A colonoscopy is an essential diagnostic tool that finds signs of cancer early, when it’s treatable. Most people know about the prep aspect of the test, but what happens afterward?
Knowing what to expect during every part of the colonoscopy is crucial. At Gateway Gastroenterology, our team of experienced doctors offers diagnostic tools and treatments for GI disorders, including colonoscopies.
We talk you through every step of the procedure and what to expect afterward so you’re entirely prepared on the big day.
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a long, flexible scope with a camera to look inside the large intestine and rectum. It's essential for colon cancer screening and prevention, as well as for finding other causes of GI distress.
Before a colonoscopy, you must take a prep that cleans out the intestines. The prep usually involves a stool softener and laxative taken the day before your colonoscopy to ensure we can see inside the large intestine.
You will have light anesthesia during the procedure so that you won’t feel anything. When you are asleep, we insert the scope into the rectum and advance it slowly to see inside the large intestine.
The procedure is quick, and we take pictures along the way to show you. We can also take biopsies and tissue samples if necessary to rule out GI issues.
Right after a colonoscopy, we take you to the recovery room. You may be asleep or awake, but if the latter, you will feel groggy. You may also feel disoriented, which is normal for the first few hours after the anesthetic.
The time you need in the recovery room varies, depending on how you respond to the anesthetic. We monitor your vital signs and come to see you to discuss the results of the procedure.
You may feel bloated or cramping afterward, a normal result of the laxatives and stool softener. There may also be some light bleeding from the rectum, especially if we took biopsies.
After a colonoscopy, you’ll face some restrictions while you recover. You will need someone to drive you home because the sedation can impair functioning for up to 24 hours. You should also avoid operating heavy machinery or making important decisions during this time.
You can eat right after the procedure, but we suggest starting with a liquid diet. You may gradually increase the type and amount of solid foods, but avoid high-fiber, fried, or spicy foods, as they’re hard to digest.
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours, as it may interact with the sedatives. Refrain from doing intense physical activity for a day or so to let your body return to normal.
We will call you a day or so after the procedure to see how you are doing and to give you any other results. However, it’s essential to call us sooner if you have any worries or complications.
Call our office immediately if you experience severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain after your colonoscopy. It’s also crucial to call if you have excessive rectal bleeding or a fever, as either could indicate a complication.
Call or message Gateway Gastroenterology today to schedule an appointment for a colonoscopy. We have offices in St. Louis, Ballwin, and Chesterfield, Missouri.