Hi I have been having stomach problems for as long as I can remember. I am having a Endoscopy camera down tomorrow afternoon. And I extremely anxious about it as I have never had one . Havent slept well at all for the past few days worrying. I am having sedative but I had one a week ago for the camera up (colonoscopy ) and I could still feel pain and was really uncomfortable.
Can I ask for a stronger sedative? 🥴
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Karen4422
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Hi Karen, I had an endoscopy about 4 weeks ago and was extremely anxious, I had sedation and was ok, I remember a gag sensation and that was all, it was over and done with. I know it’s hard to relax waiting for it but honestly it was over in minutes. The colonoscopy I think was worse but I didn’t have any sedation and it wasn’t to bad. Just think positive and it will be all done before you know it. Good luck and take care.
I’ve had a few - I was really nervous too but please don’t be, the sedation really helps, and they are always really nice and friendly and put you at ease! Well each time I’ve had one I’ve always felt this! Xxxx
Hi, endoscopy is nothing like a colonoscopy, trust me I've had 4 endoscopies and 1 colonoscopy. The colonoscopy really hurt even though I was sedated. Endoscopies didn't hurt, yes you gag a bit but there is no pain and it's over before you know it and at least you don't need to take any prep for it! Good luck, Xx
I wish I had chosen sedation. I thought the throat freeze would be better as I didn’t want to have to wait around to wake up afterwards. I couldn’t stop gagging! it was the most horrendous experience of my whole life and it wasn’t over quickly at all.
I had the same experience with the first one I had. Pretty horrible. I now have my MD knock me out completely when I need them (every few years for me my problem is chronic). It does however require a surgical floor and different protocol. I'm in the US and insurance coverage varies , I'm hoping I can keep having the procedure the same way going forward!
Hi Karen, totally understand your concern. I too was very conscious and anxious of the gagging as I have a very sensitive gag reflex, but as you will have an empty stomach, there will be nothing to bring up.
I had the gastroscopy and colonoscopy last week under sedation (minimum dose) and can also confirm that the colonoscopy was the more painful part of the 2. They also sprayed to numb my throat. I remember gagging a few times too but it was finished before I knew it (10 mins in total). On the other hand, I needed gas and air for the colonoscopy as turning the corners were really painful - maybe the sedation had worn off a bit by that point.
The team was very professional and I am sure they are used to people gagging so please don't feel embarrassed. I felt like a right mess but they made me feel at ease. Loved it when they were encouraging me to pass wind when doing the other end.
Deep breaths all the way, it will soon be over. All the best!
To make things worse I have got the date mixed up . I thought my appointment was for today until I checked my appointment letter this morning. To find out its for tomorrow. So more time to stress about it 🙃 . Hopefully it won't be as bad as I am imagine xx
I understand your anxiety. .....I hate all of these......procedures, they sure arent pleasant at all. Ive had all of them.
Last week i had a sigmoidoscopy hidious as im so tender inside. They gave me a mild sedation in my hand & she said dream of Gin & Tonic. Try to focus on afterwards and that the day after tmrow it will be all done. The nurses are so....kind & caring they will make it feel so much better.....and you will feel dreamy
Why not give something like Kalms or Rescue remedy lozenges a go. They are all herbal & very gentle for tender tummies. I always have the rescue remedies before flying, as the stress & anxiety make my tummy play up! The rescue remedies are excellent, but you would really need them today. Good luck tomorrow
Just to let you know. I was fine after all the worrying. It was a bit uncomfortable but over with in no time. They found I have Erosive Gastritis and they took 2 biopsies from middle body. So hopefully I will get some form of medication to help.
Glad you are alright and it went well, did you have sedation or spray ? What is Erosive Gastritis sweetheart ? And is it serious ? When do you get the results ? I was thinking about you today. I have to have some bloods done next Wednesday as my GP wants to see if I have coeliac disease.
Hi Karen I’ve had both and found endoscopy was okish . I did gag a lot but it was over quickly . The nurses and doctor where rally nice and comforting . You will be fine even if you do gag . And hopefully find out what’s wrong .
Hi Karen, firstly try not to worry too much about the procedure - it has been done a zillion times before so the consultants are really experts now. Secondly, you will get an anaesthetic spray on your throat - Mine tasted a bit like bananas but this will numb your throat so that you should not feel the thin tube entering your oesophagus. My consultant was really good and waited until I said I felt really numb before starting. I had the sedation so I felt quite relaxed as the tube was inserted. Tell the consultant you are extremely nervous about the procedure and they will most likely give you the sedation ‘works’ - but make sure you have someone to drive you home. You are asked to lie on your side (Which is quite comfortable and I had a blanket to keep me warm) where a nurse will stay talking to you throughout - just try not to answer (haha). I did not gag once (Honestly, I didn’t) and actually I sneaked a look at the tv screen showing pics of my tummy. The procedure was quick and painless and before I knew it I was in recovery and being given a cuppa. I was very nervous prior to this, so I understand your concerns, but think of it as a positive - the consultant will either find something, in which case, time to sort it out, or will find nothing which will be a relief to you. Will be thinking of you
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