Can a stomach endoscopy reveal problems in the throat?

Generally speaking, the throat usually refers to the pharynx. Whether a gastroscopy can detect problems in the pharynx mainly depends on the underlying cause and the progression of the condition. If the condition is relatively mild and poses no risk of malignancy, a gastroscopy may not necessarily detect any abnormalities. However, if the condition is more severe and carries a risk of lesions, a gastroscopy can usually provide a preliminary indication of any existing issues. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanation is as follows:

If the patient's condition is relatively mild, with only simple symptoms such as pharyngeal burning or pain, a gastroscopy may not necessarily reveal any abnormalities in the pharynx. Gastroscopy is primarily used to examine the stomach and duodenum, and although the scope passes through the pharynx, it might not accurately detect subtle lesions. It is recommended to timely undergo a pharyngoscopy under a doctor's guidance to enable prompt treatment based on the underlying cause.

However, if the patient's condition is more severe, with issues such as congestive pharyngeal edema, a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, or tumors, a gastroscopy may preliminarily detect possible lesions in the pharynx, but cannot determine the type of lesion. Therefore, upon detecting abnormalities, further examinations such as laryngoscopy and pathological biopsy should be performed as directed by a physician.

It should be noted that prior to undergoing a gastroscopy, consultation with a doctor is necessary to ensure adequate preparation and avoid delays in the examination. After the procedure, it is important to maintain a reasonable diet and minimize vocalization to reduce irritation to the throat.