Endoscopy Prep 2025: What You Need to Do Ahead of Time | Bestwrites

Preparing for an endoscopy can feel stressful if you are not sure what steps to take. This 2025 Endoscopy Prep Guide walks you through everything you need to do before your procedure, so your procedure is safe, accurate, and as comfortable as possible. By following these instructions closely, you help your doctor get precise results and reduce the chances of delays or complications.

What Is an Endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a procedure that lets a doctor view the inside of your upper digestive system using a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope. It has a small camera and light that help identify problems such as:

• Heartburn or acid reflux
  
  

• Trouble swallowing
  
  

• Stomach pain
  
  

• Ongoing nausea
  
  

• Internal bleeding
  
  

Your doctor may also take small tissue samples (biopsies) if needed. The procedure usually takes 10–20 minutes and is often done with light sedation to keep you relaxed.

Why Preparation Matters in 2025

Proper prep helps your doctor get the best possible look at your esophagus, stomach, and upper intestine. Good preparation:

• Ensures your stomach is empty
  
  

• Improves the accuracy of test results
  
  

• Lowers the risk of complications
  
  

• Helps the procedure go smoothly
  
  

• Prevents cancellations or rescheduling
  
  

Even small mistakes, like eating too late, can delay the procedure. That is why clear instructions are important.

What You Need to Do Ahead of Time

1. Share Your Medical Information Early

Before your endoscopy, your care team will review your medical history. Be sure to share:

• Current medications
  
  

• Vitamin or herbal supplements
  
  

• Any allergies
  
  

• Past surgeries
  
  

• Existing health conditions
  
  

• Any recent illnesses
  
  

Honest and complete information helps your doctor plan a safe procedure.

2. Follow Medication Instructions

Some medications may need to be paused, changed, or taken at different times before the procedure. Always follow your doctor’s directions, and do not make changes on your own.

Medications that may require adjustments include:

• Blood thinners
  
  

• Iron supplements
  
  

• Diabetes medications
  
  

• Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  
  

Ask your healthcare provider if you are unsure about any medication.

3. Understand Your Fasting Requirements

Fasting is one of the most important steps before an endoscopy. In most cases:

• Stop eating solid food 8–12 hours before your appointment
  
  

• Drink only clear liquids until the final cutoff time your doctor gives you
  
  

Approved clear liquids include:

• Water
  
  

• Clear broth
  
  

• Apple juice
  
  

• Electrolyte drinks
  
  

• Tea or black coffee (without cream)
  
  

Avoid red or purple drinks and anything containing dairy.

A fully empty stomach helps your doctor get clear images and keeps the procedure safe.

4. Eat a Light Diet the Day Before

Many doctors recommend switching to a light, low-fiber diet on the day before your endoscopy. This helps reduce stomach contents and prevents irritation.

Good food choices include:

• Soft cooked eggs
  
  

• Soup
  
  

• White bread
  
  

• Rice
  
  

• Bananas
  
  

Foods to avoid:

• Raw vegetables
  
  

• Nuts or seeds
  
  

• High-fiber foods
  
  

• Fried or spicy meals
  
  

Eating lightly helps make fasting easier and the procedure smoother.

5. Arrange Transportation and Support

Because sedation is commonly used during an endoscopy, you will not be able to drive afterward. Plan ahead by arranging:

• A responsible adult to drive you home
  
  

• Someone to stay with you for a few hours if needed
  
  

• Time off from work or school for the rest of the day
  
  

Sedation may leave you groggy, so having support is essential.

6. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Choose loose, simple clothing on the day of your procedure. Avoid tight belts, heavy jewelry, or clothing with complicated fasteners. Comfortable clothes make check-in faster and help while you rest in recovery.

What to Expect on Procedure Day

Here is what typically happens during an endoscopy:

1. Check-in – You review medical information and change into a gown.
   
   

2. Sedation – A nurse places an IV and gives you medication to help you relax.
   
   

3. Procedure – The doctor gently guides the endoscope through your mouth. You should not feel pain, and most patients remember little afterward.
   
   

4. Recovery – You rest for about 30–60 minutes until the sedation wears off. A nurse will review your results and discharge instructions.
   
   

After the Endoscopy

Most patients feel normal within a few hours. Common temporary effects include:

• Mild sore throat
  
  

• Gas or bloating
  
  

• Light sleepiness
  
  

For smooth recovery:

• Start with clear liquids
  
  

• Slowly return to regular foods
  
  

• Rest for the remainder of the day
  
  

• Avoid alcohol, driving, and heavy activity for 24 hours
  
  

Call your doctor if you experience severe pain, fever, or ongoing vomiting.

2025 Endoscopy Prep Checklist

✔ Share your medical history
✔ Follow medication adjustments
✔ Complete fasting on time
✔ Eat lightly the day before
✔ Arrange a ride home
✔ Wear loose clothing
✔ Bring needed documents and ID

Final Thoughts

Preparing for an endoscopy in 2025 is simple when you understand each step. This Bestwrites Guide explains what you need to do ahead of time so the procedure is safe, quick, and effective. Good preparation helps your healthcare team give you the most accurate results and the best overall experience.