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Gastroscopy - sedation or not?

telemando
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Hi all.

I have a friend, female, 60, who has a gastroscopy appointment next week, and doesn't know whether she should have sedation, and if she doesn't have it, should she go with someone anyway. She doesn't have any family nearby so I've offered to accompany her if she wants. 

If you've had this procedure please can I have your opinions about whether or not sedation is important, and whether or not she can go unaccompanied. Thanks in advance. 

Parents
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    I would always recommend sedation if you can. I had this kind of procedure several years ago and it was awful. I vowed never again. Then I ran into a situation where I had to do it again or lose the chance to get a scope I needed. Focusing on deep breathing only really does help, but I find this procedure deeply awful and honestly a bit traumatic - deep gagging and coughing and feeling that can't-breathe panic if you forget to focus on the breathing. Definitely can be done if necessary, but would never recommend forgoing anaesthesia.

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    I would always recommend sedation if you can. I had this kind of procedure several years ago and it was awful. I vowed never again. Then I ran into a situation where I had to do it again or lose the chance to get a scope I needed. Focusing on deep breathing only really does help, but I find this procedure deeply awful and honestly a bit traumatic - deep gagging and coughing and feeling that can't-breathe panic if you forget to focus on the breathing. Definitely can be done if necessary, but would never recommend forgoing anaesthesia.

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