What happens during an upper endoscopy?
Before your doctor performs an upper endoscopy, he or she will explain the procedure in detail, including possible complications and side effects. The doctor will also answer any questions you may have. • You will be asked to wear a hospital gown and to remove your spectacles and dentures. • A local anaesthetic (pain-relieving medication) may be applied at the back of your throat. • You will be given a pain reliever and a sedative intravenously (in your vein) that will make you relaxed and drowsy. • A mouthpiece will be placed in your mouth. • You will lie on your left side during the procedure. • The doctor will insert the endoscope into your mouth, through your oesophagus (the “food pipe” leading from your mouth into your stomach) and into your stomach. Most procedures take 15 to 20 minutes.
