What is a bronchoscopy?
There are many reasons to have this procedure. Your doctor may look for problems with your airway. Or he or she may remove an object or growth. Your doctor could also take a sample of tissue to study. This is called a biopsy.
You will probably be awake for the procedure. But you will get medicine so you will not have pain.
Most people go home the same day. You will probably be able to go back to work or your normal routine in 1 or 2 days.
When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath.
- You cough up large amounts of bright red blood.
- You have severe pain in your chest.
- You have severe trouble breathing.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You cough up more than a few tablespoons of blood.
- You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
- You have a fever over 100°F.
- You still sound hoarse after a few days.
- You have bubbles under the skin around the collarbone. These may crackle and pop when you press on them.
Watch closely for changes in your health and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.