Doctor: "This procedure, called an oesophagogastroduodenoscopy or OGD, allows us to look inside your oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine."
"We do this because of your symptoms and abnormal blood tests to ensure there is no serious underlying issue."
"You'll come into hospital where a thin, flexible tube with a camera will be passed down your throat into your stomach and duodenum."
"You might feel the tube going down but it shouldn't be painful. We'll spray your throat with a numbing agent and may give you sedation to help you relax."
"Air will be gently pumped into your stomach to improve visibility, which may cause you to feel bloated or make you burp."
"If necessary, we may take small tissue samples (biopsies) during the procedure, which you won't feel."
"It's important not to eat for at least six hours before the procedure to ensure your stomach is empty."
Doctor: "If you've had sedation, you shouldn't drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours afterwards."
"You'll be monitored in recovery until the sedation wears off."
"If only a throat spray was used, wait at least an hour before eating or drinking to prevent choking."
Doctor: "Common causes include hiatus hernia, where part of the stomach pushes into the chest area."
"Though rare, we need to rule out stomach cancer."
"Sometimes, dyspepsia can be caused by bacterial infections such as Helicobacter pylori."
Doctor: "You might feel bloated or gassy for a few hours after."
"Some people experience stomach cramps, but painkillers can help."
"You may notice a small amount of blood from your throat, but larger amounts or clots are abnormal and should be reported."
"Though very rare, there's a small risk of perforation, which would need surgery."
"There is also a slight risk of infection or reactions to sedation."
Doctor: "Do you have any questions about the procedure or what we are looking for?"
Doctor: "Could you please summarise back to me the key points to ensure I’ve explained everything clearly?"