An endoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to examine the inside of the body. During an endoscopy, a long thin tube (endoscope), is inserted through a small incision in the skin and gently guided into the desired area of the body.

While an endoscopy is generally considered a safe procedure, there is a small risk of complications, such as bleeding or perforation (tearing) of the tissue. Additionally, some people may experience discomfort during the procedure.

Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area where the endoscope will be inserted. Sedation may also be used to help you relax and minimize any discomfort during the procedure.

After the procedure, you may have some mild soreness in the throat or chest. You will be closely monitored until the sedation wears off and then discharged home to rest. Full recovery from an endoscopy typically takes a day or two.

If you have any concerns about the potential pain associated with an endoscopy, be sure to discuss them with your doctor prior to the procedure.

Anxiety during endoscopy

Anxiety during endoscopy procedures is a widely searched topic. Anxiety can impact the outcome of the procedure. Keeping calm and relaxed during the procedure can make the passage of the scope easier and more comfortable.

Know your coping strategy

Being anxious about an upcoming medical procedure is perfectly normal. In fact, research has shown that anxiety levels can have a significant impact on the overall success of the procedure. That's why it's so important to take some time to identify your own anxiety triggers and develop coping strategies that work for you.

While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, some common coping strategies include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualizations.

If you're not sure where to start, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. They can help you develop a plan that will work for you. Finally, remember that you're not alone in this. Millions of people have successful medical procedures every day, and there's no reason why you can't be one of them.

Know more about the procedure

Although endoscopy procedures vary depending on what is being investigated or treated, patients generally have a positive experience when they are well-informed and feel comfortable with the procedure.

Several studies have shown that high levels of patient education/information reduces heart rate and distress during endoscopic procedures, as well as producing positive effects on patient perception, compliance, and procedure-associated anxiety. In other words, the more you know about your endoscopy procedure, the more likely you are to feel relaxed and comfortable during the procedure.

If you are scheduled for an endoscopy procedure, be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have about the procedure so that you can feel as prepared and comfortable as possible.

The ideal method to obtain all of the necessary information is to talk with your doctor (ideally the one who recommended you or will be performing the endoscopy). The consultations might seem a little quick at times, and you may overlook asking some questions, so it's helpful to keep notes of inquiries you come up with while driving there.

Ask about sedation

When having an endoscopy, the majority of people will have some local anesthesia to numb the area where the scope is inserted. However, there is often the option of having some sedation in addition to this.

The aim of the sedation is to make you feel drowsy and a little more relaxed during the procedure, for those who are particularly anxious or worried. The main thing to remember is that you will be fully monitored throughout and there will be someone there to look after you.

Once the sedation starts to wear off, you will probably feel a bit groggy, so it's important to take things easy for the rest of the day.

Comfortable relaxed environment

Prime Surgical Suites provides state-of-the-art endoscopy facilities and services in a comfortable, relaxed environment. We are committed to providing you with the best possible care.

At Prime Surgical Suites, we provide state-of-the-art, cost-effective musculoskeletal surgical care in a convenient and comfortable outpatient setting for patients of all ages. Located in RiverCrest Medical Park, we are the region's first outpatient center focused exclusively on orthopedics. Our physician-led center will help restore your active lifestyle and well-being with compassion and orthopedic excellence.