The exam done to look for certain changes (i.e., irritated or swollen tissues, cancer, or polyps) in the rectum and the colon (also known as the large intestine) is called colonoscopy. During the procedure, a colonoscope (a long and flexible tube) is inserted into the rectum.
A tiny video camera found at the end of the tube will allow the doctors to see the inside of the whole colon. When required, polyps and other abnormal tissues will be removed during a colonoscopy. Tissue samples or biopsies can also be taken during the procedure.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
Before the procedure, the colon needs to be emptied or cleaned out. Residues in the colon can hinder the doctors from getting a clear view of the rectum and the colon during the procedure. When emptying the colon, you may be asked to:
- Adhere to a unique diet. Typically, you will be asked to refrain from eating solid food the day prior to the procedure. Your doctor might also limit your liquid intake to just clear liquids such as broths, carbonated beverages, and water. You will also be asked to avoid any red beverages as doctors might mistake them for blood.
- Take laxatives. It is likely that doctors will recommend prescription laxatives. Often, the medication is taken the night before the procedure.
- Have your medications adjusted. For patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart conditions, inform your doctor about any medications you are taking at least a week prior. Your doctor might adjust your dosage or ask you to not take the medications for the time being.
What to Expect
When undergoing colonoscopy, you will be wearing a gown and nothing else. Anesthesia or sedation is typically advised. In the majority of the cases, a sedative that contains a pain medication will be given intravenously to minimize any discomfort. Patients will be asked to lie on their side.
They will also be asked to draw their knees to their chests. The colonoscope will then be inserted into the patient’s rectum. The colonoscope can reach the colon’s entire length. It also comes with a tube as well as a light that enables doctors to pump water or carbon dioxide into the colon. Carbon dioxide works by inflating the colon. This is done so doctors can view the lining better. When air is introduced or when there is movement of the scope, you might feel some stomach cramping.
At the end of the colonoscope, there is a small camera that will send images to a monitor. This is done so the doctor can view the insides of the patient’s colon. Typically, the procedure will take around from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
What to Expect After
It will take around an hour for patients to get rid of the effects of the sedative. Since a day is sometimes to wear the sedative off, it is recommended that someone comes to bring you home after the procedure. You are advised not to drive and to just rest the entire day.
In some instances, you can pass gas or feel bloated some hours after. This is normal as you are clearing air from the colon. You can try walking to ease the discomfort.
Some might notice very small blood in their bowel after the procedure. In most cases, this is not a cause for concern. However, if you continuously have fever, pass blood, and experience abdominal pain, you need to visit your doctor right away.
