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Real members of myPHteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Can you have a colonoscopy and endoscopy if you have PH?

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Halethorpe, MD
November 24, 2025
 · 
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A myPHteam Member

Well I had a colonoscope in August and everyone knows on here that they almost killed me! My Cardio doctor told me if I ever have to be even twilight, I must go into the hospital and be incubated, to be anesthesia! I told the gastro Dr, and the so called special anesthesia's (3 times) that you can't just give me a dose and call it pudding, but they did not listen, spent four days in hospital trying to keep me alive. Make sure you discuss this with Doctor and hospital before you do this!

November 24, 2025
A myPHteam Member

My last colonoscopy was done in a hospital as cardiologists had to be accessible due to the problems PH patients have with anesthesia...even just twilighting. And I have been told by my gastro doctor that she does not recommend my having any further endoscopies or colonoscopies due to both my age (now 75) and my PH.

We have had several posters on the board here indicate they had very serious issues getting colonoscopies due to the anesthetics. Hopefully at least one or two of them will spot this thread and comment for you.

November 24, 2025
myPHteam

Can you have a colonoscopy and endoscopy if you have pulmonary hypertension?

Yes, people with PH can generally have colonoscopies and endoscopies, but these procedures require careful planning with your medical team. Since both procedures typically use anesthesia, your doctors will take special precautions to minimize Show Full Answer

Can you have a colonoscopy and endoscopy if you have pulmonary hypertension?

Yes, people with PH can generally have colonoscopies and endoscopies, but these procedures require careful planning with your medical team. Since both procedures typically use anesthesia, your doctors will take special precautions to minimize risks.

Before any surgery or procedure requiring anesthesia, your medical team will run tests to evaluate how well your heart and lungs are functioning. These may include:

* Electrocardiogram (EKG)
* Echocardiography (heart ultrasound)
* Chest X-rays
* Laboratory tests
* Lung function tests
* Right heart catheterization (in some cases)

One of the most important goals is to minimize the risk of worsening right-sided heart failure during the procedure. Your surgical team will make special modifications to your anesthesia plan based on your heart and lung function.

Your PH medications can usually be continued before the procedure, though some may need adjustment. Blood thinners, calcium channel blockers, and vasodilators are generally safe to continue, but your doctor will discuss any specific concerns about your medications.

Be sure to talk with both your PH specialist and the doctor performing the procedure well in advance so they can coordinate your care and ensure the safest approach for you.

November 24, 2025

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