OGD (endoscopy) under general anaesthetic

ripplyuk

Thanks for the replies. I just wish I could speak to the anaesthetist beforehand. I've managed to have blood tests in the past using Emla or Ametop gel (which I prefer because it works really fast). My problem is that I sometimes faint if I even think about a needle going in. They might possibly get a needle in my arm but never into my hand! The gas induction is just easier for all involved.

Also, I've just had a big molar tooth extracted yesterday and I'm worried it's going to be really painful to open my mouth wide. They said they'll cancel it if I'm not able to, but I've been waiting for so long for this procedure, I don't want that to happen.

ripplyuk

Just had it done this morning. It was so much better than the first time! The anaesthetist was so nice and all the staff were very understanding. I was a bit of a mess when I went in, couldn't stop crying and panicking but they give me some gas and that's all I remember until I woke up in the recovery room. No sore throat at all, just a slightly uncomfortable feeling in my stomach, probably from the biopsies they took but it's nothing to worry about.

Unfortunately, I have to get another one done in three months time, but it's already been arranged that it'll also be done under general anaesthetic and I won't be frightened at all next time.

Scrapaholic

I do feel sorry for anyone having a fear of injections . I had two endoscopies just with throat spray as one of my fears is not being in control or aware of anything . It did look ,from where I was lying , about the size of a garden hose ! I had biopsies done too. Everyone is different but I had no sore throat or stomach afterwards . After one of them I was at the pub quiz that evening . I hope never to have another and I hope yours is not too bad .