the Necessity of Gastroscopy in Gastrointestinal Health - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Understanding the necessity of gastroscopy in gastrointestinal health is a multifaceted issue that often depends on individual symptoms, medical history, and the results of preliminary examinations. Your situation, characterized by persistent gastrointestinal discomfort, occasional abdominal pain, and a sensation of fullness or pressure, warrants careful consideration of whether a gastroscopy is necessary.

Gastroscopy, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a procedure that allows a physician to visually examine the upper gastrointestinal tract using a flexible tube equipped with a camera. It is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as gastritis, ulcers, and tumors, as well as for obtaining biopsies when necessary. The decision to perform a gastroscopy is typically based on the severity and persistence of symptoms, the results of non-invasive tests, and the physician's clinical judgment.

In your case, the fact that you have experienced significant improvement with medication suggests that your symptoms may be manageable without immediate invasive procedures. The medications you mentioned, "胃利贊" (likely a proton pump inhibitor) and "胃治饋" (possibly an antacid or another form of gastrointestinal medication), are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid and alleviate symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gastritis. If your symptoms have improved significantly, it may indicate that the underlying issue is being effectively managed.

However, the presence of ongoing symptoms, such as a feeling of fullness, occasional abdominal discomfort, and the sensation of something being "stuck" in your chest, raises some concerns. These symptoms could suggest that while the medication is helping, there may still be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. For instance, the sensation of fullness could be related to delayed gastric emptying, which can occur in conditions like gastroparesis or functional dyspepsia.
Your doctor’s advice to monitor your symptoms and only consider a gastroscopy if they persist or worsen is a reasonable approach. It allows for a conservative management strategy while keeping the option of further investigation open. If your symptoms return or if you experience new symptoms such as significant weight loss, persistent vomiting, or gastrointestinal bleeding, it would be prudent to revisit the idea of a gastroscopy.

Regarding your concerns about dizziness and the feeling of blood not circulating properly, it’s essential to consider that these symptoms may not be directly related to your gastrointestinal issues. Dizziness can stem from various causes, including dehydration, anxiety, or even issues related to the cardiovascular system. Since your electrocardiogram (ECG) was normal, it may be beneficial to explore other potential causes of your dizziness with your healthcare provider.

In summary, while gastroscopy is a valuable tool in diagnosing gastrointestinal conditions, it is not always necessary if symptoms are manageable with medication and lifestyle changes. Continuous monitoring of your symptoms, combined with open communication with your healthcare provider, will help determine the best course of action. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation, which may include a gastroscopy to ensure that any underlying issues are adequately addressed.