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Colonoscopy: Procedure, Benefits, Risks, and Preparation

Colonoscopy Test

WHAT IS COLONOSCOPY?

Colonoscopy is a procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the inside of your rectum and colon. It helps doctors identify issues like swollen tissue, ulcers, polyps, and cancer. At Islamabad Gastroenterology Associates, we have advanced facilities to perform colonoscopy tests in Islamabad for diagnosing colon cancer.

WHY DO DOCTORS USE COLONOSCOPY?

Doctors use colonoscopy to find the cause of symptoms such as:

  • Diarrhea
  • Bleeding from the anus
  • Abdominal pain
  • Unexplained weight loss

Colonoscopy is also used as a screening tool for colon and rectal cancer, allowing doctors to detect any abnormalities early on.

HOW CAN YOU PREPARE FOR A COLONOSCOPY?

To prepare for a successful colonoscopy, follow these guidelines:

  • Discuss your health problems and all medications (prescribed and over-the-counter), vitamins, and supplements you take with your doctor.
  • Follow the written instructions provided by your doctor for bowel preparation. This ensures that your intestines are clear of stool, allowing for a clear view during the procedure.

HOW DO DOCTORS PERFORM A COLONOSCOPY?

During the procedure, you will be given sedatives, anesthesia, or painkillers through a vein to keep you comfortable and pain-free. You’ll lie on a table while a colonoscope is inserted through your anus and into your rectum and colon. The camera on the scope transmits images to a monitor, enabling the doctor to examine your large intestine.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF COLONOSCOPY?

Like any medical procedure, colonoscopy carries some risks, including:

  • Bleeding
  • Perforation (tear or hole in the colon wall)
  • Reactions to sedatives, such as breathing or heart problems
  • Abdominal pain

In most cases, bleeding occurs when polyps are removed, but the doctor can promptly address this during the colonoscopy.

SEEK CARE RIGHT AWAY IF

After a colonoscopy, seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Persistent bloody bowel movements
  • Uncontrolled bleeding from the anus
  • Dizziness

Remember to consult with your doctor for any concerns or questions you may have about the colonoscopy procedure. They will provide you with the best guidance and care based on your individual situation.

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