No special preparation is required for a gastroscopy. You only have to make sure that you do not eat anything for at least 9
hours before the procedure, and that you do not drink anything, including water, for at least 8 hours. If you have difficulty
swallowing your food, or sometimes vomit food residues 4 hour or more after your last meal, please call us. You may need special preparation for your procedure, such as taking Magnesium Citrate or Sodium
Bicarbonate the day before the gastroscopy, or fasting for longer than the prescribed 9 hours.During a gastroscopy, a flexible scope approximately 4 feet long is advanced through your mouth
into your stomach and beyond. This procedure allows us to find out if you have gastritis, ulcers, acid reflux and many other diseases. In most cases, we can give you an initial answer regarding your
problems, and a plan of treatment, as soon as you wake up from anesthesia. Sometimes, if you experience difficulties or pain swallowing your food, we find a narrowing of your esophagus (food pipe) before it
enters the stomach, which explains your problems. In most cases, we can use a special instrument to dilate your esophagus, and give you immediate relief from your problems.
Having a cold or laryngitis does not usually prevent you from having the procedure; also, you should not be worried that your throat will be irritated after the gastroscopy or that your voice will be
affected. This is true even if you use your voice professionally, as a public speaker or performer. If you have any doubt or concerns, please call us at any time. |
