Vigorbuddy | Recovery After Upper Endoscopy: What to Expect | The recovery process after an upper endoscopy can be quite confusing. This article will walk you through what to expect as you recover after your endoscopy procedure and tips.
What is an Upper Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is a medical procedure that involves inspecting the upper gastrointestinal tract using an endoscope, which is a small, flexible tube with a light and lens. The patient usually receives sedation or local anesthesia for this procedure. Recovery time will depend on the type of sedation used during the procedure as well as how long it takes the patient’s body to clear the drugs used.
The endoscope is passed through the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). This allows for direct visualization of these organs. Blood vessels, lymph nodes, and abnormal areas are biopsied (taken for analysis under a microscope) to diagnose certain conditions that may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
An upper endoscopy can be performed using many different types of sedation: oral sedation, intravenous (IV) sedation, or conscious sedation with local anesthesia. Each of these options will produce a different recovery time and Recovery Process.
Endoscopy recovery time can range from a few hours to one or two days, depending on the type of sedation used. Recovery is usually quick and uncomplicated, although it may be uncomfortable for some patients after the anesthesia wears off. Patients who experience discomfort should discuss this with their physician prior to receiving conscious sedation with local anesthesia.
How will you feel after an Upper Endoscopy?
After the sedative or anesthesia drugs wear off, some patients experience nausea and mild headache. These symptoms should subside in a few hours. The doctor will recommend over-the-counter medications to help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by these symptoms. If severe headaches, blurred vision, persistent nausea, or vomiting is experienced, the patient should contact their physician immediately.
How To Eat Post-Endoscopy?
Patients are usually asked to avoid solid foods for at least two hours after oral sedation. Eating too soon can cause nausea and vomiting, resulting in further dehydration or infection. If you received conscious sedation with local anesthesia, your doctor of Upper Endoscopy in Baltimore would recommend that you avoid eating any food until the effects of the drugs have worn off. This can range from four to 12 hours after the procedure.
Preventing Infection:
After an upper endoscopy, it is important that a patient becomes aware of signs and symptoms of infection or complications. Notify your doctor if you have any of the following:
- Temperature above 100 degrees Fahrenheit
- Persistent vomiting
- Persistent diarrhea
- Severe abdominal pain or tenderness
After an upper endoscopy, it is important that the patient takes precautions to avoid infection. They should:
- Rest for several days after the procedure
- Drink plenty of fluids (water is best) while avoiding alcohol and caffeinated beverages
- Avoid smoking and other nicotine products
- Eat a balanced diet, avoiding spicy or acidic foods
In conclusion, it is crucial for patients to follow post-procedure instructions carefully. In order to properly recover from an upper endoscopy, make sure you drink plenty of fluids and take your medications as directed by a doctor or nurse. You can also talk with your physician about any concerns that arise during the process so they may be addressed immediately. Recovering after a procedure like this takes time but following these tips will help speed up the recovery process and reduce discomfort.