Is a gastroscopy uncomfortable?
Disease description:
I have a stomach condition myself, and sometimes when it flares up, the pain is so severe that I can't even move and just want to curl up. I'm preparing to undergo a gastroscopy, but I'm very afraid it will be uncomfortable. So, is a gastroscopy really uncomfortable?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Gastroscopy can indeed cause some discomfort for many patients, but this discomfort is usually temporary and can be alleviated through various methods. During the procedure, the doctor will insert a soft, flexible tube through the mouth or nose into the esophagus, and then into the stomach and duodenum to examine these areas.
To reduce this discomfort, modern medical technology offers several options, such as painless gastroscopy. Painless gastroscopy involves intravenous administration of short-acting general anesthetic agents, allowing patients to sleep through the procedure and thus avoid experiencing discomfort. Of course, painless gastroscopy must be performed under the supervision of a professional anesthesiologist to ensure patient safety.
Although gastroscopy may cause some discomfort, most patients can successfully complete the examination by choosing an appropriate method and cooperating with the doctor's instructions. If you feel particularly anxious or concerned about gastroscopy, you can discuss with your doctor to understand the available options and make the decision that is best for you.
