These days, with frequent deliveries, instant foods, and stimulating meals, more and more people are experiencing heartburn and bloating. Gastrointestinal diseases like gastritis, stomach ulcers, and reflux esophagitis often have almost no symptoms in their early stages, making them easy to overlook. If you are considering a gastroscopy in the Sihung Janghyeon or Janggok-dong area, we will explain the signs that indicate a need for the examination, the procedure, and preparation steps in order.
Are These Symptoms Just Simple Indigestion?
Many people dismiss heartburn or bloating as simple digestive discomfort. However, if symptoms like those below recur, it could be a sign of conditions such as gastritis, stomach ulcers, or Helicobacter pylori infection.
- Frequent heartburn or persistent bloating after meals
- Repeated instances of poor digestion
- Heartburn becoming more frequent and the intervals shortening
In particular, Helicobacter pylori is deeply related to stomach cancer, yet it often goes unnoticed because most people have no subjective symptoms. If symptoms recur, it is advisable not to delay examination.
How Gastroscopy is Performed
Gastroscopy is an examination where an endoscope with a special camera is inserted through the mouth to directly observe the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Its advantage is the ability to visually check for abnormalities such as inflammation, ulcers, and tumors in the mucous membrane. If you are concerned about pain, you can choose a sedative endoscopy to undergo the procedure comfortably. However, if you have chronic diseases or are elderly, a non-sedated endoscopy may be safer, so we recommend discussing it with the medical staff before deciding. If you are curious about the procedures before the examination, you can check them in advance at Examination Guide.
Conditions Confirmed with a Single Examination
The main conditions that can be confirmed with gastroscopy are as follows:
- Gastritis, stomach ulcers, esophagitis
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- Early-stage stomach cancer, esophageal cancer
If an abnormal area is found during the examination, a biopsy can be performed on the spot to quickly establish a diagnosis and treatment plan. Early detection is the starting point for ensuring timely treatment.
How to Determine the Examination Cycle
| Target | Recommended Cycle |
|---|---|
| Age 40 and older | Once every two years as part of the National Health Screening |
| Family history of stomach cancer, frequent heartburn, vomiting, abdominal pain | Consult with medical staff regardless of age |
At Sungmo Best Internal Medicine, we guide patients on the examination cycle according to their health status and symptoms, and we comprehensively check gastrointestinal health by conducting health screenings, including ultrasound and blood tests, in addition to endoscopy.
Preparation and Precautions Before Examination
Recently, we have introduced AI-based endoscopic equipment to enhance the precision of image analysis. This method involves artificial intelligence analyzing mucosal images in real-time and simultaneously looking for subtle abnormal findings. Please observe the following before the examination:
- Fasting from the evening before the examination
- If you are taking any medications, consult with medical staff to adjust them
- On the day of sedative endoscopy, avoid driving and get plenty of rest
Continued Management After Examination
Experienced internal medicine specialists directly perform endoscopic examinations, and based on the results, personalized treatment and follow-up care are systematically provided. In a comfortable examination environment and with thorough hygiene management, you can receive gastroscopy as well as colonoscopy and abdominal ultrasound examinations. The interpretation of results and management direction may vary by individual, so please check Clinic Hours Guide before your visit and feel free to consult at a convenient time. Consistent endoscopic examinations are not just about finding diseases, but also a habit that protects a healthy daily life.
If you have questions about gastroscopy, feel free to inquire via chat
Dr. Kim Seonhoo (Specialist in Gastroenterology, Specialist in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) · Medical Staff Introduction · Last reviewed 2026-08-06