Colonoscopy 101

What exactly is a colonoscopy? It has been defined as a thorough exam that takes a deep look inside- or endoscopic test- inside the colon and also part of the small bowel using a camera that is passed through the anus. Colonoscopies are beneficial because they can help in detecting ulcerations and polyps, making for a diagnosis and then treatment can be performed. Medical imaging technology has helped greatly with this form of procedure.

Colonoscopies generally are needed when a person has gastrointestinal problems, such as hemorrhage, changes in bowel habit or they suspect they might have malignancies. The procedure can detect is colon cancer is present in the body.

There are certain conditions that must be present for the colonoscopy to be done. For example, the colon must be free of fecal matter. This means no toxic buildup on the colon walls. The person undergoing treatment is put on a one- to three-day diet consisting of low fiber and/or clear fluids, including water, apple juice, bouillon and sports drinks. They also should not take any aspirin or drink any beverages with color.

Recovery time often is needed following a colonoscopy, generally to allow the sedative to wear off. Colonoscopies range between 20 minutes and a half hour on average. Common side effects following the procedure include flatulence and wind pain, which is caused by air that goes into the colon during the procedure. Colonoscopies are seen as better than X-rays because therapeutic interventions can be made during the procedure.

By: JP Richardson

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