A gastroscopy or upper endoscopy is a specialized procedure for examining the upper digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). It is typically performed to diagnose and treat conditions that affect these areas, such as ulcers, inflammation, infections, and cancer.

You may be recommended a gastroscopy in Singapore to investigate symptoms like difficulty swallowing, persistent abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and unexplained weight loss. They can also be used for monitoring certain conditions like Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that can lead to esophageal cancer.

In today’s piece, we explain what to expect after your gastroscopy. Keep reading!

What is the Next Step after Gastroscopy?

Lasting just about 10 to 15 minutes, gastroscopy is a fairly quick procedure. However, you will still need to spend about 30 minutes to one hour as you recover from the procedure. As you contemplate a gastroscopy in Singapore, a question that may constantly be bugging you is; what is the next step after gastroscopy?

It is simple; after a gastroscopy, the next steps depend on the findings. If no issues are found, you can resume your normal activities. If abnormalities are detected, you may be recommended further tests or treatments.

To ensure a smooth recovery and avoid potential complications, you will want to follow your doctor’s advice regarding diet, medication, and rest. In particular, here are a few things you will be advised to not do after a gastroscopy in the first 24 hours if you had the procedure under a general anesthetic or conscious sedative injection;

· Driving or operating machinery

The sedative administered during a gastroscopy can induce drowsiness and impair motor skills. So, it is advisable that you avoid driving or operating machinery post-procedure immediately due to decreased coordination and delayed reactions.

It is important that you follow these recommendations as accidents can occur, and this poses a significant risk to yourself and others. Ideally, it is best to wait at least 24 hours before driving or operating machinery to ensure the sedative has fully worn off and you are back to your normal state of alertness.

· Watching young children alone

Taking care of young children may seem light but it isn’t advised especially within a few hours after your gastroscopy in Singapore. The sedative can cause dizziness and drowsiness, effects that may impair your ability to supervise young children effectively.

In fact, you may struggle or not be able to respond quickly to their needs or ensure their safety. That said; please have another adult present to assist with childcare duties until you have fully recovered. You should make timely arrangements to avoid situations that would leave you as the sole caregiver for young children to prevent accidents or neglect due to impaired judgment or physical ability.

· Signing legal documents

The sedative used during your gastroscopy in Singapore can also impair your judgment and decision-making abilities. As you probably now understand, this is most likely to leave you prone to making errors or misunderstandings when signing legal documents.

Ideally, you may not be fully aware of the implications of what you are signing something which may cause legal issues later on. It’s best to avoid signing any important documents until the effects of the sedative have completely worn off. If you have to sign legal documents, please seek assistance from a trusted individual.

· Drinking alcohol

Alcohol can interact with the sedative. You do not want anything like this to happen as the alcohol may have its effects and lead to excessive drowsiness or other complications.

Combining alcohol with a sedative can be dangerous and may prolong the recovery process. So refrain from consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours after the procedure to allow the sedative to fully metabolize and avoid any adverse reactions.

· Taking sleeping tablets

Similar to alcohol, sleeping tablets can intensify the effects of the sedative. As is the case with alcohol, this too may lead to increased drowsiness and difficulty waking up.

So, it’s best to avoid sleeping tablets for the first 24 hours after the procedure to ensure a safe and smooth recovery. Instead of sedatives, opt for natural sleep aids or consult with your healthcare provider for alternative options if necessary.

Do you get Results from a Gastroscopy Straight Away?

A gastroscopy is fairly quick so after your procedure, it is natural to wonder whether you will get the results from the gastroscopy right away. Here’s what you need to know;

After a gastroscopy, you don’t usually get the results right away. Typically, you’ll receive your results, including any biopsy findings, within 2 weeks. During this wait period, it is important not to panic if your results take longer as delays don’t necessarily indicate a problem.

If you’re concerned about the wait, feel free to contact the hospital or your GP for an update. When you do receive your results, a specialist will explain them to you.

It’s a good idea to have someone with you for support during this discussion. If you’re diagnosed with stomach cancer, the news can be overwhelming.

However, you’ll have a team of specialists supporting you through your diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This team will include a clinical nurse specialist who will be your main point of contact throughout your journey.

The Bottom Line

The next steps after your gastroscopy in Singapore will depend on the results of your assessment. There is no need to panic though as the specialists who will be helping you with the procedure will have everything under control.

If you’re worried about anything whether before or after your gastroscopy in Singapore, be sure to share it with your gastroenterologist. A good provider will be willing to address any concerns you might have to make the procedure smooth and productive in the end.

Arrange for your Gastroscopy in Singapore Today!

Were you recommended a gastroscopy in Singapore? We are fully equipped to help with the procedure. Also, our very skilled and friendly staff will be happy to address any concerns you may have and see to it that the procedure is done in the best way possible. To learn more, please schedule an appointment with us today at;

Alpine Surgical Practice – Colorectal Screening | Colonoscopy | Piles & Haemorrhoids Surgery | Gallstones Removal

MOUNT ELIZABETH (ORCHARD)

3 Mount Elizabeth #14-06

Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre

Singapore 228510

+65 6322 7323

+65 8875 0080

+65 6602 8086

PARKWAY EAST

319 Joo Chiat Place #04-07

Singapore 427989

+65 6589 8160