Bronchoscopy- help!

I have to get a bronchoscopy to evaluate recurring pneumonia, and I am so scared. They don't give you general anesthesia but only sedate you! Has anyone had this done, and is it as bad as I fear? --Ashley

I've never had this done but from what I understand is that they give you a medicine to stop your gag reflex as well as a sedative, slide a lighted tube down your nose or throat and take a peek into your airways. They may hold you for a few hours for observation. It sure does seem scary but I'm sure everything will be ok. Hopefully, it won't take too long and it will be nothing but a blur by the time you are done.

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^{@--->--Sherry--<---@}

Hi, I won't pretend that it is pleasant but you will get through it ok, the sedative works quite well and your memory of the scope will be hazy. I remember gagging but not panicking, and it wasn't as bad as I feared. Good luck.