Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES): What to Expect at Home
Your Recovery
You had a test called a fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). A thin, lighted tube with a camera was put into your nose and down your throat. The camera recorded as you swallowed. The doctor or speech-language pathologist watched on a screen. The doctor may have taken a small tissue sample (biopsy) to send to a lab for testing.
After the test, your throat and nose may be numb or sore. These things usually go away quickly. You will probably be able to go back to work or your normal routine that same day.
This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for you to recover. But each person recovers at a different pace. Follow the steps below to get better as quickly as possible.
How can you care for yourself at home?
Activity
- Rest as much as you need to after you go home.
- You can do your normal activities when it feels okay to do so. This will likely be the same day of the test.
Diet
- Be careful when you eat or drink if your throat still feels numb.
Medicines
- If you stopped taking aspirin or some other blood thinner, your doctor will tell you when to start taking it again.
- If needed, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new or increasing throat pain.
- You are too sick to eat or drink.
- You have new or worse nausea or vomiting.
- You have bleeding in your nose or throat.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if you have any problems.
Current as of: July 26, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
