Why can't endoscopic ultrasound be performed painlessly?

Endoscopic ultrasound is generally not performed under sedation if the lesion is located in the upper esophagus.

Endoscopic ultrasound is a medical device that combines ultrasound technology with endoscopic examination. It allows direct visualization of the internal cavity through endoscopy while simultaneously performing real-time ultrasound scanning, providing detailed sonographic images of the various layers of the gastrointestinal tract and surrounding adjacent organs. It is particularly valuable for diagnosing and managing protruding lesions in the esophagus and stomach. Under normal circumstances, patients are administered sedatives, antispasmodics, and defoaming agents before endoscopic ultrasound to prevent complications during the procedure. However, if the lesion is located in the upper esophagus, sedation is usually avoided. This is because water is typically introduced during the endoscopic ultrasound procedure, and sedation may suppress the patient's cough reflex, increasing the risk of coughing, aspiration, or even suffocation, thus posing significant procedural risks.

After experiencing gastric discomfort, patients should undergo appropriate examinations under a physician’s guidance to identify the underlying cause and receive timely, targeted treatment to prevent serious complications.