Is it normal to have a sore throat after undergoing a gastroscopy?
Dec 27, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Gastroscopy involves inserting the gastroscope through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. During this process, the gastroscope may cause friction, stimulation, and pressure on the mucous membrane of the throat, resulting in throat pain. Additionally, to better visualize the internal structures, a certain amount of air may be introduced into the gastrointestinal tract during the examination to expand the lumen, which can also cause discomfort in the throat area.
Generally, the throat refers to the pharynx, and it is normal to experience a sore throat after a gastroscopy. The detailed explanation is as follows:
During a gastroscopy, the gastroscope is inserted through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. During this process, the gastroscope may cause friction, irritation, and pressure on the mucous membrane of the pharynx, resulting in throat pain. Additionally, to better visualize the internal structures, air may be introduced into the gastrointestinal tract to expand the lumen, which can also cause discomfort in the throat. Furthermore, during the procedure, patients may experience reactions such as nausea and vomiting, causing frequent contractions of the throat muscles, which can further aggravate throat irritation. This pain is usually temporary and varies in severity from person to person, generally subsiding gradually within a few hours to several days.
Prior to undergoing a gastroscopy, it is important to communicate sufficiently with the doctor, understand the precautions during the examination, and try to relax in order to reduce anxiety during the procedure. After the examination, attention should be paid to diet, avoiding spicy and irritating foods, reducing irritation to the throat mucosa, and promoting recovery of the throat area.
