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Risks
By Mayo Clinic staffEndoscopy is a safe procedure. However it carries a very small risk of complications, including:
- Bleeding. Your risk of bleeding complications after endoscopy is increased if the procedure involves removing a piece of tissue for testing (biopsy). In rare cases, such bleeding may require a blood transfusion.
- Infection. An infection in your digestive tract may require antibiotics.
- Tearing of the gastrointestinal tract. A tear in your esophagus or another part of your upper digestive tract may require hospitalization and sometimes surgery to repair it.
You can reduce your risk of complications by carefully following your doctor's instructions for preparing for endoscopy, such as fasting and stopping certain medications.
Signs and symptoms that could indicate a complication
Signs and symptoms to watch for after your endoscopy include:
- A temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Black or very dark colored stool
- Difficulty swallowing
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain that isn't relieved by passing gas
- Vomiting blood
Call your doctor immediately or go to an emergency room if you experience any of these signs or symptoms.
