Colonoscopy is one of the most important investigations used in gastrointestinal system disease. Diseases for which the procedure is used include suspected tumors, ulcers, inflammatory bowel diseases and polyps among others. The main piece of equipment used here is the colonoscope. For some of these conditions, the procedure may actually be used as a therapeutic intervention. Before undergoing colonoscopy Morrilton AR residents need to understand a number of things beforehand.
The commonest reason as to why doctors recommend this procedure is screening for cancers and precancerous conditions. Persons that are at the greatest risk are those that have a positive family history, especially in a first-degree relative. The colonoscope is used to obtain specimens of suspicious tissues and these are later subjected to histological examination by a pathologist.
Since the procedure is quite invasive, one has to be adequately prepared before they undergo the same. Among the most important steps in the preparation is what is referred to as colon prep (or simply colon cleansing). To achieve this, one has to take laxatives for one or two days and remain on a liquid diet for the same duration. The entry of newer laxatives have reduced this time and the process can be started as late as the night before the procedure.
The main types of liquid diet that one should use during the colon prep include tea, coffee, clear juices, water, and gelatin. Drinks to be avoided are those that have a red, pink, or purple color such as grape juice and red wine among others. This is because such drinks have the capability of staining the mucosal surface of the colon and changing its appearance. Expect increased bouts of hunger and diarrhea when on such a diet.
A medical history and a physical examination are often necessary before the test is performed. Your drug history is particularly important. This is because drugs such as aspirin and blood thinners have the potential to increase the risk of bleeding. The drugs should, therefore, be stopped two weeks before the investigation at the very latest. Cigarette smoking has the same effect and should also be stopped.
The colonoscope we usually inserted through the anal verge and pushed upwards slowly as the colon is examined. It is re-examined as it is withdrawn. Some discomfort may be experienced as the colonoscope is inserted into the colon. A sedative drug is usually administered to reduce this discomfort. If you feel abdominal cramping as well, breathe in deeply.
On average, the procedure takes about one hour except when it gets complicated. In most places, it is offered as a day case which means that you can go home on the same day that the procedure is carried out. You may be required to spend a few hours at the facility as the sedation wears off. Once you are released from hospital make a point of re-hydrating yourself adequately.
Colonoscopy is used both for diagnosis and treatment depending on the condition in question. The procedure is largely safe if the colon is normal. The rare side effects that may be encountered are fairly easy to control. One should remember that the number of investigations needed tends to vary depending on the condition. A number of cases may need to follow up to establish whether they are progressing.
The commonest reason as to why doctors recommend this procedure is screening for cancers and precancerous conditions. Persons that are at the greatest risk are those that have a positive family history, especially in a first-degree relative. The colonoscope is used to obtain specimens of suspicious tissues and these are later subjected to histological examination by a pathologist.
Since the procedure is quite invasive, one has to be adequately prepared before they undergo the same. Among the most important steps in the preparation is what is referred to as colon prep (or simply colon cleansing). To achieve this, one has to take laxatives for one or two days and remain on a liquid diet for the same duration. The entry of newer laxatives have reduced this time and the process can be started as late as the night before the procedure.
The main types of liquid diet that one should use during the colon prep include tea, coffee, clear juices, water, and gelatin. Drinks to be avoided are those that have a red, pink, or purple color such as grape juice and red wine among others. This is because such drinks have the capability of staining the mucosal surface of the colon and changing its appearance. Expect increased bouts of hunger and diarrhea when on such a diet.
A medical history and a physical examination are often necessary before the test is performed. Your drug history is particularly important. This is because drugs such as aspirin and blood thinners have the potential to increase the risk of bleeding. The drugs should, therefore, be stopped two weeks before the investigation at the very latest. Cigarette smoking has the same effect and should also be stopped.
The colonoscope we usually inserted through the anal verge and pushed upwards slowly as the colon is examined. It is re-examined as it is withdrawn. Some discomfort may be experienced as the colonoscope is inserted into the colon. A sedative drug is usually administered to reduce this discomfort. If you feel abdominal cramping as well, breathe in deeply.
On average, the procedure takes about one hour except when it gets complicated. In most places, it is offered as a day case which means that you can go home on the same day that the procedure is carried out. You may be required to spend a few hours at the facility as the sedation wears off. Once you are released from hospital make a point of re-hydrating yourself adequately.
Colonoscopy is used both for diagnosis and treatment depending on the condition in question. The procedure is largely safe if the colon is normal. The rare side effects that may be encountered are fairly easy to control. One should remember that the number of investigations needed tends to vary depending on the condition. A number of cases may need to follow up to establish whether they are progressing.
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