Relevant Insight on Colonoscopy Process: Unlock the Details Here

Colonoscopies are an essential diagnostic tool used to detect and prevent colon cancer. Many people avoid getting a colonoscopy due to concerns about discomfort and pain during the procedure. Still, the reality is that with modern sedation techniques, colonoscopies are generally very well-tolerated.

If you're in the Oklahoma City area and considering a colonoscopy, you may wonder what to expect during the procedure. Colonoscopies are a standard diagnostic tool used to detect and prevent colon cancer. While the thought of undergoing a colonoscopy may be intimidating, the method is generally safe, well-tolerated, and relatively easy to experience.

Here are the detailed steps for getting a colonoscopy, including what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

The Process in Details

Step 1: Sedation

Before the procedure, you'll be given a sedative to help you relax and stay comfortable during the exam. The sedative will help you feel drowsy and may even put you to sleep so that you won't feel any pain or discomfort during the colonoscopy.

Step 2: The Procedure

Once you take the sedation, your gastroenterologist will insert a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope into your rectum and guide it through your colon. The colonoscope has a tiny camera attached to the end, which allows your gastroenterologist to examine the lining of your colon and look for abnormalities such as polyps or signs of inflammation or infection.

The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes to complete, and you'll be lying on your left side while the colonoscope is inserted. While colonoscopy is being performed, your gastroenterologist can view the images on a screen to look for abnormalities.

Step 3: Further Steps and Finishing Up

If any polyps or other abnormalities are found during the procedure, your gastroenterologist may choose to remove them or take a biopsy for further analysis. If this is the case, the procedure may take longer than usual.

Once the colonoscopy in OKC is finished, somebody will monitor you for a short period to ensure that you're feeling okay and that any sedatives have worn off. You may feel a bit drowsy or dizzy for a while after the procedure, so arranging a ride home from a friend or family member is essential.

Your gastroenterologist will provide specific post-procedure instructions, including when you can resume eating or drinking when you can resume taking any medications you were taking before the procedure, and when you can resume normal activities. You'll also receive the results of any biopsies or tests within a few days to a week.

The Result

While a colonoscopy may sound intimidating, most people find the experience relatively easy and pain-free. The sedative will help you feel relaxed and drowsy during the procedure, and you may not remember much of it afterward.

You may experience mild cramping or bloating after the exam, but this typically resolves within a few hours. Your gastroenterologist will advise you on specific post-procedure instructions, such as when you can resume eating or drinking.

Summing Up

After the procedure, your gastroenterologist will review the images taken during the exam and provide you with the results. If any polyps are found, they are typically removed during the procedure and sent for biopsy. You'll receive the biopsy results within a few days to a week. Book your schedule with Screen the City and get the process done in no time.

**Disclaimer: This blog content does not intend to offer a doctor’s advice and mentions no relationship between any patient and the care provider.