Most endoscopies are routine and carried out safely with minimal disruption. The majority of patients recover without issue, and most symptoms, if they appear, are mild and temporary.
Common endoscopy side effects include minor discomforts like a sore throat or bloating. These usually pass within a day. However, a small number of patients may experience uncommon complications that require medical attention.
Recognising what’s normal and what isn’t can help you avoid unnecessary worry while making sure you don’t miss early signs of more serious concerns. If anything feels unusual, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for advice.
What side effects are considered normal after an endoscopy?
Sore throat or mild hoarseness
Sometimes, the endoscope irritates the throat slightly during insertion. This may cause a scratchy sensation or minor hoarseness that generally improves within 24 to 48 hours.
Bloating or abdominal cramping
Air is introduced into the digestive tract during the procedure to improve visibility. This may cause short-term bloating or mild cramping that settles as your body expels the air.
Feeling light-headed or drowsy
Sedation is commonly used during an endoscopic investigation. Endoscopy side effects may involve feeling groggy or tired for a few hours afterwards while the medication wears off.
Gas, belching or mild discomfort
In some cases, your body may produce gas or belching as it processes the air from the endoscopic procedure. These sensations are expected and not a serious cause for concern.
When should you call your doctor after an endoscopy?
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain: If you develop sharp or persistent abdominal pain that increases over time, it may indicate a rare complication, such as a perforation or inflammation and should be checked promptly.
- Fever or flu-like symptoms: Fever, chills or general unwellness may point to an infection, especially if they appear within a day or two after the procedure. Contact your doctor if these symptoms arise.
- Ongoing vomiting or nausea: If you find yourself unable to keep fluids down or continue vomiting hours after the endoscopic procedure, it may be more than simple irritation and needs medical attention.
- Chest pain or breathing difficulty: While rare, chest tightness or trouble breathing may suggest an aspiration event or cardiac strain. These symptoms should never be ignored and require urgent medical follow-up.
What complications are rare but possible?
Tear or perforation of the digestive tract
In very uncommon cases, the endoscope may cause a small tear in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. This condition may require surgery and typically presents as severe pain or bleeding.
Infection post-procedure
Although the equipment is sterilised, a small risk of infection remains and an endoscopy side effect. Symptoms such as fever, swelling, or unusual discharge should be assessed by your doctor.
Reaction to sedative medication
Some patients may experience unexpected effects from sedation, including confusion, nausea or prolonged drowsiness. These should be reported if they persist beyond the first few hours.
Excessive bleeding after biopsy
If a biopsy or polyp removal was performed, some bleeding is perfectly normal. However, ongoing or heavy internal bleeding is not and may require immediate medical treatment or observation.
How can you lower the risk of post-endoscopy complications?
Follow all pre- and post-procedure instructions
Your care team will give you specific guidelines on how to prepare and recover. This includes when to stop eating, which medications to avoid, and how to rest afterwards.
Be honest about your medical history
Let your doctor know about all medications, supplements, allergies, and any pre-existing conditions you have. This helps them adjust sedation or procedural steps as needed.
Arrange for supervision after the procedure
Even if you feel fine, having someone with you after sedation is important. You may feel weak or groggy, and it’s safer to avoid being alone for at least a few hours.
Don’t skip follow-up appointments
Your doctor will want to discuss your results and ensure your recovery is progressing well. This is also your chance to mention any unusual symptoms you’ve experienced.
FAQs
Feeling faint could be a side effect of sedation, dehydration, or low blood pressure. Sit or lie down, hydrate, and contact your doctor if the feeling persists.
Some medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be resumed only after medical clearance. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
If sedation was used, it’s usually recommended to rest for at least 24 hours before driving or travelling long distances. Ask your doctor before making plans.
Delayed bowel movements can be a normal response to fasting or sedation. However, if you experience bloating, pain or discomfort, speak to your doctor for advice.
Not sure if what you’re feeling is normal?
Some endoscopy side effects are expected and usually fade quickly. But if something feels “off” or continues longer than your care team indicated, don’t wait to get clarification.
People often delay contacting their doctor because they don’t want to overreact or believe the issue will pass. While many symptoms are mild, taking action early can help avoid bigger problems later on.
If you feel persistent discomfort, see changes in your digestion, or simply feel unwell, listen to your body and go for an endoscopic investigation. Getting clarity from a medical professional is always the right choice, whether it confirms nothing is wrong or catches something early.
MEET DR. SUHIRDAN
Interventional Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist
Bsc (Med) | M.B.B.S. (Hons) | FRACP
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