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Colonoscopy: What You Need to Know About Preparation & Risks

A colonoscopy is a test that lets your doctor see the inside of your large intestine (colon). During the test, a soft, bendable tube with a tiny camera is placed into your rectum. This helps check for signs of colon cancer, polyps, or swelling in your colon.Colonoscopy helps catch problems early, which makes treatment easier and more successful.The American Cancer Society says people should start getting colonoscopies at age 45. But if you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, you may need to start earlier. So, be sure to talk to your doctor about the right time for you.

What are the Benefits of a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy offers several important benefits: 

  • Early Detection: It can help find colon cancer early, which gives you a better chance of recovery.
  • Polyp Detection:  Most colon cancers start as small polyps. A colonoscopy can find and remove these before they turn into cancer.
  • Peace of Mind: A normal result means your colon is healthy, which can give you relief and confidence.

What are the Risks of a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is very safe, but like all medical tests, there are some risks:

  • Bleeding: You might see a little blood in your stool, especially if a polyp is removed. But serious bleeding is rare.
  • Tear in the Colon: There is a small risk that the colon wall could get a tiny tear.
  • Discomfort: Some people feel bloated or have cramps, but this usually goes away soon.

Before your test, your doctor will explain all possible risks. After the test, if you have severe stomach pain, bleeding, or a fever, call your doctor right away.

Colonoscopy is not perfect. Sometimes, small problems may be missed. That’s why follow-up is important. If you notice new symptoms, don’t ignore them. Talk to your doctor.

What Should I Expect During a Colonoscopy?

  • Before the Procedure: Your doctor will give you instructions to clean out your colon. This usually includes taking a laxative and avoiding certain foods.
  • During the Procedure: You’ll be given medicine to help you relax. The doctor will gently insert the tube and look inside your colon on a screen. If needed, they may take a sample (biopsy), remove a polyp, or stop bleeding.
  • After the Procedure: You’ll rest for a while as the sedative wears off. Feeling gassy or bloated is normal, but it won’t last long. Most people go home the same day and feel back to normal within 24 hours.

What are the Alternatives to a Colonoscopy?

There are a few alternative screening methods to colonoscopy, though they may not be as thorough:

  • Stool Tests: These check for blood or changes in your stool that could indicate cancer.
  • Virtual Colonoscopy: This is a CT scan that shows images of your colon. But if it finds a problem, you’ll still need a regular colonoscopy.
  • Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: This checks only part of the colon, not the full length.

Your doctor at GI Partners of Illinois can help you choose the right screening method based on your health needs.

Forms and Preparation

To help your test go smoothly, you’ll need to fill out some forms and follow prep steps. Our team will guide you on:

  • How to clean your colon
  • What foods to avoid
  • What to do about your medications

Why You Might Need a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is more than a check-up. It helps find, prevent, and treat colon issues. Your doctor may suggest it for these reasons:

  • Unexplained Symptoms: If you’re having abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea, or other issues, this procedure can help find the cause.
  • Screen for Colon Cancer:  Even if you feel fine, screening should start at age 45. If you have a family history, it may start sooner. Therefore, talk to your doctor about the right screening plan.
  • Check for Polyps: If you’ve had polyps before, your doctor will want to check again to catch new ones early.
  • Treat Certain Conditions: This test isn’t just for diagnosis. It can also be used for treatment, such as removing obstructions, placing stents, or addressing other colon-related issues.

Getting a colonoscopy is a smart step toward protecting your health.

FAQs

Most people should have their first colonoscopy at age 45 and then every 10 years, depending on their risk factors and health history. If your risk of colon cancer is elevated or if you are experiencing worrisome symptoms of colon cancer, your GI specialist may recommend undergoing a colonoscopy before reaching that age. 

No, most patients are given a sedative, so you won’t feel any pain. You may feel mild discomfort afterward, such as bloating, but it’s temporary. 

You will need to follow specific dietary and medication guidelines provided by your doctor. 

If polyps are found during the colonoscopy, they will likely be removed and sent for testing. Polyps are common and are often non-cancerous, but removing them helps prevent future issues. 

No, because of the sedative used, you will need someone to drive you home. It’s best to arrange for a friend or family member to assist you. 

During a colonoscopy, a flexible tube with a tiny camera is gently inserted into the rectum to examine the colon. The procedure usually takes about 30-60 minutes, but you should plan for a few hours at the clinic due to prep and recovery time.

Yes, following a clear-liquid diet the day before helps ensure your colon is clean. Additionally, avoiding certain foods beforehand makes it easier for the doctor to get clear images. To guide you through this, your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on what to eat and drink as part of the preparation.

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