Bronchoscopy is a procedure to look directly at the airways in the lungs using a thin, lighted tube (bronchoscope). The bronchoscope is put in the nose or mouth. It is moved down the throat and windpipe (trachea), and into the airways.

Is it painful having a bronchoscopy?

It may feel uncomfortable, but it shouldn't hurt. Your health care team will try to make you as comfortable as possible. Samples of tissue and fluid may be taken and procedures may be performed using devices passed through the bronchoscope. Your doctor may ask if you have pain in your chest, back or shoulders.

Are you sedated for a bronchoscopy?

Bronchoscopy is done under "conscious" sedation. You continue to breathe on your own but do not feel the discomfort of having the tube in your mouth or nose.