What are the risks of an endoscopy?

While endoscopy is generally a safe procedure with low risk of complications, there are some potential risks associated with it. These risks include:

* Bleeding. During an endoscopy, there is a risk that blood vessels in the esophagus, stomach, or colon may be damaged, leading to bleeding. This risk is increased if you are taking blood-thinning medications or have a bleeding disorder.

* Infection. The endoscope may introduce bacteria into the esophagus, stomach, or colon, leading to an infection. This risk is increased if you have a weakened immune system.

* Perforation. The endoscope may inadvertently puncture the wall of the esophagus, stomach, or colon, causing a perforation. This is a serious complication that may require surgery to repair.

* Aspiration. If you vomit or regurgitate during the procedure, there is a risk that you may aspirate stomach contents into your lungs, leading to pneumonia. This risk is increased if you have a decreased gag reflex or are sedated during the procedure.

* Allergic reaction. Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the contrast dye or medications used during the procedure. This reaction can range from mild symptoms, such as rash and itching, to more serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing and swelling of the face, throat, and tongue.

* Death. In rare cases, endoscopy can lead to death. This is most likely to occur in people who have underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease or lung disease.

The risk of complications from endoscopy is generally low, with serious complications occurring in less than 1% of cases. However, it is important to be aware of these risks before undergoing the procedure. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you in detail and will take steps to minimize the chance of any complications.