Endoscopy

Posted By Debby on October 22, 1998 at 14:18:20:







I have been diagnosed with Gerd.  I am currently taking Previcid for the acid reflux.  I also have pain in my upper right side (under rib).  I had a sonogram for gall stones which was negative.  The doctor explained that it could be that the gall bladder was not eliminating properly.
1)   I am currently on oral contraceptives.  I read that sometimes, use of oral contraceptives can cause gall bladder problems.  Is this true?  
2).  I am scheduled to have an endoscopy.  I am against being sedated for this procedure.  According to what I have read, conscious sedation is widely used preferred in the U.S. but not necessary in Europe.  If I refuse to have sedation ( because I have arrythmias due to a heart murmur) can they still do the test?
3)  Lastly, I raised my bed 2 inches.  When I go higher than 2 inches, my arms fall asleep in middle of night.  Is this an indication of a circulation problem, or could it be normal for circumstances of elevation?
Your answers to all three questions would be appreciated.