Gastroscopy

Disclose Medical History: Inform your doctor about your medical conditions, all medications (including supplements), and any allergies or past reactions. The doctor may check your airway or ask about snoring. Refrain from Eating and Drinking: Fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure, including no food, water, or gum. Consult your doctor if you have diabetes or take medication with food. Arrange Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home post-procedure due to sedation. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until sedation effects wear off. Wear Loose Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose clothing and avoid jewelry to facilitate changing into a hospital gown and ease the examination process. Prepare Necessary Documents: Bring necessary documents, such as referrals and insurance information. Prepare questions for your doctor. Arrive two hours early for registration and pre-procedure checks.

During a gastroscopy, you might feel slight discomfort, such as a gagging sensation or bloating. Post-procedure, throat soreness, mild bloating, or drowsiness from sedation can occur. Risks are rare but can include bleeding, infection, or perforation of the digestive tract. Always discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to the procedure​​ .

Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few hours after the procedure. However, it is recommended to avoid driving and operating heavy machinery on the same day due to the sedation effects. Patients can resume normal daily activity such as driving the next morning. Eating and drinking can also be resumed, typically after the throat numbing wears off, which may take a few hours.

The results of the procedure are typically available immediately, as your doctor will discuss them with you after the examination. In some cases, a biopsy may be taken and sent to a lab for further analysis, which may take a few days. Your healthcare provider will inform you when to expect the results and discuss any necessary follow-up steps.

It depends on your individual circumstances and the reason for your previous gastroscopy. Most patients do not need a repeat gastroscopy for another 2-3 years, depending on the findings of the prior gastroscopy. If there were abnormalities or concerns that require ongoing monitoring, it is possible that you may need to undergo another procedure in the future. Your doctor will discuss this with you based on your specific case.