Information Regarding Colonoscopy Morrilton AR Clients Should Know
Colonoscopy is a form of endoscopic investigation indicated for diseases and medical conditions that affect the mucosal layer of the rectum and the colon (large intestine). Apart from assessing the extent of disease, the procedure is also used in some cases to provide the required treatment. Examples of conditions which may be diagnosed or managed using this procedure include bleeding lesions (ulcers), cancerous and precancerous lesions and inflammatory lesions among others. There are a number of things related to colonoscopy Morrilton AR residents need to know.
The commonest indication for the procedure is screening for cancerous conditions. This is most important among persons that have a positive family history of the same. All suspected cancerous or precancerous conditions need to be examined by a pathologist before a definitive diagnosis is made. Colonoscopy makes it possible to obtain biopsy specimens from the diseased areas of the gut and these can then be sent to a pathologist for histology.
The procedure is a bit invasive with potential complications which requires that one prepares adequately. Cleaning the colon (colon prep) is the most important part at this stage. Traditionally this has been done by administering laxatives for one or two days and remaining on a liquid diet for the same duration of time. The practice has been changing, however, with the introduction of more effective laxatives that can be administered the night before the procedure.
The main types of liquid diet that one should use during the colon prep include tea, coffee, clear juices, water and gelatin. Drinks to be avoided are those that have a red, pink, or purple color such as grape juice and red wine among others. This is because, such drinks have the capability of staining the mucosal surface of the colon and changing its appearance. Expect increased bouts of hunger and diarrhea when on such a diet.
A medical history and a physical examination are often necessary before the test is performed. Your drug history is particularly important. This is because drugs such as aspirin and blood thinners have the potential to increase the risk of bleeding. The drugs should, therefore, be stopped two weeks before the investigation at the very latest. Cigarette smoking has the same effect and should also be stopped.
The colonoscope us usually inserted through the anal verge and pushed upwards slowly as the colon is examined. It is re-examined as it is withdrawn. Some discomfort may be experienced as the colonoscope is inserted into the colon. A sedative drug is usually administered to reduce this discomfort. If you feel abdominal cramping as well, breathe in deeply.
The test should take about one hour or less except when complications are encountered. You will be retained in the facility for a couple of hours to allow for the effects of the sedative to wear and released to go home on the same day. It is important that you re-hydrate yourself adequately thereafter to replace the fluids and electrolytes lost during the colon prep.
The benefits of colonoscopy are two fold; it can be used as a diagnostic tool as well as an intervention. Removal of benign polyps is one of the most useful interventions that can be undertaken. Commonly encountered side effects include dizziness, fever and vomiting. Fortunately, they are all self-limiting. Bear in mind that the number of investigations needed varies from one person to another.
The commonest indication for the procedure is screening for cancerous conditions. This is most important among persons that have a positive family history of the same. All suspected cancerous or precancerous conditions need to be examined by a pathologist before a definitive diagnosis is made. Colonoscopy makes it possible to obtain biopsy specimens from the diseased areas of the gut and these can then be sent to a pathologist for histology.
The procedure is a bit invasive with potential complications which requires that one prepares adequately. Cleaning the colon (colon prep) is the most important part at this stage. Traditionally this has been done by administering laxatives for one or two days and remaining on a liquid diet for the same duration of time. The practice has been changing, however, with the introduction of more effective laxatives that can be administered the night before the procedure.
The main types of liquid diet that one should use during the colon prep include tea, coffee, clear juices, water and gelatin. Drinks to be avoided are those that have a red, pink, or purple color such as grape juice and red wine among others. This is because, such drinks have the capability of staining the mucosal surface of the colon and changing its appearance. Expect increased bouts of hunger and diarrhea when on such a diet.
A medical history and a physical examination are often necessary before the test is performed. Your drug history is particularly important. This is because drugs such as aspirin and blood thinners have the potential to increase the risk of bleeding. The drugs should, therefore, be stopped two weeks before the investigation at the very latest. Cigarette smoking has the same effect and should also be stopped.
The colonoscope us usually inserted through the anal verge and pushed upwards slowly as the colon is examined. It is re-examined as it is withdrawn. Some discomfort may be experienced as the colonoscope is inserted into the colon. A sedative drug is usually administered to reduce this discomfort. If you feel abdominal cramping as well, breathe in deeply.
The test should take about one hour or less except when complications are encountered. You will be retained in the facility for a couple of hours to allow for the effects of the sedative to wear and released to go home on the same day. It is important that you re-hydrate yourself adequately thereafter to replace the fluids and electrolytes lost during the colon prep.
The benefits of colonoscopy are two fold; it can be used as a diagnostic tool as well as an intervention. Removal of benign polyps is one of the most useful interventions that can be undertaken. Commonly encountered side effects include dizziness, fever and vomiting. Fortunately, they are all self-limiting. Bear in mind that the number of investigations needed varies from one person to another.
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