Endoscopic Ultrasound (Oral): What to Expect At Home
Your Recovery
After you have an endoscopic ultrasound—a test to look for problems in the stomach, liver, gallbladder, and other organs—you will stay at the hospital or clinic for 1 to 2 hours. This will allow the medicine to wear off. You will be able to go home after your doctor or nurse checks to make sure you are not having any problems.
You may have a sore throat for a day or two after the test.
This care sheet gives you a general idea about what to expect after the test.
How can you care for yourself at home?
Activity
- Rest as much as you need to after you go home.
- Ask your doctor when you can drive again.
- You should be able to go back to your usual activities the day after the test.
Diet
- Follow your doctor's directions for eating after the test.
- Drink plenty of fluids (unless your doctor has told you not to).
Medicines
- If you have a sore throat the day after the test, use an over-the-counter spray to numb your throat.
Other instructions
- Do not sign legal documents or make major decisions until the medicine effects are gone and you can think clearly. The anesthesia medicine can make it hard for you to fully understand what you are agreeing to.
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 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have trouble breathing.
- You vomit blood or what looks like coffee grounds.
- Your stools are maroon or very bloody.
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You are vomiting.
- You have new or worse belly pain.
- You have a fever.
- You cannot pass stools or gas.
- Your stools are black and look like tar, or they have streaks of blood.
Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- You do not get better as expected.
Current as of: October 19, 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.
