Capsule Endoscopy

You can go home after you swallow the capsule and perform most of your daily activities. You will not feel the capsule as it moves through your digestive tract. Be sure to:

• Avoid strenuous exercise, sudden stops, and bending or jarring movements.
• Avoid MRI machines, ham radios, and strong magnetic fields (such as those in airport/government building security areas) until the capsule is no longer in your body. You can use computers and phones safely.

Resume eating and drinking. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on returning to your regular diet. The instructions will be similar to the following:

• • First four hours after swallowing the capsule: nothing by mouth
  • Four to six hours after swallowing the capsule: water only
  • Six to eight hours after swallowing the capsule: full liquids, including broth and fruit juice
  • Eight hours after swallowing the capsule, a light snack

Return the equipment. Depending on the type of capsule endoscopy you were prescribed, your doctor will provide instructions on returning the equipment and/or capsule.

 If you have any nausea, vomiting, cramps, or pain in your belly while the capsule is inside, call your doctor right away.

If capsule endoscopy leads to a diagnosis, your gastroenterologist will discuss the treatment options. More procedures, such as a biopsy or a colonoscopy, may be needed depending on the condition.