What does the patient do during an endoscopy?

Patient preparation:

Before the procedure, the patient will be given instructions on how to prepare, such as:

- Fasting for a specific amount of time before the procedure to ensure the stomach and intestines are empty.

- Avoiding certain medications or supplements that could interfere with the procedure.

- Arranging for someone to drive them home after the procedure, as they may still be under the effects of sedation.

During the procedure:

- The patient will be asked to lie on their side on an examination table.

- An intravenous (IV) line may be inserted into a vein in the patient's arm to administer sedatives or medications during the procedure.

- The doctor will insert the endoscope into the patient's mouth and gently advance it through the esophagus, stomach, and into the small intestine.

- The endoscope has a small camera on the end, allowing the doctor to visualize the lining of the digestive tract and look for any abnormalities.

- During the procedure, the doctor may use the endoscope to:

- Take biopsies (small tissue samples) for further examination in a laboratory.

- Remove polyps (small growths) or other abnormalities.

- Stop any bleeding or perform other therapeutic interventions.

- The patient may feel some discomfort or bloating during the procedure, but this typically resolves once the endoscope is removed.

After the procedure:

- The patient will be monitored for a period of time to ensure they are recovering well from the procedure and the effects of the sedatives have worn off.

- The doctor will discuss any findings from the endoscopy and recommend further treatment if necessary.

- The patient may experience some soreness or discomfort in their throat or abdomen, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. They may also be advised to follow a special diet for a short period to allow their digestive tract to heal.