Useful Facts About Colonoscopy Conway AR

By Carl Wilson


Colonoscopy is the examination used for detecting changes of any abnormalities in the colon and the rectum. For the procedure, there is insertion of a long flexible tube into the rectum. There is also a small tiny camera at the tip which allows a doctor to view inner sections of the colon. On occasions, abnormal tissues are gotten rid of using a scope. In considering colonoscopy Conway AR residents need to know what is involved.

There are various instances whereby a doctor recommends this procedure. One of the main reasons is to investigate the intestine for any problems. This is done so that the doctor is able to check possible causes of pain in the abdomen, chronic constipation or bleeding. It will also be useful when investigating causes of serious forms of diarrhea in individuals.

The aim of the procedure is screening for cancer of the colon. For people of 50 years and over, there is greater risk of colon cancer and thus doctors will recommend that colonoscopy is done at least every ten years. In some cases it is done even more frequently. The procedure might also be carried out to inspect for presence of polyps. In the case of people that have had polyps, follow up is necessary to ascertain that they are not recurring. It is also done to minimize risk of colon cancer.

There are a few risks that one should expect when going for the procedure. For instance, there are people that might have adverse reaction to sedatives used during the exam. In some cases also, one might experience bleeding from the section where samples of tissues were taken, or where polyps were removed. Further, one might experience tear within the colon or within the rectal wall. The risks and complications are normally discussed by the doctor before the procedure begins.

Proper preparation for the procedure is important. You will be expected to empty the colon because if there are any residues in it, they may block view of the colon when the examination is being done. In order to empty the colon, doctors might recommend that the person follows strict diet before treatment. You are not supposed to eat any solid foods before treatment. Furthermore, drinks are supposed to be limited to such clear liquids as tea, coffee or water.

Laxatives are of a lot of help too. These are usually taken as pills or in liquid form. They are taken either the night before treatment or hours to. This is useful so that the colon is emptied. A patient is required to disclose any medications they may be using. This helps the doctor to determine if they will have negative effects on the procedure.

After one is examined, it takes some one hour or more for them to recover from sedatives that were used. Full rest is required before normal work resumes. One may notice blood with first bowel movements but this is never supposed to be any cause for worry. It is important to notify the doctor if the blood is persistent for some time.

Colonoscopy will be considered as negative if the doctor does not get abnormalities in the colon. It is regarded as positive in case there are tissues or polyps which are normal. Doctors advice on how one should handle the recovery process.




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