Many people have an upper endoscopy to find the cause of digestive problems like stomach pain, acid reflux, or trouble swallowing. During this procedure, the doctor uses a thin flexible tube with a camera to look inside the upper digestive tract. It is a safe test, but rarely, some patients may feel mild discomfort afterward.
This leads to a common question: Is it normal to vomit after an upper endoscopy? Doctor Yuriy Israel at Gastroenterology & Nutrition, P.C. says, “No, it is not normal to vomit. It’s a very benign procedure, and you should not gag once you wake up.”
If you are feeling nauseous after an upper endoscopy and have any concerns, don’t hesitate to contact Gastroenterology & Nutrition, P.C. Our team is here to provide answers and help you feel better.
Why Do Patients Tend to Get an Upper Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is often recommended when patients have symptoms that may indicate issues in the upper digestive tract. This test enables specialists to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum closely.
Upper endoscopy allows specialists to evaluate symptoms that may indicate various conditions, including the following:
- Inflammation
- Ulcers
- Damage to the lower esophagus from acid reflux
- The presence of growths like polyps or tumors
This safe procedure provides valuable insight into the causes of digestive health problems, such as persistent nausea or digestive bleeding.
Does Upper Endoscopy Cause Vomiting or Nausea?
Vomiting after an upper endoscopy is unusual. During the procedure, you are given medicine to help you relax or sleep. Most people only feel a bit sleepy after the procedure.
If vomiting does happen, it is usually mild and goes away quickly. However, if you keep vomiting or feel very sick, it could mean there is an irritation or reaction. Vomiting that does not stop could be a sign to call a healthcare provider to make sure everything is okay.
Overall, mild nausea can be normal, but vomiting that lasts is not typical and may need medical attention.
Possible Causes of Vomiting After an Upper Endoscopy
Reaction to Sedation
Sedatives are medications that are used to put the patient to sleep during the procedure. Certain sedatives have been known to cause nausea after the procedure. According to medical studies, some people feel nausea as the medicine wears off.
Irritation of the Digestive Tract
The endoscope can sometimes irritate the throat, esophagus, or stomach lining. This irritation may cause mild nausea or vomiting, which occurs extremely rarely (usually in <0.1% of cases). However, it usually goes away quickly.
Fasting Before the Procedure
Patients fast before the endoscopy. This may sometimes contribute to feelings of lightheadedness or mild nausea after sedation.
Air in the Stomach
During the procedure, air is sometimes used to expand the digestive tract for a better view. This extra air can cause bloating and a slight feeling of nausea afterward.
Possible Infection
Though very rare, an infection can sometimes develop after an endoscopy. This may cause nausea, fever, or vomiting and should be checked by a healthcare provider if it occurs.
Mild Dehydration
Not drinking water for hours before the procedure can sometimes lead to mild dehydration. Dehydration can make some people feel dizzy or nauseous after the sedation wears off.
Tips for Reducing Nausea and Discomfort After an Upper Endoscopy
Drink Small Sips of Water
Start with small sips of water to stay hydrated and ease your stomach. Drinking water slowly can help prevent more nausea.
Rest for the Day
Make sure to rest after your procedure. Avoid activities like driving or heavy lifting. Resting gives your body time to recover from the sedation.
Eat Light Meals
When you feel hungry, eat light foods like crackers, plain toast, or rice. These foods are gentle on the stomach and less likely to cause nausea.
Avoid Spicy and Fatty Foods
Try not to eat spicy, fried, or acidic foods for at least a day. These foods can irritate your stomach and make you feel worse.
Take Deep Breaths
Taking slow, deep breaths can help relax the body and reduce mild nausea. Focus on breathing in through your nose, holding briefly, and then exhaling slowly
Avoid Caffeine
Caffeine can sometimes make nausea worse, as it is a stimulant. Try to avoid coffee, soda, or energy drinks until you are feeling settled.
Get Safe Endoscopy Services at Gastroenterology & Nutrition, P.C.
If you are worried about getting an upper endoscopy, Gastroenterology & Nutrition, P.C. makes the process easy and comfortable. Our team has experience with endoscopy procedures and takes precautionary steps to ensure your comfort. We understand that you might feel nervous, so we explain each part of the procedure clearly to help you feel calm.
After your endoscopy, we carefully monitor your recovery and provide tips to reduce any discomfort, like nausea or a sore throat. If you need an upper endoscopy or have questions about digestive issues, contact us or visit our clinic in Forest Hills, NY.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I feel bloated after the endoscopy?
Bloating can happen from the air used during the test. This feeling should go away after a few hours.
Q: Can I drive myself home after the endoscopy?
No, you should not drive after the test because of the sedation. You will need someone to drive you home safely.
Q: Is it normal to have a sore throat after the endoscopy?
Yes, mild soreness in the throat is common and usually goes away within a day or two. Drinking warm fluids can help ease any throat discomfort.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not ignore professional medical advice due to the information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.
