TEE

[AMC5]

I am scheduled to have a TEE next week and just wondering how hard this test will be.  The doctor has assured me that I wont feel anything, or remember anything afterwards.  Would just like your opinion on how patients tolerate this test.  I am having it to rule out ASD because of a few episodes I have had that we're not sure if possible TIA.  Thank you.

[AMC5]

They didn't use any gargle stuff.  They did spray my throat, and that stuff was gross, but didn't use any gargle.  I guess they did have to use alot of the versed even during the procedure.  Which is fine with me, as long as I didn't have to know what was going on. Yeah, I am very glad that it all turned out ok.  I still have more tests and other doctors to see, but hopefully this was the worst of it.  I had several episodes of some strange symptoms and we're trying to figure out what the cause was- tia,complex migraine, or something else.  From things I've read on different forums,  I might never know.  Just doing what I can to make sure everything is ok.  Thanks again for your replies.

[Momto3]

GREAT NEWS!!  Versed is a great sedative for these types of procedures.....How was the gargle stuff?  Would you say that was the worst part?  Again, congrats on the great news!!

[AMC5]

Thank you for all your support and encouraging words for me about having the TEE.  I had the procedure this morning.  I was so nervous and scared.  But once they started the Versed, I was out!  They did also give me Fentanyl.  They said they had to give me more meds during the procedure, but I don't remember any of it, thank goodness.  I don't have an ASD either, which was the reason for checking this out.  Again thanks for the encouragement!

[jan]

Wll, the yucky spray and the gargle solution I had to swallow and it was so hard to make myself do it. lol  I laughed and told the my cardio on top of it all you had to make me swallow it. Yuck!

I was given demerol and something else.  Sorry, I don't know.  I have had a procedure before with just demerol and that was enough.

Like I said the anticipation and anxiety waiting is the worse!


Good luck!

[AMC5]

Thank you for your comments and reassurance.  I am still very nervous, but know I'll get through it.  The doctor is giving me versed.  I'll just be glad when it is over!  Thanks again.

[Momto3]

Hi again! I also had versed (and demerol).  You will be just fine!!  I didn't feel a thing and there was no discomfort afterward.  I totally understand your apprehension. Just remember, the gargle stuff is the worst part.  Once you're past that, the worst is behind you.  Good luck.  Let us know how you make out.

[tessa0825]

no TEE for me but I have had many EGDs as the comparison the Dr. speaks of...With mine I dont gargle but I have to swallow it and yep its nasty, they say it is BANANA flavored...HA! and it is the worst part of the test....You dont feel anything and feel good when you wake up...Ive never even had a sore throat afterwards...Im dilated and biopsied while he is in there, dont feel anything....My Dr uses versed and either demerol or morphine in my IV....Good luck...

[jan]

Fortunately for you your dr is going to use concious sedation. So, I agree with momto3, the spray and the stuff you have to gargle with is the worse part!  Oh, and of course the anticipation!

[Momto3]

I had a TEE a couple of years ago, and I was terrified!  The procedure itself went smoothly. Presumably, you will first get the I.V. and the EKG patches.  Next, I remember they sprayed some numbing stuff in my throat (yuk), and then I had to swallow this awful tasting stuff (anesethic - for numbing your throat). After that they started the IV medicine and the next thing I knew I was awake with no wires, no tube.....Try and relax. Where are you having the procedure done?  You should do great!!!

[CCF-M.D.-RCJ]

AMC5,

Thanks for the post.

This is a very easy test to tolerate and manage.  The vast majority of patients say that the worst part is either (1) the i.v., or (2) the numbing gargle medicine (viscous lidocaine).  In the past year, I've only had 2 patients say that the TEE itself was worse than the gargle.

As far as the patient is concerned, this test is basically the same as an EGD (a scope to look at the stomach).  Many more people have this test than a TEE, and it too is a quite safe test.  I bring it up because you may have a friend who has had one.

All tests carry inherent discomfort and risk, but most people tolerate a TEE just fine.  People who sometimes have difficulty include those who have received radiation therapy to the chest (usually for cancer) or those with a history of esophageal disease.

Good luck.