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What to Expect During a Colonoscopy Procedureby: Shane Molliwan
A colonoscopy is an important procedure that can be performed by your Houston gastroenterologist to detect colon cancer or the presence of other gastrointestinal diseases such as Crohn's Disease or ulcerative colitis. It is important to be screened for colon cancer if you are over the age of 50 or have a history of colon cancer in your family. It is a simple and safe procedure and understanding what happens during the colonoscopy may make you feel more comfortable about having the procedure.
A colonoscopy is performed using a long, thin instrument inserted into the colon. A small camera is attached to the instrument and inserted through the rectum. This camera gives your Houston gastroenterologist a detailed picture of the entire colon area. If anything is found of concern, the doctor will take a biopsy for further testing.
The colonoscopy procedure makes it possible for the doctor to remove an abnormal growth from your colon without surgery. These abnormal tissue growths are called polyps. The colonoscopy is the best method Houston doctors have for detecting the presence of polyps or other abnormalities. This procedure has helped doctors detect thousands of colon cancers in the early stages when there is a better chance of recovery for patients.
The procedure normally takes less than one hour. You will be sedated during the procedure so you will not feel any discomfort. Because of the after-effects of sedation, you should have someone available to drive you home after the procedure. You may experience bloating after the procedure, but it should not last long. Most patients are able to resume a normal diet the same day after having a colonoscopy performed.
A colon prep is necessary before a colonoscopy. This is so the colon can be thoroughly cleaned out to allow a thorough view of the area. It is important to follow the doctor’s colon prep instructions carefully. You may have to drink a bowel preparation. If you experience nausea while trying to drink the solution, try sipping it slowly. If you experience extreme nausea while trying to drink the solution, you should contact your health care provider. You will not be able to eat or drink anything for two to three hours before the procedure. If you do not follow the directions, the colonoscopy will not be successful and you may have to have the procedure repeated.
It is recommended that people over the age of 50 should have a colonoscopy at least once every 10 years. If there is a history of colon cancer in your family or if you have other risk factors, you may need to have the procedure more frequently. A Houston gastroenterologist has all the modern diagnostic equipment needed to perform a colonoscopy. It is a safe procedure, and you have nothing to worry about in having the procedure performed. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor who can give you more information about what to expect during a colonoscopy.
Colonoscopy Houston - Established by Houston gastroenterologist Dr. Barry D. Winston, North Houston Gastroenterology Clinic (NHGC) and Houston Colon Cancer Screening Center (HCCSC) offer the most advanced diagnostic and treatment methods for colorectal cancer screening, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, acid reflux disease, Crohn’s Disease, and more. To learn more about colonoscopy in Houston, contact North Houston Gastroenterology Clinic 281.440.3618 or visit http://www.gi-clinic.com/ for more information.
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