What should you pay attention to after undergoing a gastroscopy?

May 15, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
After a gastroscopy, it is generally necessary to monitor the examinee's symptoms, withhold food and fluids, and ensure adequate rest. Gastroscopy involves using an endoscope to directly observe pathological changes in the mucosa of the esophagus and stomach, aiding in the detection of conditions such as reflux esophagitis and atrophic gastritis. After the procedure, the examinee's symptoms should be monitored, including stool characteristics and排气情况 (gas passage).

After undergoing a gastroscopy, general注意事项 include monitoring the patient's symptoms, fasting and abstaining from fluids, and ensuring adequate rest time. The details are as follows:

1. Monitor the patient's symptoms

Gastroscopy uses an endoscope to directly observe pathological changes in the esophageal and gastric mucosa, helping to diagnose conditions such as reflux esophagitis and atrophic gastritis. After the procedure, it is important to monitor the patient’s symptoms, including stool characteristics and gas passage, to assess whether there is any injury within the digestive tract.

2. Fasting and fluid restriction

Local anesthesia is administered during the procedure. After completion, the anesthetic agents may not yet be fully metabolized. Additionally, because the endoscope passes through the mouth and may cause friction against the oral mucosa, localized congestion and swelling can occur. Therefore, food and fluid intake should be avoided for a short period post-procedure to prevent vomiting or choking due to swallowing.

3. Ensure sufficient rest

Adequate rest after the examination helps accelerate the elimination of anesthetic substances from the body. Patients should avoid strenuous activities that could increase intra-abdominal pressure and potentially worsen bleeding at injured sites.

In addition, attention should also be paid to bowel movements, patients should avoid working at heights shortly after the procedure, and good oral hygiene should be maintained. If any unusual findings occur during the examination and their nature is unclear, further diagnostic tests may be needed to assist in evaluation.