Gastroenterology - Gastroscopy without Sedation - Post procedure

For some patients sedation is not advised, or in fact this is by choice. Therefore, if your procedure is uneventful, you can leave the department shortly after your procedure and go about your daily routine as normal.

Following your gastroscopy you may experience some mild post procedure complications:

• Sore throat (this can last for 48 hours)
• Mild abdominal discomfort
• Nausea
• Vomiting

These symptoms may be relieved by taking ginger or peppermint tea/juice. Using a hot water bottle, taking paracetamol and/or lozenges’ (if required). Please take all medication as directed on packs.

More severe complications are:

• Persistent/increasing abdominal pain
• Respiratory difficulties
• Failure to pass wind
• Temperature above 38 Degrees
• Vomiting blood
• Severe chest/neck pain
• Difficulty swallowing

 These symptoms are rare and therefore need URGENT medical attention.

You have to remain Nil By Mouth (NBM - no fluids or food) until the time given by the discharging nurse. This is due to the local anaesthetic given prior procedure.

NBM until ____________    

If biopsies have been taken (this will be stated in your report), then you should contact your own G.P. or Consultants secretary 2 to 3 weeks post procedure. No histology results go to the Endoscopy Unit. Any other issues please use the contact details below.

Contact Details

Endoscopy Unit – The Royal Oldham Hospital
Telephone: 0161 627 8513 (Monday – Friday 8am - 6pm)

Endoscopy Unit – Rochdale Infirmary
Telephone: 01706 517547 (Monday – Friday 8am - 6pm)

Endoscopy Unit – Fairfield General Hospital
Telephone: 0161 778 2554 (Monday – Friday 8am - 6pm)

NHS Direct – 111 (24 Hours)