Endoscopy & Colonoscopy - terrified

[faeriesandelves]

Hi I’m having both procedures done one after the other on the same day in a couple of weeks to test for coeliac disease. I’m terrified. I have asked the consultant to be “put out” and he said yes and I reminded him on the way out of the consultation and he said yes oh I’ll give you morphine. Is this sedation or a general anaesthetic? I want to go to sleep then it’s all done and then I wake up. I’ve contacted clinic for clarification but wondered if you all know?

I’ve heard horror stories from people about being held down for the endoscopy even when sedated. I’m going private - if that makes a difference.

thanks.

@Anzena You've just reminded me that I had a numbing spray too. @faeriesandelves Op, take a spare pair of knickers just in case! I was quite sensitive to the phosphate (?) enema & was very careful if passing wind after the procedure and the next day iyswim.

This - I was exactly the same with the Colonoscopy - never felt a thing, woke up not realising I had been asleep. The thought is much worse than the actual thing. I promise.💝

OP-inform the staff doing the gastroscopy about any dental work , especially front, eg crowns, bridges etc if you’re worried about them.
ihad the gastroscopy with just throat spray. Uncomfortable, unpleasant, but got through it ok.

You will be fine with a GA. A very wise choice.

I didn't. So no anaesthetist present . Given fentanyl I think and maybe another drug. Colonoscopy absolutely fine.

Endoscopy was not fine and they stopped. Horrific. Violent retching which no amount of breathing would overcome. They suggested a nasal endoscopy with a smaller camera in a separate procedure.

Like a fool I agreed. No sedative, just anaesthetic numbing spray which constricted my throat. Horrific. I still have flashbacks. It feels like I have been violated.

Now on list for GA procedure with NHS. Earliest slot Jan feb 2026. Which is great as they are looking for cancer.

Everyone is different and I don't mean to scare people. It's just wise to have a spectrum of honest opinion.

I am sure GA is the sensible route to go.

Had both procedures done today under GA. Nurse said it was a wise choice. Nice little sleep and on the way home. Thanks all for reading this post.