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Post-endoscopy pain
I had an endoscopy 2 days ago that was negative, but the doctor took two biopsies of my esophagus about two-thirds of the way down. Since the procedure, I've had a dull ache at the bottom of my sternum and, when I swallow food or liquids, pain as the food passes through the lower half of my esophagus and, most significantly, right before it empties into the stomach. The pain is similar to what I'd feel if I swallowed, say, a hard crust of bread without properly chewing it. Is this caused by the food or liquid irritating the biopsy sites or is it general soreness from the procedure? I'm somewhat concerned that maybe this is indicative of some kind of damage to the esophageal wall or to the valve or sphincter between my stomach and esophagus. I read that “trouble swallowing” for a day or two is a common side effect, but nothing about pain further down. I was told I could go back immediately to my normal diet, but am now afraid to eat anything but mushy food until this resolves. Anyone have a similar experience? I’d appreciate any insight.
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As a retired nurse, and also someone who has had two upper endoscopies, I would tell you that the lining of your esophagus is a mucous membrane with nerve endings that of course hurts when wounded. But if it is more than just a small discomfort when you swallow some food, my advice would be to call the doc who did the proceedure and ask if this is expected or of concern. Who ever did the proceedure needs to answer follow up questions and either put you at ease, or bring you in for a check. Any bleeding seen? Because that would be something to speak to him about if he or she did not tell you to expect this. Never be afraid to contact the doc. with concerns.
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3 Reactions@cudabinacontenda
The sensation that you're feeling could very well be caused by the procedure itself but I would call your Gastroenterologist immediately and inform them of your symptoms. Sometimes complications do occur following endoscopy procedures such as a perforation, which would require treatment.
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1 ReactionI have this procedure done every two years. This last time I had it done in April 23 and had it redone in June 23 for the reasons you described above. Please see your doctor and go from there.
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1 ReactionMcosby, thanks for sharing your experience. May I ask what the June 23 follow-up showed?
Hi @cudabinacontenda, did they find the cause for your symptoms? I am experiencing the exact same symptoms and can’t find any information on it. More than 24 h post procedure, I’ve called the clinic to seek the advice. They ran through the normal questions related to post procedure. I don’t have any of those symptoms ,I.e. fewer, blood, chest pain etc..) Therefore from their perspective I am okay. Now that another day has passed and symptoms haven’t improved- I am getting more concerned. I understand that this sensation isn’t right. Also I noticed that hot &warm liquid is the most unpleasant when it lands in my
upper stomach (that light burning sensation- with every sip that lands in my upper stomach.) this was my second endoscopy in 2x months duration, I didn’t have any symptoms from the first procedure. I
Hi, what were your latest findings in regards to these symptoms?
It will probably go away in a week. I had a mild sore throat after my EGD.
Did they take biopsies? I recently had an upper endoscopy and colonoscopy with 8 biopsies taken. I had pain with warm liquid and at the left side of my abdomen and sphincter. This disappated after a couple of weeks. I don't know how many instruments were inserted, but I felt that the pain was in response to the procedure itself. It went away on its own. Call your doctor if it seems unusual for you. He can advise you best. You won't be the first one to ask about this, I'm sure. Good luck.
Did they take Biopsies?
Thank you. Yes they did take biopsies. (I had 14x biopsies taken in total.5x from duodenal bulb;1st & 2nd part) then 3x from the stomach, and then 6x from oesophagus.