Last Updated on December 3, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

Getting an endoscopy can feel scary, and knowing how long it takes is key. Patients want to know what happens from start to end.

The endoscopy procedure time changes based on the type and your health. Usually, it takes a few hours from start to finish.

Key Takeaways

• The entire endoscopy process can take a few hours.
• The procedure time varies depending on the type of endoscopy.
• Preparation and recovery times are included in the overall duration.
• Our medical team will guide you through the entire process.
• We provide complete support for international patients.

Understanding Endoscopy: A Detailed Overview

An endoscopy gives doctors a close look at the upper digestive system. It helps find health problems early. This is key for diagnosing and treating many stomach issues.

What is an endoscopy?

An endoscopy lets doctors see inside the upper digestive system. This includes the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. A flexible tube with a camera and light is used. It goes through the mouth to show the inside of the digestive tract.

Common reasons for undergoing an endoscopy

People get endoscopies for many reasons. These include acid reflux, stomach pain, or trouble swallowing. It also checks for infections, inflammation, or bleeding. Doctors use it to find the cause of symptoms and plan treatment.

Types of endoscopic procedures

There are many endoscopic procedures, each for different parts of the digestive system. Here are some common ones:

Procedure	Description	Area Examined
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)	Examines the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine.	Upper digestive tract
Colonoscopy	Examines the entire colon.	Lower digestive tract (colon)
Sigmoidoscopy	Examine the sigmoid colon, the lower part of the colon.	Lower digestive tract (sigmoid colon)

Knowing about different endoscopic procedures helps patients know what to expect. Each one is designed for specific needs. This ensures doctors can make accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.

Pre-Procedure Timeline: Preparation for an Endoscopy

Getting ready for an endoscopy means taking a few important steps. We’ll walk you through what to do before your procedure. This way, you’ll know what to expect and how to get ready.

Consultation and Scheduling

First, you’ll have a meeting with your doctor. This usually happens a few days to weeks before your endoscopy. Your doctor will explain why you need the procedure, talk about any risks, and tell you how to prepare.

It’s also important to tell your doctor about any medicines you’re taking. This includes blood thinners, diabetes meds, and other drugs. Your doctor might ask you to stop or change some of these before the procedure.

Dietary Restrictions and Fasting Requirements

Changing your diet is a big part of getting ready for an endoscopy. Your doctor will give you specific rules about what you can and can’t eat. You might need to stick to a clear liquid diet for a while before your procedure.

Fasting is also key. How long you need to fast depends on the type of endoscopy. Usually, you’ll be told to fast for 4 to 8 hours. For example, if your procedure is at 8:00 AM, you might not eat or drink after midnight.

How Long to Fast Before Endoscopy

Your doctor will tell you exactly how long to fast. It’s usually between 4 to 8 hours. So, if your procedure is at 8:00 AM, you might not eat or drink after midnight.

Type of Endoscopy	Typical Fasting Period
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)	6-8 hours
Colonoscopy	Clear liquid diet the day before, with specific instructions for the morning

“Proper preparation is key to a successful endoscopy. By following your doctor’s instructions regarding fasting and dietary restrictions, you can help ensure a smooth and effective procedure.”

— Medical Expert

As we’ve seen, getting ready for an endoscopy is more than just fasting. It’s about following a detailed plan that includes talking to your doctor, scheduling, and following their advice. By understanding and following these steps, you can help make your procedure a success.

Medication Considerations Before Your Endoscopy

Knowing which medications to keep or stop before an endoscopy is key for your safety. Some drugs can mess with the procedure or raise the risk of problems. We’ll help you understand which ones might be affected and what to talk about with your doctor.

Medications to Avoid Before the Procedure

Some drugs can make bleeding more likely during or after an endoscopy. These include:

• Anticoagulants (blood thinners like warfarin, aspirin, and clopidogrel)
• Antiplatelet drugs (such as clopidogrel and prasugrel)

You might need to stop these medications for a while before your procedure. How long depends on the drug and your health.

Special Considerations for Chronic Conditions

If you have long-term health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, talk to your doctor about your meds. Some drugs for these conditions might need to be changed before the procedure.

For example, if you’re on metformin for diabetes, you might be told to stop it a few days before. This is to avoid kidney problems.

“It’s vital for patients to tell their healthcare providers about all their medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This ensures their safety during the endoscopy.”

A gastroenterologist’s advice

When to Inform Your Doctor About Medications

Tell your doctor about your medications at least 7-10 days before your endoscopy. This gives them time to adjust your meds if needed.

Medication Type	Action Required	Timing
Anticoagulants	Stop or adjust dosage	3-7 days before
Antiplatelet drugs	Stop or adjust dosage	5-7 days before
Diabetes medications	Adjust dosage	Discuss with doctor

Always follow your doctor’s specific advice on medications before an endoscopy. They will give you personalized guidance based on your health and the procedure.

Arrival at the Medical Facility: What to Expect

Arriving at the medical facility is the start of your endoscopy journey. We’ll walk you through what happens next. You’ll need to arrive at the facility before your scheduled time. This gives us enough time to prepare everything.

Check-in Process and Paperwork

First, you’ll start with the check-in process. You’ll fill out any remaining paperwork. Our staff will help you with this, making sure everything is in order.

Remember to have your ID and insurance ready. This makes the check-in faster.

Meeting with the Medical Team

Before your endoscopy, you’ll meet with your medical team. This includes the doctor and the nursing staff. They’ll explain the procedure, answer your questions, and talk about sedation options.

This is also your chance to tell them about any medications you’re taking or any concerns you have.

By the time you’ve finished these steps, you’ll be ready for your endoscopy. Our team is dedicated to making sure you’re comfortable and informed. We’ll support you from the moment you arrive until the procedure is over.

How Long Does an Endoscopy Take: The Actual Procedure Duration

Patients often wonder how long an endoscopy takes. The time can vary based on several factors. These include the type of endoscopy and if any extra procedures are done.

Standard Upper Endoscopy (EGD) Duration

An upper endoscopy, or EGD, usually lasts between 5 to 20 minutes. The exact time can change based on the procedure’s complexity and the patient’s health.

Factors That May Extend Procedure Time

Several things can make an endoscopy longer. These include:

• The need for biopsy collection or removal of polyps
• The presence of complex gastrointestinal conditions that require more detailed examination
• The patient’s overall health and any unforeseen complications during the procedure

Knowing these factors can help patients prepare for a longer procedure time.

Biopsy Collection and Its Impact on Duration

Biopsy collection during an endoscopy can extend the procedure time. The time needed for a biopsy varies. It depends on the number of samples and their location in the GI tract. A biopsy can add a few minutes to half an hour, depending on its complexity.

It’s important for patients to talk to their healthcare provider. This way, they can get a more accurate estimate of the procedure duration.

The Patient Experience During an Endoscopy

Understanding what happens during an endoscopy can ease worries and get you ready. We aim to make sure our patients are both comfortable and well-informed.

Are You Asleep During an Endoscopy?

Many patients wonder if they’ll be asleep during an endoscopy. It really depends on the type of endoscopy and the hospital’s rules. Usually, patients get conscious sedation to relax and feel better.

Conscious sedation is not the same as being fully asleep. You can breathe on your own and might respond to voices. The sedation level can change, from a little to a lot, based on your needs and the procedure’s complexity.

What You Might Feel During the Procedure

During an endoscopy, you might feel some sensations, but they’re usually mild because of the sedation. You might feel a bit of pressure or discomfort when the endoscope goes in. But breathing is usually fine, and most people find it pretty easy to handle.

The team doing the endoscopy is trained to keep you comfortable and safe. They work hard to make sure you’re okay.

Endoscopy with Biopsy: What to Expect

If a biopsy is part of your endoscopy, you might wonder if it will hurt more or take longer. A biopsy takes a small piece of tissue from your gut for tests.

The biopsy doesn’t make the procedure much longer, and most people don’t feel extra pain. The tissue is then checked under a microscope for signs of problems like infections or cancer.

In summary, we aim to make your endoscopy experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and calm.

The Endoscopic Examination Process Step by Step

Let’s go through the endoscopic examination step by step. This method is key for doctors to see inside the body. Knowing this can ease worries and get patients ready for what’s next.

Positioning and Preparation in the Procedure Room

First, patients lie on a table, usually on their left side for upper endoscopy. This makes it easier to put in the endoscope. We make sure they’re comfy and safe, using sedation if needed.

The room has tools to watch the patient’s health signs. Our team keeps an eye on the patient’s comfort and safety.

Insertion and Navigation of the Endoscope

The endoscope goes in through the mouth or rectum, depending on the procedure. For upper endoscopy, it goes through the mouth. For colonoscopy, it goes through the rectum. Then, it moves through the digestive tract to see the lining.

During this, air might be added to make the view clearer. The endoscope’s camera shows images on a screen. This lets our team see inside in real-time.

How Far Does an Endoscopy Go in Different Procedures?

The endoscope’s reach changes with each procedure. For upper endoscopy, it goes into the stomach and sometimes the duodenum.

In colonoscopy, it goes through the rectum and colon. The exact reach depends on the patient’s body and the procedure’s goals.

Procedure Type	Extent of Endoscope Insertion	Purpose
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)	Esophagus, stomach, sometimes duodenum	Examine upper digestive tract
Colonoscopy	Rectum, colon	Examine lower digestive tract
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)	Bile and pancreatic ducts	Diagnose and treat issues in bile and pancreatic ducts

Knowing the endoscopic process can make patients feel more ready and calm. Our team works hard to make the experience smooth and comfortable.

Upper vs. Lower Endoscopy: Duration Differences

Endoscopy time varies between upper and lower procedures. It’s important for patients to know these differences. This helps them prepare well for their specific test.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD) Typical Timeline

An upper endoscopy, or EGD, usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes. It uses a flexible tube with a camera to look at the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine’s first part. The time needed can change if biopsies are required or if there are complex issues.

Patients are often sedated during an EGD. This makes the procedure less uncomfortable. But, they should also plan for extra time for getting ready and recovering.

Colonoscopy Duration Comparison

A colonoscopy can take 30 to 60 minutes. It’s longer because it’s more complex to explore the colon. The colonoscope is inserted through the rectum to check the whole colon.

Things like how well the bowel is prepared, the presence of polyps, and the need for biopsies can make a colonoscopy longer.

Combined Procedures: How Long Does a Colonoscopy and Endoscopy Take Together?

Doing both upper and lower endoscopies together can take 45 to 90 minutes. This is a common choice because it checks both parts of the GI tract at once.

The time for both tests, plus preparation and recovery, is included. Patients should plan to spend a few hours at the clinic, even if the tests are shorter.

Knowing how long different endoscopies take helps patients prepare better. It reduces anxiety and makes the experience smoother.

Immediate Recovery Period After an Endoscopy

After your endoscopy, you’ll go to the recovery room. Our team will watch over you as you wake up from sedation. This is a key time to make sure you’re okay and there are no problems.

Waking Up from Sedation: Timeline Expectations

How long it takes to wake up can differ. It usually takes 15 to 60 minutes. This depends on the sedation used and how you react to it. Our team will help you feel comfortable and safe while you wake up.

Here are some things you might experience:

• Gradual return to full consciousness
• Possible grogginess or disorientation
• Monitoring of vital signs to ensure stability

Monitoring Vital Signs Post-Procedure

In the recovery room, we’ll keep a close eye on your vital signs. We’ll check your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. These checks help us make sure you’re recovering well and catch any problems early.

Vital sign monitoring typically includes:

• Blood pressure checks
• Heart rate monitoring
• Oxygen saturation levels

Initial Recovery Room Stay Duration

How long you stay in the recovery room varies. It usually ranges from 30 minutes to an hour. This depends on how fast you recover and how stable your vital signs are. Our team will let you know when it’s time to leave.

Having an endoscopy can be stressful. We aim to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible. Our team is here to support you from start to finish.

Endoscopy Recovery Time: The Complete Timeline

Recovering from an endoscopy is more than just waiting for the sedation to fade. It’s about knowing what to expect during the recovery. The time it takes to recover can vary a lot. This depends on the type of procedure, your health, and the sedation used.

Short-term Recovery (First 24 Hours)

The first 24 hours after an endoscopy are key for getting better. You should rest and avoid hard activities. Watch for any unusual symptoms and follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

Here are some tips for the first few days:

• Stay at home and rest
• Avoid driving or using heavy machinery
• Don’t drink alcohol or make big decisions
• Have someone with you when you go home and stay with you

Common Side Effects and Their Duration

After an endoscopy, you might feel some side effects. Most of these are short-term. You could feel bloated, have a sore throat, or mild stomach pain.

Side Effect	Typical Duration
Bloating or gas	A few hours to a day
Sore throat	1-2 days
Mild abdominal pain	1-3 days

“Most patients can get back to normal in a day or two after an endoscopy. But, it’s key to follow your doctor’s specific advice.”

Medical Expert

Endoscopy Pain in Throat: What to Expect and How Long It Lasts

A sore throat is common after an endoscopy, if it was done on the upper part of your stomach. This pain comes from the endoscope going through your mouth and throat. The pain usually goes away in a couple of days.

To feel better, try these:

• Gargling with warm salt water
• Drinking warm liquids
• Avoiding spicy or sharp foods

Knowing the recovery timeline and possible side effects helps you get through the post-endoscopy period easier. Always talk to your healthcare provider for advice tailored to you.

Returning to Normal Activities After an Endoscopy

Knowing how to recover after an endoscopy is key to getting back to your daily routine safely. It’s important to follow certain rules to keep you safe and comfortable.

When you can eat and drink

Wait until the sedation wears off before eating or drinking. This can take 30 minutes to a few hours. It depends on the sedation and how you react.

Start with light foods like crackers, toast, or broth when you’re ready. Avoid heavy, spicy, or fatty foods for the rest of the day. Drinking lots of fluids is also important to stay hydrated.

Driving restrictions after sedation

Can you drive yourself home after an endoscopy? If you have sedation, don’t drive for at least 24 hours. Sedation can make it hard to judge and react quickly, which is dangerous.

Have someone drive you home and stay with you for the day. This keeps you safe and helps if you need anything.

Resuming work and daily activities

How long it takes to go back to work or daily activities depends on the procedure, sedation, and your health. Most people can go back to light activities in a day or two.

If your job is hard, like lifting or bending, you might need more time off. Listen to your body and follow your doctor’s advice.

By following these tips, you can recover safely and comfortably after your endoscopy. Always talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about getting back to normal.

Results and Follow-Up: Completing the Endoscopy Process

The endoscopy process doesn’t end with the procedure. It’s important to know what to expect with results and follow-up care. After the procedure, you’ll wait for the results and might need a follow-up appointment to talk about them with your doctor.

When to Expect Preliminary Results

Preliminary results from your endoscopy are usually ready soon after. Your doctor may share initial findings while you’re in the recovery area or shortly after. These results give you a first look at what was seen during the procedure.

How Long Do Endoscopy Results Take

The time to get final endoscopy results varies. While you might get preliminary results right away, final results can take several days to a week or more. This depends on how complex your case is and the tests done during the endoscopy.

Result Type	Typical Timeline	Factors Influencing Timeline
Preliminary Results	Immediately after procedure	Complexity of the case
Final Results	Several days to a week or more	Specific tests conducted, laboratory processing times

Follow-Up Appointment Scheduling

After getting your endoscopy results, your doctor will set up a follow-up appointment to go over the findings. At this time, you can ask questions, learn about any next steps, and discuss treatment options if needed.

We know waiting for endoscopy results can be stressful. Our team is dedicated to giving you timely and accurate results. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Conclusion: The Complete Endoscopy Timeline from Start to Finish

Knowing the endoscopy timeline is key for patients to feel ready and informed. We’ve walked you through the whole process. This includes the initial consultation, getting ready, the procedure, and recovery.

The endoscopy journey has several steps. These include getting ready, the procedure itself, and recovering after. Knowing these steps helps manage expectations and lowers anxiety.

Understanding each part of the endoscopy timeline helps patients navigate their care better. This knowledge lets them ask smart questions, follow prep instructions, and care for themselves after. It makes the whole experience smoother and more comfortable.

FAQ

References

National Institutes of Health. Evidence-Based Medical Insight. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endoscopy-