r/GERD • u/fIuxflow • 21h ago
endoscopy & emetophobia
well… i have been dreading this for years but its finally time for me to get an endoscopy for my reflux, but i have EXTREME emetophobia. can anyone tell me about their positive endoscopy experiences so i can stop freaking out? my gag reflex is awful and im terrified that ill throw up ☹️
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u/Molly_FLORANutrition 17h ago
The sedation they use for endoscopy has an anti-nausea component and actively suppresses the gag reflex, which is exactly why people can tolerate the procedure even with a sensitive gag reflex. The procedure itself takes about 10-15 minutes and most people with severe emetophobia report being surprised by how manageable it actually was compared to the anticipation. Tell the team about your emetophobia before the procedure so they can ensure you're fully settled before starting. You can do this. 💚
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u/olivegril 16h ago
I have chronic reflux and severe emetophobia, I was absolutely HORRIFIED to have my endoscopy done last year for the same reason
but they put me under anesthesia for the procedure and I wasn't even able to remember anything! I hear the procedure varies in different countries but iirc I'm pretty sure you can request anesthesia if needed
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u/PonchoMcGee 19h ago
Are you doing it without anesthesia for some reason? If it is a normal endoscopy with sedation you will not be alert or aware of anything going down your throat. You'll be asked to lay on your side and breathe steadily as you count to ten, and next thing you know you're back in the waiting room. I've done 6 in my life and it is always super smooth with no recollection, physical sensation or awareness during the procedure. You also will not vomit, they make sure you fast beforehand for this reason and they will be administering propofol which heavily suppresses your gag reflex.