The upper gastrointestinal system includes the esophagus which is a pharynx tube that leads to the stomach, connecting with the duodenum which is the beginning of the small intestine. Gastroscopy is a procedure that is carried out by a Gastroenterology specialist and a well-trained assistant. It aids in the diagnosis of many problems relating to difficulty of swallowing, stomach pain or bleeding, ulcers or tumors.
Please regard the following information:
First – What to do prior to a Gastroscopy?
Abstain from food and drink for at least eight hours.
The medical team would want to know if you suffer any symptoms in the lungs or heart or have any other medical condition that might require careful attention both before and after the Gastroscopy.
Bring all your current medications especially those for the heart, blood pressure and diabetes. Patient must take heart and blood pressure medicine in the morning but not the diabetes medication because patient will be fasting.
Kindly inform your doctor of your medications, especially aspirin or NSAIDs (blood thinners).
Inform your doctor of any medication allergy you have or if you have an allergic reaction to some medications especially antibiotics or pain medicine.
Other means of transportation must be provided because patient is not permitted to drive post- Gastroscopy (if given sleep inducing medicine).
Do not bring valuables to the hospital.
Second – in the Endoscopy Unit:
Kindly get to the unit on time.
In case you are given sleep inducing medication, please inform the unit staff of the person accompanying you home.
You will be asked to sign a special form that indicates your consent and understanding of the Gastroscopy.
You will then be provided with special garments and assigned a bed until it is time for the Gastroscopy.
A nurse might place a needle in one of your veins to use when needed (e.g. administer sedative).
Third – What to expect during and after the Gastroscopy?
You will be moved to the endoscopy room.
A local anesthetic will be administered to the throat so that no pain will be felt when the scope is inserted.
The doctor might inject you with a sedative prior to the Gastroscopy.
The best way to lessen the problems caused by the scope is to relax and breathe through your nose.
In case you are asleep (after sedative) you will be required to stay in the unit no less than an hour until you are fully aware.
Your throat might feel a little sore and you might be a little gassy, but this is normal after a gastroscopy and will disappear after a short time.
If you are given a local antistatic throat spray or a sedative injection then you are recommended to stop eating and drinking for two hours afterwards.
You must not drive or operate heavy machinery or make important decisions on that day, rest at home is preferable.
You have to visit the emergency department immediately if you have notice severe side affects such vomiting for 24 hours straight.
If you have any further enquiries, please ask your doctor the nursing staff.
You can call for more information:
2520088 - Ext#2221 or 2223