My Endoscopy Story

I didn’t take photos that day. Honestly, I couldn’t. I was in too much pain preparing for my very first endoscopy and in my head, it felt like a huge, terrifying step.

It was my first time, and if I’m being honest, I hoped it would also be my last.

The night before the procedure, I kept going back and forth. Should I do it? Should I cancel? Like most people, I turned to Google to “learn more.” Big mistake. If you’ve ever searched symptoms or procedures online, you already know, it usually makes everything sound worse than it is.

Let me tell you this now: an endoscopy is not as scary as it sounds.

Why I Finally Said Yes to an Endoscopy

For about three weeks, I was dealing with constant gas pain, frequent burping, and a bloated feeling that just wouldn’t go away. It got worse at night, sharp stomach pain would wake me up, leaving me exhausted the next day.

I ended up in the ER, where I was prescribed omeprazole, a medication commonly used for acid-related issues like GERD and ulcers. I took it for a week, hoping for relief.

Instead, the pain got worse, especially after eating.

I went for a second opinion. This time, another doctor advised me to continue omeprazole and add another medication to help with digestion. I followed the instructions carefully.

But again, things didn’t improve. In fact, the pain became unbearable.

That’s when I decided to stop guessing and start finding real answers. I had an abdominal ultrasound done and then consulted a gastroenterologist, who recommended an endoscopy.

At that point, I knew it was time.

What Happens Before an Endoscopy

I was instructed to fast for 8 hours before the procedure, no food, no water. It makes sense since doctors need a clear view of your digestive tract.

When I arrived at the clinic, I saw the endoscope for the first time. I won’t lie, it looked intimidating. That moment alone almost made me panic.

Thankfully, my husband stayed by my side the entire time, which helped more than I can explain.

What the Endoscopy Procedure Feels Like

The doctor reassured me that I wouldn’t feel pain, though I was still skeptical.

Here’s what actually happened:

I was asked to lie on my side

I was given an IV sedative, which made me feel relaxed and slightly groggy

A numbing spray was applied to my throat

A mouth guard was placed to keep my mouth open

I was still conscious, but calmer.

When the scope was inserted, yes, it felt uncomfortable. But it wasn’t painful. It was strange more than anything else.

I kept my eyes closed the whole time and focused on breathing.

And then, before I even fully processed what was happening, it was over.

The entire procedure lasted about 2 to 3 minutes.

After the Procedure

I expected to feel sore or uneasy afterward, but surprisingly, I felt completely fine. No throat pain. No stomach discomfort.

And the best part?

The results came back normal.

My digestive system was okay.

Relief doesn’t even begin to describe what I felt in that moment.

Cost of Endoscopy in the Philippines

If you’re wondering about the cost, mine was very affordable. With PhilHealth coverage, I only paid around 2,000 pesos, which already included the professional fee and the procedure.

If you’re feeling anxious about getting an endoscopy, I completely understand. I was there too, overthinking, scared, and unsure.

But now that I’ve gone through it, I can honestly say this: it’s quick, manageable, and far less frightening than your imagination makes it.

Sometimes, the fear of the unknown is worse than the procedure itself.

And in my case, it didn’t just give me medical answers, it gave me peace of mind.