1. Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before the gastroscopy.
2. Remove all removable dentures before the gastroscopy.
3. Wait at least 1 hour after the gastroscopy before eating. Sip water first to make sure your swallowing reflex has returned. 

I. What is gastroscopy?

Gastroscopy involves inserting a flexible electronic endoscope into the stomach to transmit images of the digestive tract onto a screen, allowing direct observation of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Painless gastroscopy uses intravenous sedatives to keep the patient sedated during the procedure. 

II. What is the purpose of this examination?

1. Do not eat, drink, or take any medicine for at least 6 hours before the gastroscopy.
2. The physician will explain the procedure and ask you to sign the “Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Treatment Consent Form.”
3. You need to urinate before the procedure and remove any removable dentures.
4. Inform your physician in advance if you have drug allergies, a history of glaucoma, heart or lung disease, or if you are taking anticoagulants, to reduce the risks of allergic reactions or bleeding.
5. If you wish to request a self-paid painless gastroscopy, please inform your physician. You need to complete a chest X-ray and electrocardiogram before the procedure, and the painless gastroscopy can only be performed after passing the anesthesiologist’s evaluation.

IV.  How is the examination procedure conducted?

1. Before the gastroscopy, you will be given anti-gas drops (Gascon) to hold in your mouth for 1–2 minutes without spitting.
2. The staff will spray anesthetic into your throat. Please hold it for 1–2 minutes without spitting.
3. During the examination, you will lie on your left side and hold a mouthpiece to prevent biting the endoscope tube.
4.  The physician will slowly insert the endoscope through your mouth into your stomach. Please take deep breaths and relax during insertion. When the tube reaches your throat, follow the instructions to swallow. If you feel nauseous, deep breathing can help ease the discomfort.
5. The gastroscopy usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, but the duration may vary depending on its purpose. 

V. What are the precautions after the examination?

1. If you experience abdominal pain, vomiting, or any discomfort after the examination, please inform the medical staff immediately.
2. After the examination, the physician will assess whether you can eat. If approved, wait one hour, then take a small sip of water. If there is no choking or discomfort, you may start eating. You may also rinse your mouth with water to help remove the anesthetic quickly.
3. A sore throat may occur after the examination, but usually disappears within 2–3 days. You can rinse your mouth with saline or cold water to ease the discomfort.
   
4. Patients who undergo painless gastroscopy usually wake up within 5 to 10 minutes. Common effects include dizziness and drowsiness. Driving and tasks requiring focus are not recommended on that day.

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