You’ve finally gone to a gastroenterologist about your heartburn, or ulcers, or a general feeling that something is not quite right with your stomach. In order to get a look at what’s going on, your GI doctor wants to perform an endoscopy, also called an upper endoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or EGD. This means they want to take a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached and put it down your throat to examine the upper part of your digestive tract.
If you’ve never had an endoscopy before, it can be scary because you don’t know what to expect. To make you feel as comfortable as possible, here are the answers to 5 frequently asked questions about endoscopy procedures.
Can You Brush Your Teeth Before an Endoscopy?
Sure, as long as you don’t swallow anything for 6-8 hours before your procedure. Digestive Health Centers of Dallas understands the compulsion to brush your teeth before a medical professional works in the vicinity of your mouth. It’s why you always want to brush your teeth before you have your semiannual dental checkup. If you feel the need to brush your teeth, go for it! Just be sure to spit!
What Can You Eat the Day Before an Endoscopy?
The day before your endoscopy, you should be able to eat whatever you want. However, you should have nothing to eat or drink for 6-8 hours before the procedure’s scheduled start time, depending on your doctor’s instructions.
What do You Need to do Before an Endoscopy?
Before you undergo an endoscopy, make sure to discuss your medical history and medications with your gastroenterologist. If you take any blood thinners (including aspirin) or medications for pain, diabetes, or blood pressure, you may need to stop taking your medicine for a period of time before your endoscopy. As mentioned above, you will need to refrain from eating for 6-8 hours before your procedure.
Will I Be Asleep During an Endoscopy?
No. You will receive either an IV sedative to help keep you comfortable and relaxed during the procedure and/or you may be given a numbing solution or spray for your throat.
Are Endoscopy Procedures Painful?
Absolutely not. You will be anesthetized before the procedure, either by an intravenous sedative or a topical numbing agent. You shouldn’t be able to feel anything during the procedure, and if you do feel something, you will be able to alert your doctor.
I hope this article has helped to alleviate some of your fears about undergoing an endoscopy procedure. If you have any other questions, please ask your treatment provider! Give Digestive Health Centers a call to schedule your endoscopy procedure today.