I had one today. I was pretty apprehensive before hand. I had the spray on the back of the throat. The procedure is uncomfortable but not painful. I did find myself gagging etc. The spray makes you think you can't swallow but in reality you can. 
pverall I didn't find it as bad as what I thought it was going to be. I'd describe it as uncomfortable but not painful or severe. For me I found that trying to remain calm, understanding that you can breath and can swollen although it feels strange. And although uncomfortable isn't painful. You do gag, and burp but that's all normal. 

I had one today. I was pretty apprehensive before hand. I had the spray on the back of the throat. The procedure is uncomfortable but not painful. I did find myself gagging etc. The spray makes you think you can't swallow but in reality you can. 
pverall I didn't find it as bad as what I thought it was going to be. I'd describe it as uncomfortable but not painful or severe. For me I found that trying to remain calm, understanding that you can breath and can swollen although it feels strange. And although uncomfortable isn't painful. You do gag, and burp but that's all normal. 

Thanks everyone who has posted here. I read them all before I had a gastroscopy today, and my experience was similar to Rich1175.

I was most worried about constant gagging, since I'm pretty bad with even just a covid test. I decided not to have sedation. The throat numbing spray was almost the worst bit, causing gagging and retching. Once the tube was in, I retched from time to time but the staff were very kind and reassuring and distracted me with funny conversation. I would compare the experience with when you're being really sick and frequently retching with nothing coming up. It's nasty but bearable for a couple of minutes. 

Overall I would say yes it is a nasty experience, but not unbearably so. You will be OK. 

I went through an endoscopy today. I read this forum with all the horror stories and opted for sedation. Two nurses tried both arms & hands but neither could find a vein so I was left with no option but to go for the throat spray.

Looking back now I'd definitely choose that option again. Yes it is really uncomfortable but it's over in about 3 minutes so just keep telling yourself that. You can't really swollow but you know it'll be over really quick. For me the procedure itself wasn't anywhere near as bad as I expected. If I needed another for any reason I'd certainly go with the throat spray again and would advise my family to do the same.

To be feeling myself half hour later it was worth putting up with some discomfort. For me it's just mind over matter and with some slow & steady breathing through my nose I found it acceptable.