A colonoscopy is a simple, minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera is placed into the large bowel to visualize and treat a number of problems that may occur in this area.

Both a diagnostic and a preventative procedure, a colonoscopy allows your gastroenterologist to diagnose various bowel issues and diseases, including colon cancer, and also to remove pre-cancerous polyps before colon cancer can develop. Because the patient is sedated, the procedure causes little to no discomfort.

Frequently, gastroenterologists encounter patients with asymptomatic polyps during colonoscopies who are, in fact, in the early stages of cancer. Therefore, obtaining a screening is of utmost significance

Gender does not play a role in the recommended timing of screening. The initial colonoscopy for both men and women should commence at age 50, whereas African Americans should begin at age 45, unless there exist familial history or other relevant concerns. In the case of a family history of colon cancer, a screening ought to be conducted ten years before the age of diagnosis of the affected family member.

A colonoscopy procedure typically causes mild discomfort. Gastroenterologists can provide intravenous sedation to patients for optimal comfort. 

After the completion of the colonoscopy procedure, patients may experience some bloating and abdominal discomfort, which typically lasts only a few hours. Passing gas and going to the bathroom can help alleviate these symptoms. During the colonoscopy, air is introduced into the colon to expand it and enhance visibility. While your NHS or private gastroenterologist extracts most of the air before the procedure ends, some residual air may remain and contribute to the bloating and discomfort.

Post-procedure, you may experience bloating and mild abdominal discomfort which generally subsides within a few hours. Evacuating gas by defecation is usually effective in resolving the symptoms. The bloating is due to the administration of air by the gastroenterologist to distend the colon for enhanced visualization of the bowel. Although the gastroenterologist removes most of the air before concluding the procedure, some residual air may cause the mentioned symptoms.

The colonoscopy is a safe, minimally invasive outpatient procedure that takes about 45 minutes. You are able to leave the facility once your sedation has worn off with a ride, and can return to a normal diet the same evening.

The day before the colonoscopy, the patient will be instructed to consume a clear liquid diet and a colon cleanse in the evening. Five hours prior to the colonoscopy, the patient will need to complete the second phase of the colon cleanse preparation.

Following instructions about diet and bowel prep can have a tremendous impact on your colonoscopy success rates. It’s extremely important for patients to take the adequate medication and to clean their bowels completely to allow your physician to visualize the inside lining of the colon so polyps and other abnormalities are not missed.

During the procedure, intravenous sedation will be administered to ensure the patient’s utmost comfort. Post-procedure, the medication will remain in the patient’s system even though they may feel lucid enough to leave the clinic independently. As a precautionary measure, it is crucial to arrange for a family member or friend to provide transportation home.”

It’s normal to feel anxious before a colonoscopy since it can be an unfamiliar experience. However, with the use of IV sedation, patients often feel quite comfortable during the procedure. Many are surprised when it’s finished, as they may have been anticipating more discomfort. After the procedure, patients commonly find that the process was less daunting than they expected.

Colon polyps are abnormal growths that develop in the colon lining, typically starting as small as an ant and gradually growing over several years to the size of a pea. Polyps can take various shapes, such as mushroom or cauliflower. A colonoscopy procedure is an effective way to detect and remove polyps

The size of a polyp generally correlates with the risk of developing cancer, but all polyps removed during a procedure are sent to pathology for further analysis. There are typically two types of polyps: hyperplastic or benign polyps, which are not cancerous and pose no risk of cancer, and adenomatous polyps, which have a malignant potential and increase the risk of developing polyps in other areas of the bowel. If adenomatous polyps are detected, patients may need to be reevaluated sooner.

OGD is a safe and elective diagnostic procedure that allows visualization of the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This noninvasive procedure can aid in the diagnosis of various conditions and determine the optimal course of treatment for the patient’s specific medical concern.

Constipation describes a condition in which you have fewer than three bowel movements a week.

Drinking plenty of water while eating a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help prevent constipation. Some foods that promote healthy digestion include bran, whole grains, and beans. Exercising regularly also helps by pumping blood to the intestines and keeping them functioning properly. If eating a healthy diet and exercising are not resolving your constipation, it’s important to visit a NHS or private gastroenterologist to prevent more serious side effects associated with constipation.