensures the examination can be completed successfully. 

If you have any concerns about preparing for your appointment, our team will be happy to provide further advice and support. 

What happens during a gastroscopy?

Your gastroscopy will take place in a safe and supportive clinical environment. Before the procedure begins, your care team will explain each stage and answer any questions you may have. 

During the examination, a thin flexible camera is gently passed through your mouth and into the upper digestive tract. A local anaesthetic spray is used to numb the throat, and sedation is often available to help you feel more relaxed. 

A small amount of air is introduced to improve visibility, allowing your consultant to examine the digestive tract in detail. If necessary, biopsies can be taken during the procedure. Most gastroscopies take between 10 and 20 minutes to complete. 

Recovery after a gastroscopy 

Following the procedure, you will spend a short period in a recovery area until you are ready to return home. If you have received sedation, somebody will need to accompany you on your journey home, and you should rest for the remainder of the day. 

It is common to experience a mild sore throat or some bloating afterwards, but these symptoms usually settle quickly. Before you leave, your consultant will explain any initial findings and advise when your full results will be available. 

You will also receive aftercare guidance, including advice about eating, drinking, and any symptoms that should prompt further medical attention. 

Why choose The Cavell Hospital for gastroscopy in Enfield? 

When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:  

• Flexible appointment times to fit your schedule 
• Bespoke, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs  
• Support from the same compassionate clinical team from beginning to end  
• Transparent, fixed-price packages with aftercare included  
• Flexible payment options to help spread the cost of your care 

Going private for healthcare provides faster access to a vast range of treatment options, greater flexibility in choosing specialists, and more personalised care.  

How to book a gastroscopy in Enfield 

To book a consultation to discuss your symptoms with a gastroenterologist near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.  
 
If you would like to book straight in to a gastroscopy, give us a call. If you have a referral from a GP let us know over the phone. If not, our advisors can let you know whether it’s possible to book directly or whether you’ll need a consultation with a specialist first.