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What are the risks of getting infections from endoscopy?
(February 16, 2010)
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An endoscopy is a procedure that is performed in order to examine the internal structures and diagnose any problem that is in the upper gastrointestinal tract by using a flexible, thin tube that has a camera and light attached to its tip. An endoscopy is primarily done to help identify the causes of any abdominal or chest pain, nausea and vomiting, heartburn, bleeding, swallowing problems and also to identify inflammations, ulcers and tumors. Along with this, it is also used for biopsy where in a small piece of tissue is removed as sample for further testing. The entire procedure including the preparation does not take more than 10 to 15 minutes and is not as painful as it sounds leaving you with a slight discomfort.
You are not allowed to eat or drink anything at least 4 to 8 hours before the endoscopy procedure as any food in the stomach obstructs from getting a clear view of the insides. Also, you are not allowed to smoke or chew gum. You can take medications with a small sip of water for high blood pressure, heart conditions or thyroid conditions. You will be asked to change into a gown and a local anesthetic will be sprayed onto your throat or you may have to gargle with it. A mouthpiece will be attached so that the mouth is kept open throughout the endoscopy allowing you to breathe properly. You lie on your left hand side during the procedure while the doctor gently inserts the endoscope into your mouth through the esophagus and into the stomach.
You are at a higher risk if you are pregnant, have a heart or lung condition, allergic to any medications, have had endocarditis which is an infection of the heart valve or if suffering from a rheumatic heart disease. After the endoscopy, you might feel a little nauseated or bloated along with a sore throat. The risks of getting an infection after doing an endoscopy are rare but complications include abnormal reactions to sedatives, bleeding from biopsy or accidental puncture of the upper gastrointestinal tract which needs to be treated immediately with an open surgery. However, the risk of getting any infection is very low and thus is not a major concern. If you experience any symptoms such as difficulty in swallowing, increased pain in throat, chest or abdomen, vomiting, fever and dark or bloody stools, it is advised that you contact your doctor immediately without any further delay.
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Submitted by M T on February 16, 2010 at 05:26
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