"We take the fear out of research and
health science communication."
Chris Atack, Atack Associates

You've been told you need an endoscopy...

...what on earth is that?

Read on to learn about this amazing medical procedure

  • What it is
  • Why it's useful
  • How to prepare for it
  • What to expect

So you're having an endoscopy?

What is endoscopy anyway?

Endoscopy (also known as gastroendoscopy or upper endoscopy) is an amazing, low-risk medical procedure. It lets doctors "look inside" the upper part of your digestive tract.

The digestive tract is the esophagus - the pipe connecting the mouth to the stomach - the stomach, and the upper part of the small intestine.

To look inside you, doctors use a thin, flexible tube with a video camera at one end. With the help of your doctor, you swallow this tube. Sound a bit strange? Maybe, but in fact, it's simple and painless.

When was endoscopy developed?

Endoscopy was made possible by the invention of fibre optics in the 1960s. Fibre optics are tiny, flexible tubes that carry a light beam or video signal.

Scary fact: until endoscopy came along, doctors had to actually "open" patients up with surgery to see inside them. Those days are long gone.

Why do some people need endoscopy?

Doctors may suggest an endoscopy when you have:

  • Difficulty or pain when swallowing
  • Stomach pain
  • Suspected ulcers
  • Bleeding

How common is endoscopy?

Almost 159,000 people had this procedure between 1997 and 2001, according to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Is it dangerous?

Endoscopy is a very low-risk test. Only one in every 1000 patients has problems.

Does it hurt?

Endoscopy doesn't hurt. Some people find it uncomfortable.

How long does endoscopy take?

Usually, about 15 minutes. Afterwards, you will be watched for at least one hour, or until your doctors are sure you're ready to go home.

Getting ready

What should I tell my doctor before endoscopy?

Your doctor needs to know about :

  • All the medicines you are taking. This includes prescription medicines, herbal remedies and over-the-counter drugs.
  • Any drug allergies
  • Any illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease or lung problems.

Should I take my medicines before endoscopy?

Your doctor will tell you if you should stop or cut back on medicines before endoscopy. It's a good idea to write your doctor's instructions down. That way, you'll remember exactly what you should do.

Check your instructions a few days before the procedure. You may need to stop taking some medicines a day or two before endoscopy.

Can I eat before endoscopy?

Your stomach should be completely empty when you have an endoscopy. This is so doctors can see the inside of your digestive tract clearly. It is also important for safety reasons. Vomiting during endoscopy can be very dangerous.

Usually, you shouldn't eat or drink anything for six to eight hours before the procedure. This includes water, candies, snacks and breath mints. Your doctor will tell you exactly when to stop eating and drinking.

What clothes should I wear?

Get comfy! Wear loose, comfortable clothing and low-heeled shoes. Don't bring jewelry or valuables with you. For the actual procedure you may be given a hospital gown and slippers.

How long will I be away from work?

An endoscopy only takes a few minutes. However, you'll be given a sedative to relax you, and a local anaesthetic to block pain. These will make you drowsy. Because of this, plan to take the rest of the day off.

Before endoscopy you should:

  • Read this brochure
  • Follow your doctor's advice about taking medicines
  • Stop eating or drinking when your doctor tells you (Usually six to eight hours before your test)
  • Arrange for someone to take you home

The day of your endoscopy

Can I drive the day of the procedure?

Not a good idea! Get a friend or family member to drive you to the hospital or clinic. You won't be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. If you take a taxi or public transport home, you must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Can a family member be with me?

Only medical staff are allowed in the room during the endoscopy. However, a family member can be with you in the recovery room, where you'll rest after the procedure.

Where will the procedure take place?

Endoscopy usually takes place in a special room in a hospital or clinic. Health care workers sometimes call this room an endoscopy suite. The room will have a couch for you to lie on. It will also contain the special equipment used to do endoscopies.

A step-by-step look at the procedure

What happens during endoscopy?

When you are brought into the endoscopy suite, you will be asked to lie on your side on the couch. You will be given a sedative, probably through a needle in your arm. This won't hurt. You should only feel a pinprick.

When you're relaxed, your doctor will give you a local anaesthetic. This will numb your throat and prevent pain. It will also block your gag reflex.

Then your doctor will ask you to swallow. As you do, he will gently guide the thin tube used in endoscopy down your throat.

Swallowing the tube is usually simple. It is very thin and flexible. You may not even feel the tube being inserted.

Because it is so thin, it will not block your breathing at all. When the tube is in place, it doesn't hurt. However, some people find it uncomfortable.

Will I feel the endoscope in my stomach?

No. In fact, you probably won't feel much during endoscopy. Many people sleep through the procedure.

What am I supposed to do?

Just lie still and relax. Don't try to talk or move around. Breath deeply. Sleep if you can.

What if something goes wrong?

Don't worry! Problems are very rare with endoscopy. If something unexpected happens, your doctors can deal with it.

Will it hurt when they take the endoscope out?

You may not even feel it. Many people don't even realize the procedure is over until their doctor tells them.

My endoscopy is over - now what?

How long before I can leave the hospital?

You can go home after an hour or two. The sedative you've been given will "slow you down" for the rest of the day. You shouldn't go to work, drive, operate machinery or do anything that requires you to be alert until the next day.

How will I feel afterwards?

You'll feel drowsy and weak. You may also have a mild sore throat.

Or, you may feel bloated or "gassy." That's because air is sometimes pumped into the stomach during endoscopy. If you do have gas, you can usually relieve yourself by belching.

These symptoms should disappear by the next day.

What symptoms should I tell my doctor about?

After endoscopy, tell your doctor right away if you develop:

  • Fever
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Chest, stomach or throat pain
  • Unusual or serious discomfort

Can I take my usual medicines after my endoscopy?

Your doctor will tell you when you can start taking the medicines you usually take again.

When will I get my test results?

Check with your doctor. Most people get their results a few days after the procedure. These results will be explained to you. Feel free to ask questions if you don't completely understand your results.

  Back To Top Contact Us