A gastroscopy is the best way of examining your upper digestive tract. No other test matches its ability to visualize the whole lining of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The most important thing to remember is that a gastroscopy is a very safe test. Although any procedure has risks, the risks of a gastroscopy are very rare and should not be a major concern.
The most important tip is to RELAX If you are calm and relaxed the procedure will pass more easily.
Most patients will be sedated for the procedure. This will help you if you are anxious beforehand or if you know you have a bad gag reflex. There are patients who can do a gastroscopy without a sedative. As long as you are calm, focused on breathing and are able listen to the instructions of your treating team, you can do it without a sedative.
The worst part of a gastroscopy would be the gagging, A gastroscopy is NOT painful. The gagging can be controlled by the following steps : 1. Remain calm 2. Remember that the scope will NOT block you breathing. 3. You may feel a chocking sensation at the beginning but it is important to focus on remaining calm and to take a breath. Once you stop holding your breath and focus on breathing, the gagging will diminish greatly
Focus on breathing in and out slowly and deeply While you breath, you can't gag listen to your treating team's guidance
The whole procedure lasts only about 3-5 minutes. When a biopsy is taken, you may feel a tug sensation inside but it will not be painful.
After the gastroscopy
You will need to wait about 30 minutes before the freezing of your throat wears off so that you can drink or eat. If you received a sedative you will need to be monitored for about 1 hour in the recovery room.
You may have a sore throat for 1-2 days after the procedure.
If you develop a fever or severe abdominal pain or if you vomit blood or blackish material (coffee grounds appearance) or if you pass black stools, then you must go to the closest emergency room immediately.