Discharge advice following a gastroscopy without sedation
This page gives you information on care following your gastroscopy.
When can I eat and drink?
You can eat and drink from when your clinician advises
You can eat and drink normally after discharge following the time stated above; although we do recommend a lighter diet for today.
Medication
You can take your usual prescribed medications when they are next due unless otherwise stated by the Endoscopist or discharging nurse. For blood thinning medications (anticoagulants) separate advice will be given.
After effects
You may experience the following:
- A bloated, windy feeling – moving around may help to relieve this.
- A sore throat for a short time after the procedure. This normal and should pass within 2 days.
What happens next?
- A report will be sent to your GP.
- The results of the test and any specimens taken are sent directly to your GP. This can take up to 5 weeks
- If a consultant follow up is needed you will receive an appointment letter in the post.
- If a repeat procedure is needed your medical notes will be reviewed by an Endoscopist before you are due to attend. This is because the criteria for repeating procedures may change or be altered as National Guidelines are reviewed and updated. If it is felt that your procedure is no longer required, we will send you a letter in the post.
A member of the nursing team will have explained to you what has been done today and any further tests that you may need.
When to seek advice
Serious side effects are rare. However, if any of the following occur within 48 hours after your gastroscopy, please contact the Endoscopy Unit where you had your procedure.
- Severe pain in the neck, chest or abdomen.
- Vomiting blood or bowel motion turns black.
- Abdominal pain and/or bloating.
- High temperature (fever) or you feel generally unwell.
- Disorientation (feeling lost or confused).
Results
Please contact your GP or consultant directly for your test results as these are not disclosed to Endoscopy.
Contact information
If you have any concerns, please contact the Endoscopy Unit where you were seen or your GP.
Endoscopy Unit
Gloucestershire Royal Hospital
Tel: 0300 422 8222
Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm
Cheltenham General Hospital
Tel: 0300 422 3593
Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm
Cirencester Hospital
Tel: 0300 421 6294
Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm
Stroud Hospital
Tel: 0300 421 8073
Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm
Out of hours, please contact NHS 111 for advice:
Tel: 111
If you think you require immediate medical attention, please phone 999 or go to your nearest Accident & Emergency Department.
Feedback
To help the Endoscopy Department understand what is important to you and how we can improve our service, we would appreciate if you would take the time to complete a feedback survey.
All responses will be anonymous and any information provided will be used sensitively and stored securely.
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