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May 23, 2023 · Even though cancer screening is the primary reason for getting a colonoscopy, it may be used to check for problems such as: Ulcerations. Inflammation. Diverticula (pouches) along the colon...
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A colonoscopy (koe-lun-OS-kuh-pee) is an exam used to look for changes — such as swollen, irritated tissues, polyps or cancer — in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the entir...
Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to: 1. Investigate intestinal signs and symptoms.A colonoscopy can help your doctor explore possible causes of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea and other intestinal problems. 2. Screen for colon cancer.If you're age 45 or older and at average risk of colon cancer — you have no colon cancer ri...
A colonoscopy poses few risks. Rarely, complications of a colonoscopy may include: 1. A reaction to the sedative used during the exam 2. Bleeding from the site where a tissue sample (biopsy) was taken or a polyp or other abnormal tissue was removed 3. A tear in the colon or rectum wall (perforation) After discussing the risks of colonoscopy with yo...
Before a colonoscopy, you'll need to clean out (empty) your colon. Any residue in your colon may make it difficult to get a good view of your colon and rectum during the exam. To empty your colon, your doctor may ask you to: 1. Follow a special diet the day before the exam.Typically, you won't be able to eat solid food the day before the exam. Drin...
During the procedure
During a colonoscopy, you'll wear a gown, but likely nothing else. Sedation or anesthesia is usually recommended. In most cases, the sedative is combined with pain medication given directly into your blood stream (intravenously) to lessen any discomfort. You'll begin the exam lying on your side on the exam table, usually with your knees drawn toward your chest. The doctor will insert a colonoscope into your rectum. The scope — which is long enough to reach the entire length of your colon — co...
After the procedure
After the exam, it takes about an hour to begin to recover from the sedative. You'll need someone to take you home because it can take up to a day for the full effects of the sedative to wear off. Don't drive or make important decisions or go back to work for the rest of the day. You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the exam, as you clear the air from your colon. Walking may help relieve any discomfort. You may also notice a small amount of blood with your first bowel moveme...
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Mar 30, 2018 · Here’s why having a colonoscopy isn’t that bad: 1. A colonoscopy is painless. Yes, the tube goes exactly where you think it does. But you won’t feel a thing. Colonoscopies employ monitored anesthesia. You’ll be given medicine through an IV that will keep you comfortable, virtually pain-free and unaware of the procedure.
Dec 11, 2023 · What are the reasons for an urgent colonoscopy? Symptoms. Conditions. Waiting times. Are they beneficial? Next steps. Contacting a doctor. Questions to ask. Summary. A doctor may...
Jul 22, 2020 · A colonoscopy is an important procedure for detecting colorectal cancer in those at high risk or over the age of 50. A colonoscopy usually takes 30–60 minutes. However, people should...
- Jayne Leonard
Apr 29, 2022 · During a colonoscopy, your doctor checks for abnormalities or disease in your large intestine, particularly the colon. They’ll use a colonoscope, a thin, flexible tube that has a light and camera...
Why would I need a colonoscopy? A colonoscopy may be preventive, diagnostic or therapeutic — and often, it’s all of these. Your healthcare provider may advise you to have a colonoscopy for routine cancer screening if you’re at a statistically higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.
