An endoscopy is a common medical procedure using a flexible tube (endoscope) to examine internal organs, typically the upper gastrointestinal tract (esophagus, stomach, and duodenum) or the colon. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, recovery is usually quick, though temporary side effects are expected immediately afterward. Understanding the typical post-procedure experience helps set proper expectations for the hours following the test.
Waking Up: The Effects of Sedation
Upon waking, immediate feelings relate to the sedative medication administered during the procedure. Patients commonly experience grogginess, feeling “slow,” or slight confusion as the medication wears off. This residual effect impairs coordination and judgment, even if the person feels mentally alert.
A responsible adult must drive the patient home, as operating a vehicle is strictly prohibited for 24 hours. Sedative effects, including drowsiness and mild dizziness, dissipate over the first few hours. However, the full recovery of judgment and reaction time takes a complete day. Patients are monitored until they are stable and comfortable enough for discharge, usually a few hours after the procedure.
Physical Discomfort and Short-Term Recovery
In the hours following the endoscopy, patients may notice several normal and temporary physical sensations. If an upper endoscopy was performed, a mild sore throat or scratchiness is common due to the endoscope’s passage. This minor irritation can be soothed with warm liquids, throat lozenges, or soft foods.
Abdominal pressure, bloating, or gas pains are also frequent side effects. This occurs because air or carbon dioxide is used to inflate the digestive tract for better visualization. The associated cramping or discomfort usually resolves within a few hours or, at most, within 24 hours, as the gas is naturally expelled.
Once the sedative effects have passed, patients should start by sipping water or clear fluids. They can gradually advance to light foods like toast or crackers as tolerated. For the first 24 hours post-sedation, restrictions extend beyond driving. Patients must avoid operating heavy machinery, drinking alcohol, or making major financial or legal decisions. Resting for the remainder of the procedure day is highly recommended, though most individuals can return to light, normal activities the following day.
When to Contact Your Doctor
While mild discomfort is an expected part of the recovery, certain symptoms are not normal and require immediate medical attention. Any instance of severe, worsening abdominal pain, especially if it feels different from mild cramping or gas, should be reported to the healthcare team promptly.
Signs of a potential complication include:
- A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher or chills.
- Persistent, severe vomiting.
- Significant bleeding, such as passing large amounts of blood in the stool or vomit, or having black, tarry stools.
- Difficulty swallowing that persists beyond the initial recovery period.