Your Recovery

You had a transnasal endoscopy. Your doctor used a thin, lighted tube that bends to look at the inside of your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum. After you have an endoscopy, the nurse will check for pain or bleeding. The numbing medicine should wear off in about 15 to 20 minutes. You can go home right after the procedure as long you as you aren't having any problems.

This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for you to recover. But each person recovers at a different pace. Follow the steps below to get better as quickly as possible.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Activity

• Rest as much as you need to after you go home.
• You should be able to go back to your usual activities soon after the procedure.

Diet

• Follow your doctor's directions for eating after the procedure.
• Drink plenty of fluids (unless your doctor has told you not to).

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).
• You have trouble breathing.
• You pass maroon or bloody stools.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new or worse belly pain.
• You have nausea or vomiting and can’t keep fluids down.
• You have a fever.
• You have blood in your stools.
• You cannot pass stools or gas.

Watch closely for changes in your health and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.