The Test
A colonoscopy is a procedure that no one wants to think about. At some point in our lives, we will need. It’s is a diagnostic test that screens for colon cancer. Also, overgrowths, polyps, removed before they can turn into cancer. Preventing colon cancer is possible because this test is so available. This is why this test is so important (and why your doctor nags you to have it done)!
The doctor uses a scope or long, flexible tube with several internal chambers. The scope has a camera to visualization the inside of the colon. It also helps with the documentation of the examination.
Another contains light to provide better visualization. Another chamber is for a long wire-guided forceps or wire loop called a snare. The snare passes through the scope to remove polyps.
Samples of the deeper layers of tissue are lab tested. This sampling is more thorough testing. This is if there were cancer, rectal bleeding, or blood found in the stool.
Before the start of the procedure, sedation is given for comfort. The scope gets lubricated and then passed into the rectum. It’s passed through the twists and turns of the colon to see the entire colon for a complete exam.
Patients wake approximately 45 minutes to an hour after the first dose of medication. They feel as if they had taken a short nap. After awakening and swallowing without any problems, eating and drinking may resume. Lab sample results are available within 1-2 weeks. They are available from the office of the doctor that performed the test.
image: wikimedia.org
Colonoscopy Recommendations
Colon cancer is the 2nd largest cause of cancer in the United States. Yet, this type of cancer is preventable when recommended screenings. Most doctors agree, 50 years of age is when everyone should begin having colon screenings. Also, once every 10 years after that unless there are special circumstances. See the list below.
A family history of colon cancer. Many polyps from one or more 1st-degree relatives. Previous polyps
Any of these requires a repeat screening every 3-5 years. The initial procedure at 40 years old is recommended. Or, 10 years before the age the relative was when diagnosed with colon cancer.
Symptoms of bowel problems such as bleeding, diarrhea, or abdominal pain need screening. This is true no matter how young you are. Other conditions besides colon cancer could be present and causing the symptoms experienced. Early detection allows for quicker diagnosis and treatment.
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Contraindications to the test
As with any invasive procedure, there are risks. There’s a small risk for adverse reactions to the medication given for sedation. Also, there is a slight chance of perforation to the colon. But, the chances of these events are rare.Those at higher risk are pregnant women and those with ulcerative diseases of the bowel. Your doctor will tell you of risks during your initial exam in the office.
Preparing for the procedure
You’ve finally committed to an actual date for your colonoscopy. Now, for your prep work! Homework before a medical test? Really? Yes! Considering WHERE the test will be performed you will want to stick to a clear liquid diet the day before the test.
Clear liquids are anything that you can see through. Such as clear soup broth, Jell-O, or popsicles (if you melted a popsicle you could see through it like Kool-Aid). No solid foods, ice creams, or creamy soups are permitted.
Also, you will be given a strong laxative either as a liquid, pills, powder that is mixed with liquid. On the day of the procedure, you will not be permitted to have anything by mouth until the test is completed. This is necessary to clean out the colon so it can be seen completely.
Also, you aren’t allowed to have anything by mouth any time you get sedation. This is because having even a small amount of food or drink on your stomach can cause you to vomit while asleep.
If this occurs, there is a large risk that the vomit can enter the lungs causing pneumonia. If this happens, your one-day procedure will turn into an extended hospital stay. No one wants that!
You also may be told to stop certain medications for a specific amount of time before the procedure. Blood thinners are sometimes stopped 2 days before. This is to reduce the risk of bleeding from irritation the scope can cause. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions before and after your test.
Prep matters when getting a colonoscopy!
image: draingiehealth.com
Polyp Removal
Things to Remember with a Colonoscopy
- Colon cancer is preventable-Screening IS Important!
- Proper prep means better visualization of the colon
- Clear liquid diet the day before (no reds)
- Nothing to eat or drink the day of the procedure
- Provide a complete health history to your doctor
- List any close relatives with a history of cancer
- Discuss any allergies to foods, medications, or latex
- Provide a complete list of medications including over-the-counter and herbal supplements
- Talk with your doctor about any history of complications with anesthesia
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions if unsure of instructions
Colonoscopy: An Ounce of Prevention
No one looks forward to having medical procedures done, especially colonoscopies. When you consider how effective this test is in preventing cancer, it is worth the hassle. Keep up-to-date with health history and screenings to fight cancer before it starts!
