🏠 Going Home
What to expect after your procedure:
- You will be observed in recovery for 30–60 minutes after the procedure
- Most patients go home the same day — discharge once awake, comfortable, and able to drink
- You must have someone drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours
- You may feel drowsy, unsteady, or have a mild headache — this is normal and will settle
- Some bloating or gas is common after colonoscopy — walking helps relieve this
Important: Do not drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol, or make important decisions for 24 hours after sedation/anaesthesia.
🗣️ Throat & Comfort
After your procedure, you may experience some temporary discomfort:
- A sore throat or hoarseness is common after gastroscopy — usually settles within 24–48 hours
- Lozenges or warm fluids may help soothe your throat
- Mild abdominal cramping or bloating is normal after colonoscopy
- Passing small amounts of blood with your first bowel movement may occur — this is normal
- If biopsies were taken, you may feel slightly more cramping than usual
Note: If you had a polyp removed, you may notice slightly more cramping or a small amount of blood — this is expected. Contact us if bleeding is heavy or persistent.
🍽️ Diet
Getting back to normal eating after your procedure:
- Start with light, easily digestible meals once your throat feels comfortable
- If you had a gastroscopy: wait until your throat feels normal before eating solid food
- Progress to a normal diet over the following day as your appetite returns
- Stay well hydrated — drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Constipation can occur after colonoscopy — increase fibre intake gradually
- Consider a gentle laxative (e.g., macrogol/Movicol) if needed
🚶 Activity
Getting back to your normal routine:
- Walking: encouraged from the day of the procedure — helps relieve any bloating or gas
- Driving: avoid for 24 hours after sedation/anaesthesia
- Return to work: most patients can return the following day
- Exercise: no restrictions on physical activities after endoscopy
💊 Medications
What to know about your regular medications:
- Resume your regular medications unless your doctor has advised otherwise
- If you were told to stop blood thinners or antiplatelets, wait for your doctor's instructions before restarting
- Pain relief: paracetamol is safe to take if needed
Important: If you were given specific instructions about stopping or restarting medications, follow those exactly. When in doubt, call the clinic.
⚠️ Red Flags
Contact us or seek urgent medical care if you experience any of the following:
- Temperature above 38°C that does not settle with paracetamol
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain
- Heavy rectal bleeding (more than a few teaspoons) or passing large blood clots
- Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe throat pain or difficulty swallowing that worsens after 48 hours
- Black, tarry stools
- Swelling or severe pain in the abdomen
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact us immediately:
📞 03 9421 1166