An endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used for screening, diagnosing, and treating various conditions. It utilises a flexible tube with a camera to view organs and other internal structures.
While the procedure is often well-tolerated, the period immediately following it is crucial for ensuring a smooth and comfortable recovery. This article explores general post-procedural measures to optimise your recovery and understand what to expect as you return to your daily routine.
General Post-Endoscopy Guidelines
Following an endoscopy, it is common for patients to experience some mild discomfort or a sensation of bloating. This is usually temporary and often subsides within a few hours as any air introduced during the procedure dissipates.
If sedation is administered, it is recommended to avoid certain activities like driving, operating heavy machinery, or making important decisions until its effects have fully worn off. Your doctor will also provide you with a list of guidelines specific to the type of endoscopy you underwent and your health status. This may include diet, activity restrictions, medication resumption, and any potential warning signs to observe.
Type-Specific Post-Endoscopy Care
While general guidelines apply after any endoscopy, the specific recovery experience and care instructions can vary depending on the type of endoscopic procedure performed.
Gastroscopy (Upper GI Endoscopy)
It is common to experience a mild sore throat due to the passage of the endoscope. You might also notice some mild bloating or belching as air introduced during the procedure is expelled. It is recommended to avoid hot or spicy foods for the remainder of the day to prevent further throat irritation. In most cases, you can resume your normal activities within 24 hours, once the effects of any sedation have fully subsided.
Colonoscopy
As air is often introduced into the colon to improve visualisation, most patients experience mild cramping or gas. You will be advised to gradually reintroduce solid foods with light, easily digestible meals. Moreover, take note of any unusual symptoms such as persistent rectal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or fever that do not subside and report them to your doctor immediately.
Bronchoscopy
After a bronchoscopy, a temporary sore throat or cough is common as the airways may be slightly irritated. To prevent aspiration, you will likely be advised to avoid eating or drinking anything until the numbness in your throat from any local anaesthetic has completely worn off. It is also important to watch for any signs of potential complications, such as increasing difficulty breathing or chest pain, and to seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
Cystoscopy
Following a cystoscopy, you might experience temporary discomfort or a burning sensation during urination. It is also common to see a small amount of blood (spotting) in your urine. Increasing your fluid intake is generally recommended to help flush the urinary tract and minimise discomfort. Additionally, monitor any signs of infection, such as a persistent fever, severe pain in your lower back or abdomen, or cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and report these to your doctor.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
The recovery after an EUS largely depends on whether the upper gastrointestinal tract or the lower gastrointestinal tract was examined. Therefore, the post-procedure care will often mirror that of an upper GI endoscopy or a colonoscopy, respectively. You will be given specific dietary and activity modifications based on the approach used and any interventions performed during the procedure.
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
Because ERCP is a more complex endoscopic procedure, some patients may experience temporary abdominal discomfort. In some cases, mild inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) can occur. To ensure your safety, you will be closely monitored for any symptoms such as persistent pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or fever. Most side effects are mild and manageable with prompt care. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and reach out if you notice anything unusual during your recovery.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most individuals recover from an endoscopy without significant issues, it is crucial to be aware of potential warning signs that may indicate a complication requiring medical attention. Prompt management is essential to prevent more serious problems.
Common warning signs include:
- Severe abdominal pain or persistent bloating: While mild discomfort or bloating is common initially, intense or worsening abdominal pain, or significant and persistent bloating, could indicate bleeding, perforation, or excessive air accumulation.
- High fever or chills: A fever above 38°C or experiencing chills can be a sign of an infection that needs prompt management.
- Excessive bleeding or difficulty breathing: Significant or persistent bleeding from the site warrants immediate attention. Similarly, any difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or chest pain should be treated as a serious concern.
- Persistent nausea or vomiting: While mild nausea can occur due to sedation, prolonged or severe nausea and vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down can lead to dehydration and may indicate a complication.
Contact your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms. Early medical attention ensures timely and appropriate care.