4 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before Getting a Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy can help in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel syndrome and colon cancer. It can also aid in the treatment and prevention of colon cancer. Dr. Vinay Katukuri, MD, our board-certified gastroenterologist is dedicated to helping you through the colonoscopy procedure, providing a comfortable and comprehensive procedure that promotes digestive health. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Kissimmee FL, and Orlando FL.
Table of Content:
What can a colonoscopy detect?
How should i prepare for my colonoscopy?
What can i expect at my first colonoscopy appointment?
How long does a colonoscopy take?
Colonoscopy is typically performed as a diagnostic tool to investigate issues like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and changes in bowel habits. It is also commonly used as a screening tool to detect colorectal cancer and other abnormalities in people who are at an elevated risk of developing such conditions.
At Advanced Gastroenterology, our team of specialists would be happy to answer any questions that you have about colonoscopies. We offer safe, professional, and effective testing so that you can get the answers you need quickly. Contact us today for more information or book an appointment online.
There are many conditions that a colonoscopy can detect.
One of the main reasons for performing the procedure is to screen for colon cancer, which is the third most common cancer in both men and women. A colonoscopy can detect precancerous polyps, small growths on the inside of the colon that can eventually develop into cancer if left untreated.
In addition to detecting cancer and polyps, a colonoscopy can also identify other conditions that affect the colon. These include inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
A colonoscopy can also detect diverticulitis (which is a condition where small pouches develop in the wall of the colon and become inflamed), hemorrhoids (which are swollen veins in the rectum and anus), and fissures (which are small tears in the lining of the anus).
Preparing for a colonoscopy can be a daunting task, but it is highly important for a successful and accurate examination. Here are some tips on how you can prepare for it with minimal discomfort and inconvenience:
Understand the procedure: Consult with your doctor and make sure you completely understand the procedure, its benefits, risks, and what to expect during and after the procedure.
Follow your doctor’s instruction: You will receive specific instructions from your doctor on how to prepare for the procedure. The preparation usually includes a bowel cleanse or a laxative to clear out your colon from any residue.
Adjust your diet: The day before the colonoscopy, it’s essential to eat a light meal that’s low-fiber and easily digestible. Avoid solid food such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products that contain seeds as well as meats and high-fat foods. Drinking clear liquids such as water, clear soup, and sports drinks would help keep your body hydrated and keep your electrolyte levels balanced.
Plan for transportation: The procedure is usually performed under sedation, so make sure to plan for transportation to and from the medical facility. You may experience discomfort and drowsiness after the procedure, so it’s crucial to have someone help transport you home.
Dress comfortably: Wearing loose, comfortable clothing is recommended as you will be asked to change into a gown when you arrive at the medical facility. Avoid wearing jewelry, contact lenses, or makeup as they may interfere with the procedure.
Your first colonoscopy appointment may seem daunting, but it is a routine medical procedure that can help detect and prevent potential health problems.
You will be asked to fast for a certain period of time prior to the appointment and may be given laxatives or other medication to prepare your colon for the procedure.
During the appointment, you will be given sedatives and the doctor will use a small camera attached to a thin, flexible tube to examine your colon for any abnormalities. The entire procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
You may experience some mild discomfort or cramping afterwards, but this is normal and should go away on its own. Your doctor will discuss the results of the colonoscopy with you and provide any necessary follow-up care.
A colonoscopy usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour to complete, although the exact time may vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the length and complexity of the colon, the patient’s level of sedation, and the experience level of the doctor performing the colonoscopy.
After the colonoscopy is complete, the doctor will discuss the findings with the patient and provide any necessary treatment or follow-up recommendations. The patient will also need someone to drive them home, as the sedation can impair their ability to drive.
If you’re looking for more information about colonoscopies, contact us at Advanced Gastroenterology of Central Florida. We would be happy to walk you through the process so you feel confident in your care moving forward. Or, if you’re ready, schedule an appointment online at your earliest convenience. We have convenient locations to serve you in Kissimmee FL, and Orlando FL. We serve patients from Kissimmee FL, Orlando FL, St. Cloud FL, Meadow Woods FL, Celebration FL, Buenaventura Lakes FL, Williamsburg FL, Hunters Creek FL, and surrounding areas.
Additional Services You May Need
▸ Colonoscopy
▸ GERD/Acid Reflux
▸ Colon Cancer
▸ Digestive Problems
▸ Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
▸ PEG Tube Placement
▸ Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
▸ Small Bowel Endoscopy
▸ Esophageal/Mucosal Endoscopy
▸ Radiofrequency Ablation
▸ ERCP
▸ EUS and FNA
▸ Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)
▸ Pseudocyst Drainage
▸ Stricture Dilation
▸ Fistula Management
▸ Weight Loss Program
▸ Hemorrhoid Banding