I had a gastroscopy 4 years ago with throat spray and entonox. By the time the entonox took effect I couldn’t have cared less what they did to me, but that sense of relaxation wore off very quickly, and when the endoscope was removed I gagged very badly and panicked. I was therefore very nervous at having a second gastroscopy last week. The nurse suggested I have sedation, which I was more than happy to do. Having a canula inserted in my arm was no worse than having a blood test - just a small scratch, and done. When I was given the sedation I didn’t feel sleepy and was fully aware of what was happening, but the whole experience was completely bearable. I felt a bit uncomfortable but didn’t gag at all and the whole process was over in seconds. (Nothing wrong, as it turned out, other than a small hiatus hernia and reflux). For anyone considering their options, please don’t hesitate to go for sedation. 

I should have added that I had few after effects from the sedation. I was fully aware after the procedure but had to spend an hour in the recovery room afterwards, while my blood pressure was monitored and other observations made. I was driven home, felt a bit sleepy later in the day, but otherwise everything was normal. 

I should have added that I had few after effects from the sedation. I was fully aware after the procedure but had to spend an hour in the recovery room afterwards, while my blood pressure was monitored and other observations made. I was driven home, felt a bit sleepy later in the day, but otherwise everything was normal.