Colonoscopy is an investigation that is performed by both physicians (gastroenterologists) and surgeons. It provides important information about varied conditions affecting the large gut. An instrument known as a colonoscope is needed for this purpose. Some of the conditions that may be diagnosed include ulcers, tumors, polyps and other bleeding lesions. There several important things relating to colonoscopy Morrilton AR residents should understand if they wish to have the procedure.
Apart from diagnosing abnormalities in the gut, there are a number of other uses of this investigation. One of them is the removal of tissue specimens from the affected regions. Some of the lesions can be removed through excision using the colonoscopes. Another important use is in the screening of cancerous and precancerous lesions. The colonoscope is fitted with a camera that can capture images of diseased parts of the gut that can be used for records.
One needs to be adequately prepared before they are subjected to the investigation. The most important task is to cleanse the colon, a procedure that is undertaken in one to two to days. Colon prep is done using laxatives. There are a number of laxatives that can be used just one day before the test but still achieve remarkable results.
A liquid diet is recommended during the period of the prep. The options include water, clear juices, tea, coffee and gelatin. Grape juice, fruit punch and any other drinks that are red or purple in color should be avoided. Due to the intake of the liquid diet, one may get hungry frequently since the stomach is emptied within a very short time of eating. Diarrhea is common.
Part of the evaluation by the doctor will include obtaining your drug history. Drugs such as blood thinners and aspirin (as well as other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs) are a risk factor for excessive bleeding. If you are taking any of these drugs you should stop them at least a week before undergoing the test. You will also be asked to consent to the procedure in writing.
Sedation is usually required to minimize pain and discomfort. You will feel as if you are having bowel movements as the colonoscope is maneuvered through the colon. Some people also complain of abdominal cramping. One of the things that one may do to minimize this experience is to take a deep breath which helps relax the walls of the abdominal wall. Passage of gas (flatus) also helps relieve the cramps.
The test lasts for between 30 and 45 minutes. In some cases, it may take a bit longer. You may feel a bit sleepy afterwards hence you will be retained in the clinic for a few hours just to be observed. One needs to drink as much water (and clear fluids) as possible to replace those that have been lost during the colon prep procedure. It takes a short while before you can resume your normal diet.
The risks that are associated with the procedure are minimal. Bleeding is perhaps the commonest and is most likely to be encountered if there are friable lesions within the lumen of the gut. Other complications include vomiting, dizziness and fever. Ensure that you call your doctor if you get any of these complications.
Apart from diagnosing abnormalities in the gut, there are a number of other uses of this investigation. One of them is the removal of tissue specimens from the affected regions. Some of the lesions can be removed through excision using the colonoscopes. Another important use is in the screening of cancerous and precancerous lesions. The colonoscope is fitted with a camera that can capture images of diseased parts of the gut that can be used for records.
One needs to be adequately prepared before they are subjected to the investigation. The most important task is to cleanse the colon, a procedure that is undertaken in one to two to days. Colon prep is done using laxatives. There are a number of laxatives that can be used just one day before the test but still achieve remarkable results.
A liquid diet is recommended during the period of the prep. The options include water, clear juices, tea, coffee and gelatin. Grape juice, fruit punch and any other drinks that are red or purple in color should be avoided. Due to the intake of the liquid diet, one may get hungry frequently since the stomach is emptied within a very short time of eating. Diarrhea is common.
Part of the evaluation by the doctor will include obtaining your drug history. Drugs such as blood thinners and aspirin (as well as other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs) are a risk factor for excessive bleeding. If you are taking any of these drugs you should stop them at least a week before undergoing the test. You will also be asked to consent to the procedure in writing.
Sedation is usually required to minimize pain and discomfort. You will feel as if you are having bowel movements as the colonoscope is maneuvered through the colon. Some people also complain of abdominal cramping. One of the things that one may do to minimize this experience is to take a deep breath which helps relax the walls of the abdominal wall. Passage of gas (flatus) also helps relieve the cramps.
The test lasts for between 30 and 45 minutes. In some cases, it may take a bit longer. You may feel a bit sleepy afterwards hence you will be retained in the clinic for a few hours just to be observed. One needs to drink as much water (and clear fluids) as possible to replace those that have been lost during the colon prep procedure. It takes a short while before you can resume your normal diet.
The risks that are associated with the procedure are minimal. Bleeding is perhaps the commonest and is most likely to be encountered if there are friable lesions within the lumen of the gut. Other complications include vomiting, dizziness and fever. Ensure that you call your doctor if you get any of these complications.
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