Gastroscopy and duodenoscopy via the mouth is a method used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Before the endoscopy, the patient will receive a local anesthetic by swallowing a clear, thick liquid similar to wet starch, followed by a spray of anesthetic into the throat. For patient safety, these are the correct practices to follow before and after the examination.
Preparation Before the Examination
- Get enough rest the night before the examination.
- Refrain from drinking water, food, and all beverages for at least 6-8 hours before the examination to prevent the risk of aspiration of food and water into the airway while swallowing the endoscope down the throat.
- If you have dentures, remove them if possible, or inform the doctor if you have any loose teeth.
- Inform the doctor about any chronic diseases, regular medications, allergies, especially to anesthetics used in tooth extraction, and any past surgical history (if any).
- Arrive at the hospital about 30 minutes before the scheduled appointment to allow time for preparation.
- If you need a medical certificate or reimbursement documents, inform the staff before the examination.
- Do not bring jewelry or valuables to the hospital to prevent loss.
- Wear loose and easy-to-change clothing for convenience.
- Have a relative accompany you to and from the hospital for safety.
During the Examination
- Upon arrival at the examination room, you will meet the nursing staff who will take care of you throughout the procedure.
- You will receive a local anesthetic by swallowing and a spray to numb the throat to prevent pain during the examination.
- Some patients may receive an injection to relieve anxiety about the procedure.
- During the examination, the patient must lie facing the doctor. The doctor will insert the endoscope through the mouth, which has a light at the tip. The doctor may ask the patient to swallow to help the endoscope enter the esophagus. Then breathe normally and do not hold your breath. If saliva accumulates, let it flow out and do not swallow as this may cause choking and coughing.
- Next, the doctor will examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum until the procedure is complete, which takes about 5-10 minutes.
After the Examination
- You may feel like there is phlegm stuck in your throat or a thick sensation inside the throat, which is caused by the anesthetic effect. This feeling will last about 15 minutes to half an hour and will gradually disappear after the anesthetic wears off.
- While the throat is still numb, spit out saliva and do not eat or drink to prevent choking.
- After the numbness subsides, start by sipping water to test if swallowing is normal, then you can eat. It is recommended to start with soft foods to make swallowing easier and avoid very hot foods.
- For some patients who received an injection and may still feel drowsy, rest in the recovery room under close nursing care. Once you are fully conscious and the recovery nurse deems it safe, you will be transferred to the ward or allowed to go home.
- Some patients staying in the hospital may need to continue fasting according to the doctor’s treatment plan.
- For patients who can go home, follow the doctor’s instructions and take medications and food as prescribed.
- To ensure continuous and effective treatment, attend all follow-up appointments as scheduled by the doctor.
