How uncomfortable is a gastroscopy?

Is a gastroscopy painful? Generally It is not painful or uncomfortable. Infrequently, a gastroscopy may cause discomfort, often due to trapped wind and bloating, though severe discomfort is rare. Typically, these sensations subside quickly afterward. Additionally, a sore throat may occur but usually resolves within 24 to 48 hours.

A gastroscopy is a diagnostic examination aimed at inspecting the interior of your throat, esophagus (food pipe), stomach and beginning of the small intestine known as duodenum, collectively known as the upper section of your digestive system. It serves to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Following a gastroscopy, you can leave the hospital once you feel sufficiently recovered. If sedation was administered, it’s essential to have someone accompany you home and remain with you overnight. It’s advised to rest quietly at home for the initial 24 hours after sedation. Before discharge, a doctor or nurse will provide a detailed explanation of the gastroscopy results.

Following esophageal dilation, patients may occasionally encounter a mild sore throat. However, the majority of patients do not experience any additional symptoms post-procedure and can typically resume soft diet the following day and normal diet after two to three days.

Though it’s a minimally invasive procedure, esophageal dilation can result in bruising and soreness. Some patients may feel discomfort during the procedure itself, with lingering pain while swallowing in the days following.

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