Why hadn\u2019t I taken the benzos? The thought loomed large as I gagged once again on the flexible tube exploring the lesser curve of my stomach. Instead I\u2019d opted to have the OGD with just an anaesthetic throat spray, and was now regretting having spurned the anxiolytic and amnesic delights of midazolam. Legal high or ten minutes of wretching? I think I\u2019d made the wrong call.<\/p>\n
And it was all down to pride. The youthful gastroenterology consultant \u2013 who\u2019d been my boss three years previously when I\u2019d been a feckless house officer \u2013 was kindly doing the procedure himself. I suppose some part of me wanted to show this exemplar of professional dedication (and part-time rugby player) that I could stomach the discomfort, if you\u2019ll excuse the pun.<\/p>\n
In all other respects this foray into the patient journey was a delight: a peaceful drive through the Yorkshire countryside to discover this brand new hospital, nestling among the hills, with its Victorian forbear standing empty next door, like an unwanted elderly relative.<\/p>\n
The reception staff were welcoming and efficient. A nurse called me in and discussed options for sedation. Next, the registrar went through the consent paperwork and politely enquired how I\u2019d feel if he did the procedure himself (“Er\u2026OK”). Then the consultant popped his head round the door and explained things all over again. Another nurse was equally kind and considerate, making all the right, \u2018You\u2019re doing really well\u2019 noises as the tube snaked down my repulsing gullet.<\/p>\n
I\u2019d put off having the endoscopy for nearly six years, for bothersome dyspepsia not completely controlled on PPIs. Afterwards I told my wife the good news \u2013 no worrying findings and not even signs of inflammation \u2013 and if I wanted to carry on managing things with tablets, then that would be fine. Her response, I felt, was a little harsh: “So in other words it\u2019s all in your head.” Then again, she does work in hospital medicine.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Why hadn\u2019t I taken the benzos? The thought loomed large as I gagged once again on the flexible tube exploring the lesser curve of my stomach. Instead I\u2019d opted to […]<\/p>\n