What is a Colonoscopy?

A procedure most often used to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum is called the "colonoscopy." It is used to look for causes of unexplained changes in bowel habits and/or to evaluate symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and weight loss.

What is the preparation for a colonoscopy?

You will need to follow a liquid diet for 1 to 3 days before the procedure
You will most likely be asked to take a laxative the night before the procedure and in some cases you might be asked to give yourself an enema

The liquid diet should be clear and not contain food colorings. It may include:

Fat-free bouillon or broth
Strained fruit juice
Water
Plain coffee
Plain tea
Diet soda
Gelatin

You will need to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you have or medications you take routinely such as:

Aspirin
Arthritis medications
Blood thinners
Diabetes medication
Vitamins that contain iron

Also inform the medical staff of any medical condition that may need special attention such as:

Heart disease
Lung disease
Or any medical condition that needs special attention

You won't be allowed to drive yourself home after being sedated.

What happens during the procedure?

You will lie on your left side on the examining table
You will be given pain medication and a moderate sedative to keep you comfortable and help you relax during the exam
The doctor and a nurse will monitor vital signs, look for signs of discomfort and make adjustments as needed
The doctor will insert a long, flexible, lighted tube into your rectum and slowly guide it into your colon
You may be asked to change positions at times
Most patients do not remember the procedure afterwards
The doctor can remove most abnormal growths in the colon such as a polyp, which are most usually not cancerous, but could turn to cancer
Removed polyps are sent to a lab for testing
By identifying and removing polyps, a colonoscopy likely prevents most cancers from forming
The doctor can also remove tissue samples to test in the lab for diseases of the colon (biopsy)
You may feel mild cramping during the procedure. Take several slow, deep breaths to alleviate this.

Are there any complications that can occur during a colonoscopy?

Bleeding and puncture of the colon are possible, but uncommon How long does the procedure take?
30 to 60 minutes Side effects after a colonoscopy you should report to your doctor immediately include:
Bloody bowel movements
Dizziness
Weakness

Additional instructions include:

Read your discharge instructions carefully
Medications like blood-thinners may need to be stopped for a short time, especially if a biopsy was performed or polyps removed

When can you expect to recover from a colonoscopy?

Full recovery is expected by the next day

When can you return to normal activities?

The day after a colonoscopy

Source: National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All health concerns should be addressed by a qualified health care professional.

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