If the word “colonoscopy” brings on some anxiety, you’re not alone. An essential part of maintaining your overall health and wellness, especially if you’re approaching 45 or older, we’re here with expert advice to help put your mind at ease so you can plan your colonoscopy without unnecessary added stress.
People avoid getting a colonoscopy due to embarrassment, fear, stigma, lack of information and more. But with colon cancer on the rise in younger generations, it’s important to get screened as it’s the best way to prevent colon cancer or start treating it early. The best way to overcome most of the barriers is through awareness and knowing what to expect. Keep reading to learn what our general surgery expert, Christopher Keeler, DO, has to say about the colonoscopy.
Before Getting Your Colonoscopy
On preparing, Dr. Keeler explains, “Before your colonoscopy, your doctor will give you thorough and specific instructions on how to prepare for a colonoscopy, which are important to read carefully and follow to a tee so that your colonoscopy goes smoothly.”
These instructions will likely include information about:
- How to take a laxative or drink a special fluid to help clean out your colon
- Restrictions on eating or drinking anything after midnight on the day of your screening
- Making transportation/caregiver arrangements to return home after your outpatient procedure
Step-by-Step: When It’s Time for Your Exam
To help your colonoscopy experience stay stress-free, Dr. Keeler says, “Your colonoscopy team will include your surgeon, an anesthesiologist and dedicated nurses — all with you each step of the way to make the process safe and easy for you.”
Here is a step-by-step process of what will happen at the time of your colonoscopy:
- Remove any jewelry or other objects that might get in the way during the procedure.
- Remove your clothing and change into the gown you’re given to wear.
- You will be given relaxing (sedating) medicine through an IV line. You may be drowsy or fully asleep during the exam.
- You will usually be asked to lie on your left side with your knees pulled up towards your chest.
- Air may be injected into your bowel during the procedure. This makes it easier to see the inside surfaces. A gentle water jet may also be used to clean the lining of your colon, and a suction device may be used to remove any liquid stool.
- The doctor will check your colon and may take photos. If a polyp is seen, it may be removed, or, if it’s larger, it may be left until another procedure can be scheduled.
After Your Colonoscopy
The colonoscopy procedure usually takes 30 minutes. Once your procedure is finished:
- You will be taken to the recovery room to be monitored. Your recovery process will depend on the type of sedative you received.
- Once your blood pressure, pulse and breathing are stable and you are awake and alert, you will be released to go home.
- Your doctor may discuss the results of your exam right away, or a follow-up visit may be required.
- After you’re discharged, your caregiver will drive you home.
What to Do at Home Following Your Colonoscopy
Once you’re home, there are a few things to consider:
- You may have gas right after the test, but please know that this is normal. Walking and moving about may help to ease any mild gas pain.
- You can usually eat whatever you feel you can tolerate after the procedure. Some people find it helpful to start with small, bland meals.
- You should not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours. You may be asked to drink extra fluids to make sure you don’t get dehydrated.
While it’s perfectly normal to greet your colonoscopy with apprehension, we hope learning more about what to expect puts your mind at ease.
Colonoscopies can not only detect cancer, they can prevent it from occurring. Talk to your doctor about when it might be time for a colonoscopy, and visit GetScreenedToday.com to learn more about our care and services.
