Endoscopy for GERD

[dfx08540]

I have had GERD for a number of years now, and am scheduled to have an endoscopy to take a look inside. It sounds easy with the sedation. However, I have some breathing problems during sleep, which are currently being investigated (no diagnosis yet). As I understand, this could cause trouble with the sedation procedure.

My questions:
1. What do you suggest I should do? Have reduced sedation, or no sedation? I have a very strong gag reflex and have fear of vomiting. Even at the dentist, this becomes quite a problem.  Can the gag reflex be largely stopped by sprays? In this case i would be fine. If I have strong gagging reaction, I might get into panic.

2. I have read about capsule endoscopy, which seems to avoid any such problems. Would that be an alternative? When I asked in my doctor's office, they said it is not approved yet; however, I have read that it was approved by the FDA in 2001. This would seem a lot easier for me. What do you think?

Thank you very much for your help!
  

[emom1]

I do the endos and even colonoscopies without anesthesia.  I'd rather be uncomfortable for 15 minutes than sick from the aftereffects of the anesthetics for hours and hours.  I DO take the throat spray.
I gag a bit on endo, but knowing what to expect, it's not that bad.  It doesn't hurt!
For colonoscopies all you have to do is ask the doc to go slowly.  Yeah, we're on an asembly line and I hold things up, but at least I get to watch.

[catspeaks]

I had the endoscopy 2  years ago and was sedated; however, I know someone who had it with minimal sedation and didn't have a problem.  I do know the spray you're talking about, I've had that done at my ENT's office several times when they've scoped my throat.  That my be a possibility for you as well, but I would certainly discuss all these options with your doctor prior to the day of your test.
Good luck!

[selmaS]

Hi...this does sound problematic....I do not know much about the capsule as I have not had it.I know we have members here that have.

U may want to check with other GI drs to see how they could handle a patient with this gag and possible sleep apnea issue.

Get another opinon.and do keep us posted

"selma"