Stomach Pain 3 Days After Endoscopy

An endoscopy is a common diagnostic procedure used to examine the inside of your digestive tract. While generally considered safe, it's not unusual to experience some discomfort afterward. However, persistent stomach pain 3 days after an endoscopy might be concerning for many patients. This guide explores the causes of continued stomach pain following an endoscopy, helps you distinguish between normal recovery symptoms and potential complications, and advises when to seek medical attention from specialists.

Most patients can expect some mild discomfort immediately after an endoscopy that typically resolves within 24-48 hours:

Expected short-term symptoms include:

• Mild throat soreness (from the tube insertion)
• Bloating and gas due to air introduced during the procedure
• Minor abdominal discomfort or cramping
• Mild nausea that resolves quickly
• Slight difficulty swallowing (temporary)

These symptoms generally improve significantly within the first 24 hours and should be largely resolved within 2 days. Your healthcare provider may have advised you about these common after-effects before your procedure.

Persistent or worsening stomach pain three days after your endoscopy warrants attention, as it may indicate a potential complication. While serious complications are rare (occurring in less than 1% of procedures), they require prompt medical evaluation.

Signs that your stomach pain might indicate a complication:

• Pain that is severe, sharp, or intensifying rather than improving
• Pain accompanied by fever (above 38°C/100.4°F)
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Vomiting, especially if persistent or containing blood
• Black, tarry stools or visible blood in your stool
• Severe difficulty swallowing or inability to keep fluids down
• Distended or increasingly tender abdomen
• Pain that wakes you from sleep or prevents normal activities

If you're experiencing stomach pain 3 days after your endoscopy, consider the following guidance:

Contact your GP or NHS 111 if:

• Pain is persistent but mild to moderate
• You have mild nausea without vomiting
• You're concerned but don't have serious symptoms
• You're unsure whether your symptoms are normal

Seek immediate care via A&E or call 999 if:

• Pain is severe, sudden, or getting significantly worse
• You have fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
• You experience difficulty breathing
• You notice blood in vomit or stool
• You have severe difficulty swallowing or keeping fluids down
• You experience chest pain or a racing heartbeat

To minimize the chances of experiencing prolonged pain after an endoscopy, consider these precautions:

Before your procedure:

• Fully disclose your medical history and all medications
• Follow all fasting instructions precisely
• Inform your doctor about previous adverse reactions to procedures
• Ask questions about what to expect during recovery
• Arrange for someone to accompany you home after the procedure

After your procedure:

• Follow all post-procedure instructions carefully
• Resume eating gradually as advised
• Stay hydrated if not contraindicated
• Take prescribed medications exactly as directed
• Avoid strenuous activities for the recommended period

While some discomfort following an endoscopy is normal, persistent stomach pain 3 days after the procedure could indicate a complication that requires medical attention. Most endoscopy complications are treatable when addressed promptly, so don't hesitate to contact a healthcare provider if you're concerned about your symptoms.

Understanding the difference between normal recovery and potential complications can help you make informed decisions about when to seek help. If you're experiencing concerning symptoms and need to consult with a gastroenterology specialist, use our provider search tool to find qualified healthcare professionals in your area who can provide expert evaluation and care.