Colonoscopy is a medical screening procedure that is used to detect precancerous or cancerous growths in the colon. During this procedure, a doctor uses a colonoscope to examine the inside walls of your colon and rectum.

The colonoscope is a long, flexible tube with a tiny camera and light on it.

Preparing for a colonoscopy can be daunting, but with proper planning, it can be made easier. This article will help you understand what to expect before, during, and after your colonoscopy.

Why Do You Need a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is an important screening test for colon cancer. Doctors recommend regular colonoscopy screenings for people over the age of 50. Colon cancer often begins with polyps, or small growths, on the lining of the colon.

If not removed, these polyps can develop into cancer over time.

Colonoscopy can also help detect other problems in the colon, such as inflammation, ulcers, and bleeding.

Preparing for Your Colonoscopy

Preparing for a colonoscopy involves cleaning out your colon, so that the doctor can get a clear picture of your colon during the procedure. Your doctor will give you specific instructions that you must follow to prepare.

Here are some general guidelines:.

Fasting

You will be asked to stop eating solid food at least a day before the procedure. You may be allowed to drink clear liquids such as water, tea, or clear broths.

Be sure to follow your doctor’s specific guidelines about what you can and cannot consume.

Laxatives

You will be asked to take laxatives to clear your colon. This will involve drinking a large volume of solution that will make you have bowel movements until your colon is completely empty.

Some people may experience cramping and nausea during this process.

Dietary Changes

Your doctor may recommend changes to your diet several days before your colonoscopy. This may include avoiding certain foods or eating more fiber-rich foods to help your colon empty more easily.

Related Article Understanding the Colonoscopy Procedure Step by Step

Medication

During the preparation period, you may be asked to stop taking certain medications that could interfere with the procedure. This may include blood-thinning medications, herbal supplements, or medications that could affect your bowel movements.

What to Expect During Your Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in a hospital or clinic. Here’s what to expect during the procedure:.

Sedation

You will be given sedatives and pain medication to help you relax and feel comfortable during the procedure. You will likely be conscious but may not remember much of the procedure.

The Procedure

Your doctor will insert the colonoscope through your rectum and into your colon. The camera and light on the colonoscope will allow your doctor to examine the walls of your colon. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes.

If polyps are found, your doctor may remove them during the procedure and send them to a lab for testing.

Recovery

After the procedure, it may take some time for the sedatives to wear off. You may feel groggy and tired. You will need a ride home from the hospital or clinic, as you will not be able to drive after the procedure.

You may also experience some cramping and bloating after the procedure. This is normal and should go away within a day or two.

After Your Colonoscopy

After the colonoscopy, your doctor will discuss the results with you. If any polyps were removed during the procedure, your doctor may recommend follow-up care, such as more frequent colonoscopy screenings, to monitor for any new growths.

You may experience some minor side effects after the procedure, such as bloating, cramping, or a sore throat from the anesthesia. These should go away within a day or two.

If you experience any severe side effects, such as severe abdominal pain, fever, or rectal bleeding, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Conclusion

Colonoscopy is an important screening test for preventing colon cancer. While preparing for and undergoing the procedure can be intimidating, with proper planning and care, you can make the process easier.

If you have any questions about colonoscopy, talk to your doctor.