Frequently Asked Questions
Private Gastroenterologist in Oxford, Banbury & Aylesbury – Dr Udit Mittal
If you are looking for an experienced private gastroenterologist in Oxford, Banbury or Aylesbury, the answers below may help guide your decision.
1. Who is Dr Udit Mittal?
Dr Udit Mittal is a UK-trained Consultant Gastroenterologist and Advanced Endoscopist based in Oxfordshire. He specialises in diagnosing and treating digestive conditions including abdominal pain, reflux, IBS, iron deficiency anaemia, rectal bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease, polyps and bowel cancer screening.
He provides private consultations, gastroscopy (OGD) and colonoscopy in Oxford, Banbury and Aylesbury.
2. What symptoms should I see a gastroenterologist for?
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Bloating or altered bowel habits
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Difficulty swallowing
- Reflux or heartburn not responding to treatment
- Positive FIT stool test
- Family history of oesophageal, stomach or bowel cancer
Early assessment allows safe and appropriate investigation.
3. Do I need a GP referral?
A GP referral is helpful but not always essential. Many patients contact the practice directly for faster access to specialist assessment.
4. Do you accept private medical insurance?
Dr Mittal is recognised by major UK insurers including Bupa, AXA, Aviva, WPA, Vitality and Cigna. You should contact your insurer before your appointment to obtain an authorisation number.
Self-pay patients are also welcome.
5. How quickly can I get an appointment?
Appointments are typically available within 1–2 days. Urgent concerns such as rectal bleeding, anaemia or positive FIT results are prioritised where possible. Virtual consultations are available.
6. What happens during a consultation?
A detailed history is taken, symptoms are carefully assessed and previous investigations reviewed. A personalised investigation plan is agreed.
Investigations may include blood tests, stool tests, imaging, gastroscopy or colonoscopy, depending on your symptoms.
You will receive a clear written clinic letter summarising diagnosis and management.
7. What is a gastroscopy (OGD)?
A gastroscopy is a camera test examining the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. It is commonly performed for reflux, swallowing difficulties, anaemia and upper abdominal pain. The procedure takes approximately 5–10 minutes and may be performed with throat spray alone or light sedation.
8. What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy examines the large bowel and is used to investigate rectal bleeding, change in bowel habit, positive FIT results, iron deficiency anaemia and family history of bowel cancer. Polyps can usually be removed during the same procedure.
9. Is endoscopy safe?
Yes. Endoscopy is generally very safe when performed by experienced, accredited specialists in regulated hospital settings. All risks are discussed beforehand so you can make an informed decision.
10. Do you perform bowel cancer screening colonoscopy?
Yes. If you have a positive FIT test, previous polyps, strong family history or concerning symptoms, private assessment can be arranged promptly. Learn more about GI cancer screening and prevention.
11. Do you treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Yes. A structured, evidence-based approach is used for IBS and functional gastrointestinal disorders, including appropriate investigations, diet and lifestyle advice, medication and gut-directed therapies where required.
12. Do you manage inflammatory bowel disease?
Patients with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis or microscopic colitis can be assessed and managed privately, including colonoscopy, imaging and medication optimisation.
13. Where are procedures performed?
- Nuffield Health The Manor Hospital, Oxford
- The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury
- The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, Aylesbury
14. Can I have gastroscopy and colonoscopy on the same day?
Yes. Combined upper and lower endoscopy can often be performed in one session under sedation where clinically appropriate.
15. How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
You will receive detailed written bowel preparation instructions, dietary guidance and medication advice. Good preparation is essential for accurate examination.
16. What happens after the procedure?
After sedation you will rest in recovery. Results are explained before discharge and a written report is provided. Biopsy results are usually available within 1–2 weeks.
17. Do you offer second opinions?
Yes. Second opinions are available for persistent symptoms, inconclusive investigations, surveillance advice or advanced endoscopic procedures.
18. How do I book an appointment?
You can call the secretary directly, complete the website enquiry form, email the practice or request a virtual consultation.