Endoscopy is a relatively safe procedure compared to surgical interventions. Like all medical procedures, however, there are risks, albeit low.

Bleeding: Bleeding can occur during endoscopy performed for diagnosis, treatment, or biopsy.

Infection: Most endoscopies consist of examination and biopsy and carry a low risk of infection. The risk of infection may increase if additional procedures are performed as part of the endoscopy. Most infections are minor and treatable with antibiotics. Your doctor may give you prophylactic antibiotics before your procedure if you are at higher risk of infection.

Gastrointestinal perforation: Rarely, a tear in the esophagus or another part of the upper gastrointestinal tract and organ damage can occur.

Sedation reaction: Sedation is administered before upper endoscopy to make the procedure more comfortable and prevent patient discomfort. Reactions to the sedation are possible, though very rare.

Chest pain
Fever
Persistent pain at the endoscopy site
Shortness of breath
Difficulty swallowing
Severe and persistent abdominal pain
Vomiting

If you experience these signs and symptoms after your endoscopy procedure, you should contact your doctor.