The Anonymous Widower

I Had My Fifth Endoscopy Yesterday And The Fourth Without A Sedative!

After two at Addenbrooke’s in Cambridge, this was my third endoscopy at Homerton in East London.

The most difficult part was not eating for eight hours before and only drinking water for four hours before.

I have mild anaemia and they were looking for cancer.

Luckily for me, they didn’t find any.

I did however lose nearly a kilo in weight.

Was that the diet or the long walk to the bus, which took me home?

Endoscopies At Homerton

On their information, they sent me, Homerton said they prefer to do endoscopies without a sedative.

I suppose it is more efficient, as Addenbrooke’s told me nearly thirty years ago.

Conclusion

I am certainly not worried about endoscopies and if your doctor says you have should one, make sure they talk you through it sensibly.

Years ago, I was on holiday in Capri and met a party of about six American gastroenterologists, who were horrified, that I had had two endoscopies without anaesthetic.

But then, I think they were more worried about the fees, that the anaesthetist didn’t get.

When Homerton investigated my gallstones, I said I’d be happy to undergo the procedure without a sedative, although, the specialist private surgeon, doing the procedure for the NHS, was accompanied by an anaesthetist. In the end the anaesthetist just stood by, in case he was needed and the surgeon did his first endoscopy without a sedative. He was very pleased with everyone’s performance including mine.

September 13, 2024 - Posted by AnonW | Health | Addenbrooke's, Cancer, Endoscopy, Homerton Hospital, NHS