Vyšetření jícnem: Co to je, kdy ho potřebujete a co vás čeká

When you feel persistent heartburn, trouble swallowing, or unexplained chest pain, your doctor might suggest vyšetření jícnem, endoskopické vyšetření horní části trávicího traktu, které umožňuje přímý pohled na jícn, žaludek a počátek dvanáctníku. Also known as gastroskopie, it is the most accurate way to diagnose problems in the upper digestive tract. This isn’t just a quick look—it’s a precise tool that can spot early signs of inflammation, ulcers, or even cancer before they become serious.

Many people confuse gastroskopie, postup, při kterém se do těla vloží tenká, pružná trubice s kamerou na konci. Also known as endoskopie, it enables direct visualization and biopsy of tissues with other tests like X-rays or ultrasounds. But unlike those, gastroskopie lets the doctor see real-time images, take tissue samples, and even treat some issues right then—like stopping bleeding or removing small polyps. It’s not just diagnostic; it’s therapeutic too. If you’ve been told you have acid reflux or Barrett’s esophagus, this is the gold standard for monitoring your condition.

Most people worry about pain, but modern gastroskopie is far less uncomfortable than you think. A local anesthetic sprays your throat, and many patients get light sedation. The procedure takes less than 15 minutes. You’ll feel pressure, maybe a gag reflex, but not sharp pain. Afterward, you might have a slightly sore throat or feel bloated—normal and temporary. What you won’t feel is the fear of missing something serious. That’s the real benefit: certainty.

Who needs this? If you’re over 45 and have chronic heartburn, trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or vomiting blood, you should consider it. Even if you feel fine, regular screening is recommended if you have a family history of esophageal cancer. It’s not a test for the sick—it’s a shield for the cautious.

Before the exam, you’ll need to fast for at least 6 hours. No food, no drink, not even water. If you take blood thinners or diabetes meds, your doctor will give you special instructions. Don’t skip this prep—it’s what makes the results accurate. And yes, you should stop smoking at least 24 hours before. Smoking increases mucus and raises the risk of complications.

Afterward, you can’t drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day. You’ll need someone to take you home. Start with sips of water, then move to soft foods like soup or mashed potatoes. Avoid alcohol, coffee, and spicy meals for 24 hours. Your throat might feel scratchy, but that fades fast.

What you’ll find in the articles below are clear, practical guides on everything related to upper digestive exams. From how to prepare for gastroskopie, to what you can eat afterward, to how it compares to other tests like fibroskopie or endosonografie—you’ll get no-nonsense answers. No fluff. No fear-mongering. Just what you need to know before, during, and after your vyšetření jícnem.