Post-Op Instructions
After any procedure at North Shore Gastroenterology, patients receive detailed post-operative instructions to support safe recovery and help manage expected side effects. These guidelines apply to procedures performed at our Westlake and Brooklyn, OH, locations and should be followed carefully to ensure a smooth return to normal activities. Although you will receive personalized instructions at the time of your procedure, the information below provides general guidance for two of our most common tests: upper endoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy. Always contact your provider if you have questions or concerns during your recovery.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
After an upper endoscopy, you will be monitored in the endoscopy recovery area until the sedation begins to wear off. If your throat is sprayed with a numbing agent, do not eat or drink anything for at least one hour. After one hour, start with small sips of water or cool liquids and soft foods such as pudding, soup, or eggs. You may resume a normal diet once you feel comfortable. If no throat spray was used, you may eat and drink immediately.
Mild throat soreness for up to 48 hours is common. Cough drops or warm salt-water gargles may provide relief. A responsible adult must drive you home due to sedation.
For the first 24 hours after your procedure:
• Do not drink alcohol.
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery.
• Avoid sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping medications.
Sedation may affect your alertness, coordination, and concentration for up to 24 hours. Rest is recommended. You may experience temporary bloating or mild cramping from air used during the procedure; this typically resolves within a few hours.
Unless instructed otherwise, you may resume your regular diet and medications once home. Talk with your doctor before restarting blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medications. Most patients receive their procedure results the same day; biopsy results may take several days.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Weakness or dizziness
• Black or bloody stool
• Shortness of breath
• Severe chest pain
• Stomach pain
• Pain with swallowing or difficulty swallowing
Colonoscopy
After a colonoscopy, you must be driven home by a friend or family member, as the sedation will limit your coordination and alertness. It is recommended that someone remains with you for the first 24 hours.
If nausea occurs, your doctor may prescribe medication to ease symptoms.
During the first 24 hours after your colonoscopy:
• Resume a normal diet unless instructed otherwise.
• Avoid driving or using heavy machinery.
• Take any prescribed pain medication or stool softeners.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Rest.
• Do not perform strenuous activities or heavy lifting.
After 24 hours, you may return to normal activities. However, if polyps were removed, avoid heavy lifting, running, or unnecessary travel for several days to reduce the risk of complications.
Complications are rare, but contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest emergency room if you experience:
• Difficulty urinating or moving your bowels
• Black or bloody stools
• Trouble breathing
• Blood or bile in vomit
• Abdominal tenderness
Post-Procedure Recovery Guidance in Westlake & Brooklyn, OH
If you have questions about your post-operative instructions or concerns after your procedure, contact North Shore Gastroenterology at (440) 808-1212 or request an appointment to speak with our care team.
