Am due for endoscopy tomorrow morning I feel quite calm about it and prepared to go with throat spray. However there are so many scary stories on here and the web in general. To make matters worse the Consultant who is scoping me is also a colleague! So definitely don't want to freak out.
Any advice gratefully received I will repost with a true account of my experience in a bid to maybe help others.
Hiya,
There are way too many horror stories I agree! I first had an endoscopy procedure last year and had the best experience ever - it was over and done with so quickly I couldn't rate it enough. I then had to have another one done two weeks ago and I didnt have as good an experience - they only sprayed my throat 3 times whereas last time they sprayed about 4-5 times. I mean it was fine a little uncomfortable but again over so quickly that if I needed it done again I would definately have it without sedation.
I suffer with anxiety and have done it twice so anyone can I think it is the build up that is worse in my opinion!
In the 22 years I have known I have Barrett's, I've received a good many scopes, most just with throat spray as the sedation has no effect on me.
I've only ever had one "bad" scope - performed on a Saturday morning by a locum brought in to help clear a backlog. I felt I was on a conveyor belt, rushed in and out and the procedure performed carelessly. He wouldn't have spoken to me if I hadn't asked a question. When I mentioned it to our excellent advanced specialist nurse, she said they wouldn't be using him again. My next scope was by one of our trustees whom I have known for a few years and I was worried but he was excellent.
I just remain calm, concentrate on the breathing, close my eys and think of happy places I have been and know it will all be over in a few minutes (although it can seem like a lifetime) . The worst part for me is as it is removed when I feel I am going to gag or vomit but the scope's then out and I give an almighty burp. (That's normal - to expel the air they've pumped inside you. )
There was a previous thread in this forum where a number of patients described their positive experiences which I have collected to provide in print form for new patients at our local clinics. (Though haven't had time to complete that project yet. )
I am having 1 next week and am definitely not having sedation. Have read quite a few positive feedbacks so I am not too worried.
Thank you Jade for your positive reply. Really helped. The procedure was fine had 5 or 6 sprays of the throat no issues at all, uncomfortable sensation as the scope is passed and could feel it in my stomach and then moving to the duodenum for biopsies. Concentrated on my breathing and all was fine. So glad I went with the spray.
Thank you everyone for your positive and honest replies really appreciated.
Well done! I bet you are feeling elated that you were able to just get up and go afterwards so pleased that you were able to do it without sedation!
I hope you get the results you want.
Jade