Any tips on getting through a gastroscopy/OGD?

[JoJo]

I have got my first one this week and I am scared! Has anyone got any tips or advice on how to get through this procedure or is it just a case of getting on with it?

I am not too bad with being uncomfortable but my gag reflex is triggered so easily.

[gamesmaker]

Hi JoJo. I was in a similar position a few weeks ago, and posted on this site just like you (search though the earlier questions and you might be able to find my question and the responses, if it is still on line! Not all replies were supportive, but I just decided to ignore the ones I did not like and re-read the supportive ones!!I would say take everything they offer you in the way of medication (I have had 3 now and similarly have a really strong gag reflex). I had throat spray and sedation - and some anti-sickness medication as well, the first time. Tell the nurses and doctors that you are apprehensive so that they are aware - a nurse will always stay at your side - or at least one did at Kings where I had mine. I had banding of varices at the first procedure, but the next two were just to check - that had come as a bit of a surprise to me as I had not realised they would follow up with more OGD's so soon! I now do not need one for 6 months. It is really not as bad as you are fearing - good luck and let me know on these pages how you get on.

[JoJo in reply to gamesmaker]

Thanks. I'll do a search in a mo. I didn't realise they might band straight away if varices are found.

[JoJo]

I found your post and read the replies. Bit reassured and scared in equal measures!

Can I ask, did you have to wear a hospital gown and was the tube put in via your nose or mouth?

[gamesmaker in reply to JoJo]

Hi again JoJo. I was told just to wear something comfortable so I opted for leggings and a T shirt. No hospital gown needed. It might differ between hospitals. They put the tube in via my mouth. I was also not expecting them to band my varices at the first OGD - especially as my hepatologist had said he did not think there would be any to find and it was 'just to check'. However they are gone now so I am pleased they did band them!! The gastroenterologist said that they were trying to get rid of them for good - it was good to hear something positive! I still have one small one but too small to do anything about at present - they will keep an eye on it in 6 months.

[JoJo]

Thanks once again. I will update once I have had it done.

[JoJo]

I had it done this morning without sedation. It was unpleasant but doable. They found one "barely noticeable" varices in my oesophagus which they said doesn't need treatment. No gastric varices but noted "portal hypertensive gastropathy and antral erosions".

So I am unsure whether this is good or bad news until I see the gastro doctor next week. I also have an ultrasound this week to check on ascites.

[gamesmaker in reply to JoJo]

You did well! Good luck with your gastro doctor next week

[SunnySideUpDawn]

Hi JoJo!

I wouldn't sweat an OGD at all—seriously. They will give you throat spray (I highly recommend this) and sedation (again I highly recommend it). You'll technically be awake, but Suuuuuuper calm, and won't remember a thing most likely afterwards!! I was having them once a week for a few months, and in the end I didn't blink. It's no probs at all!

Good luck