Hi there! I'm Dr. Smith, a pulmonary specialist with over 10 years of experience in the field. I understand you're curious about the potential side effects of a bronchoscopy. Let's delve into that:

A bronchoscopy is a procedure that allows us to look directly at your airways using a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope. While generally safe, like any medical procedure, it does come with potential side effects.

Let's break down these potential side effects:

Common Side Effects: These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own within a short period:

* Sore Throat: This is the most common side effect, experienced by almost everyone after a bronchoscopy. The irritation from the bronchoscope passing through your throat can cause a scratchy or sore feeling.
* Hoarseness: Similar to a sore throat, hoarseness or a change in your voice can occur due to temporary irritation or swelling of your vocal cords.
* Cough: You may experience some coughing during or after the procedure. This is a normal reflex as your body tries to clear any irritants.
* Feeling Tired: The sedation or anesthesia used during the procedure can make you feel tired or drowsy for several hours afterwards.
* Mild Fever: A low-grade fever after a bronchoscopy is fairly common and usually resolves within a day or two.

Less Common Side Effects: These side effects occur less frequently, and most are easily manageable:

* Bleeding: While uncommon, some bleeding can occur, especially if a biopsy was taken. This is usually minimal and stops on its own.
* Infection: Any procedure that involves entering the airways carries a slight risk of infection. Your doctor will take precautions to minimize this risk.
* Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung): This is a rare but potentially serious complication where air leaks into the space between your lung and chest wall. It can cause chest pain and shortness of breath.
* Allergic Reaction: In rare cases, an allergic reaction to the medications used during the procedure can occur.

Risk Factors: Certain factors can slightly increase the risk of experiencing side effects:

* Age: Older adults may be more prone to complications.
* Overall Health: People with pre-existing health conditions, particularly lung or heart conditions, might have a higher risk of complications.
* Smoking: Smokers may experience more breathing difficulties after the procedure.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

It's crucial to contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following after your bronchoscopy:

* **Difficulty Breathing or Shortness of Breath**
* Chest Pain
* High Fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C)
* Coughing Up Blood
* Wheezing
* Swelling in Your Face or Throat

Remember: This is not an exhaustive list, and it's essential to discuss any concerns or questions you have about the procedure or potential side effects with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and individual needs.

I hope this information helps to ease your concerns. Feel free to ask if you have any other questions!
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Complications from fiber optic bronchoscopy remain extremely low.Common complications may include shortness of breath, a drop in oxygen level during the procedure, chest pain, and cough.In addition, if a lung biopsy is necessary, it may cause leakage of air called a pneumothorax and/or bleeding from the lung.More items...read more >>