Endoscopy with sedation
- You are given intravenous sedation → you sleep during the endoscopy.
- No discomfort or nausea when the scope is inserted.
- Procedure time: 5-10 minutes.
- Monitored by the endoscopist and the anesthesiologist throughout the procedure.
Notes after the procedure
- Rest in the recovery room for 20-30 minutes until fully awake.
- You may feel mild bloating from the air insufflation during the scope; this is normal.
- Do not drive, operate machinery, or sign important documents within 6–12 hours after sedation.
- Resume eating and drinking as directed by your doctor.
Endoscopy without sedation
- You remain fully awake and may feel nausea, discomfort or a gagging sensation when the scope is inserted.
- A throat anesthetic spray may be used to reduce discomfort.
- Procedure time: 5–7 minutes.
- You may leave the endoscopy room right after the procedure ends.
Notes after the procedure
- Do not eat or drink for 30 minutes after the scope so the throat anesthetic wears off.
- You may have a mild sore throat for a few hours; this is normal.
- You can resume normal activities and are allowed to drive (if no sedatives were used).