Unilateral Rhinorrhea and Sneezing After Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Under Intravenous Propofol Sedation With Supplemental Oxygen Administered via a Nasal Cannula: A Case Report

We present a rarely described complication of unilateral rhinorrhea and sneezing in a patient who received intravenous sedation with propofol and supplemental oxygen via a nasal cannula during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The literature is reviewed and a mechanism is proposed. Mechanical irritation of the nasal mucosa is felt to be the trigger. Suggestions to avoid and to treat are offered.