This procedure is a real nightmare for many. People are afraid of a long tube that must be inserted into the esophagus. They are also afraid of the sensations at the time of diagnosis. But there are certain rules under which this procedure will not seem so intimidating. Today we will talk about how to prepare for gastroscopy. The article will give recommendations and tips that turn this type of diagnosis into a normal procedure.
What is esophagogastroduodenoscopy?
This is such a research method in which the doctor examines the esophagus, stomach and duodenum with a special device. The examination is carried out using an endoscope.
This method is optimal compared to others, and also effective, since it can be used to detect gastric cancer in the early stages. In addition, during this examination, the doctor can detect an ulcer, erosion, polyps on the walls of the stomach, which cannot be seen with an ultrasound scan. Next, we consider how to prepare for gastroscopy, as well as what can and cannot be done before the procedure.
What troubles in the body can be detected as a result of gastroscopy?
Using this method, the doctor can detect the following diseases or dangers in the body:
- tumors;
- various ulcers;
- bleeding;
- infections of various types;
- inflammatory processes.
When performing such an examination, a qualified doctor can reveal those problems that cannot be detected by ultrasound or X-ray. Also in this case, he can take a tissue for a biopsy, remove polyps or conduct an examination and eliminate the cause of bleeding. How to prepare for gastroscopy correctly, read below.
Rules for preparing for this examination method
Now we will consider in detail the question: “How to prepare for gastroscopy? What can be used before the procedure? ”
1. Preparation for this type of diagnosis should not begin right in front of the cabinet door, but 1 day before.
2. To the question: "How much can not be eaten before gastroscopy?" The answer is 8 hours before the procedure.
3. On the day of the examination, you can drink a glass of ordinary still water. But be sure to warn the doctor about this.
4. Before gastroscopy, you must not smoke 3 hours before the examination.
5. If pregnancy is present, then the doctor should also be in the know. He also needs to know about the pathology of the lungs or heart.
6. Before the procedure, remove dentures (if any), contact lenses or glasses.
7. Before the diagnosis, you need to empty the bladder.
8. If you are taking drugs that lower the acidity of the stomach, then on the day of gastroscopy, you must exclude their use.
How to alleviate the condition when examining the stomach?
Now we describe the nuances of behavior and give tips on how to properly prepare for gastroscopy:
1. To reduce sensitivity and remove vomiting or seizures, rinse your mouth with a local anesthetic solution prior to examination. He is given in the office for gastroscopy.
2. In order for the tube swallowing procedure to be successful and without any oddities, you need to completely relax and take a deep breath. So the hose easily penetrates the esophagus.
3. The psychological moment is important. A person should tune in to a positive examination outcome. Immediately at the time of the procedure, it is advisable to think about something good. It is possible and even better to close your eyes so as not to see the tube.
4. It is necessary to listen to the doctor’s comments. If he asks you not to make any movements, relax and calm down, try to fulfill his requirements. Then everything will end quickly and easily.
What do you need to take with you on the procedure?
Now we will consider how to prepare for gastroscopy of the stomach, that is, what things and documents you need to take with you to the hospital.
1. A medical card and data on the results of previous examinations.
2. Passport.
3. The towel.
4. A sheet or blanket.
5. Wet wipes.
6. Shoe covers.
7. Money.
Also pay special attention to your clothing. It should be spacious, not constraining movements. Tight belts, ties and tight-fitting blouses will not work. You should lie on the couch and not feel uncomfortable with the wrong clothes. And you also need to tune in a good mood, come in a great mood and not be afraid of anything. There is no need to wait more than half an hour under the cabinet door. After all, besides you, more than one person will undergo this diagnosis. So that extraneous sounds that will be heard from the office do not scare you, come 5 minutes before the start of your reception.
Is the procedure dangerous or safe?
How to prepare for gastroscopy, now you know. It's time to find out how safe this diagnostic method is.
Such a procedure should be performed by a qualified specialist who has experience in such matters. Therefore, before gastroscopy, you should ask how competent the doctor is and whether he should be entrusted with his health.
If everything is in order, then such a procedure is considered completely safe and does not give any complications.
But there are different situations, and you should know for what symptoms after the diagnosis you need to urgently call an ambulance:
- if there are severe abdominal pains;
- a person continuously coughs;
- increased basal temperature;
- there was nausea and even vomiting;
- there were chest pains.
If at least one of these symptoms is present, you must urgently call emergency care. Because these signals can indicate internal bleeding or even rupture of the esophagus.
Now you know how to prepare for gastroscopy, and also figured out what complications may arise after this examination method.
Sensation and further actions after the procedure
1. For some time, you may feel a numb tongue, sore throat, tickle. Burping air may appear.
2. It is necessary to eat food 2 hours after gastroscopy, when all unpleasant sensations cease.
3. If the doctor took a biopsy, then within 48 hours the use of hot food is prohibited.
4. The doctor gives the results of gastroscopy 10 minutes after the examination. If you took a biopsy, then its result will be ready only after 3 days. When the results are in your hands, you can safely go to a specialist for further treatment.
Now you know how to prepare for gastroscopy, what you can do and what absolutely can not be taken before the procedure. You also learned about possible complications after gastroscopy.