Risks

An endoscopy is usually a safe procedure, and the risk of serious complications is very low. Possible complications include: an infection in a part of the body the endoscope is used to examine this may require treatment with antibiotics piercing or tearing (perforation) of an organ, or excessive bleeding you may need surgery to repair tissue or organ damage; sometimes a blood transfusion may also be needed Sedation Sedation is usually safe, but it can occasionally cause complications, including: feeling or being sick a burning sensation at the site of the injection saliva or, rarely, small particles of food falling into the lungs, triggering an infection (aspiration pneumonia) irregular heartbeat or low blood pressure breathing difficulties When to seek medical help Contact your GP if you notice any signs of infection in the area where the endoscope was inserted. Signs of infection include: redness, pain or swelling a discharge of fluids or pus a high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above Other signs of apossible complication after having an endoscopy include: black or very dark-coloured stools shortness of breath severe and persistent abdominal pain vomiting blood chest pain Contact your GP or visit your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department immediately if you notice any of these signs and symptoms.