A colonoscopy is a diagnostic exam to find possible abnormalities in the colon or large intestine and rectum. In simple words, the process involves using a tube called the colonoscope into the rectum, and with the help a camera at the tip of the colonoscope, the doctor is capable of seeing the colon. During colonoscopy, doctor may collect tissue samples and can remove polyps. Here’s more on what you need to know.
Why is a colonoscopy required?
Depending on your signs and symptoms, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to understand the underlying cause, if any, in the colon. Colonoscopy is often a must for people over the age of 50 as a part of screening for colon cancer. Typically, colonoscopy is done to find the presence of polyps, and your doctor may, as mentioned, remove tissues and polyps to reduce the risk of color cancer. There aren’t any major side effects of colonoscopy, but patients can bleed from the site from the tissue sample is taken. There can be some damage to the rectal wall. In most cases, your doctor will explain the risks, if any.
Before, after and during colonoscopy
Usually, patients are advised not to eat anything solid the previous day, so that the colon doesn’t have stool. Wine and red colored liquids must be avoided, as well. Laxatives can be recommended a day before to ensure that the colon is empty, while in some cases, an enema kit can be used. Some medicines can be stopped for a period, which is to be decided by the doctor.
Sedation can be used for the procedure, which doesn’t have to be complete sedation. The colonoscope will be used to check the colon. A tube and a light come with the colonoscope, which allows the doctor to check the lining of the colon by pumping carbon dioxide in the colon. Patients may feel abdominal cramps or a need to poop as the colonoscope moves inside the colon, which is pretty normal. The images of the colonoscope is saved on the monitor for further evaluation. The whole process doesn’t take more than an hour.
If sedatives have been used, you may need an hour or two to get into senses. Special diets are often recommended for patients who have polyps or in case some have been removed. There can be some blood with the first bowel movement after colonoscopy, and some patients do have a bloated feeling, which should subside in a few hours.
