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What to expect at your colonoscopy

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What to Expect at Your Colonoscopy

Introduction

A colonoscopy is a common procedure used to examine the inside of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. This guide provides an overview of what to expect during the process, specifically tailored for patients in the United Kingdom.

Before the Procedure

A few days prior to your colonoscopy, you will be asked to follow a special diet and take a laxative to clear your bowel. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions to prepare. Ensure you follow them closely to help achieve the most accurate results.

Day of the Colonoscopy

On the day of the procedure, you will be asked to fast, typically for 6-8 hours beforehand. At the healthcare facility, you’ll change into a hospital gown and be prepped for the colonoscopy. You may receive a sedative to help you relax; this will make you drowsy, so arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards.

During the Procedure

The procedure usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes. You will lie on your side while a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope is inserted into your rectum. The colonoscope is equipped with a light and camera to take images of your colon. You might feel some cramping or pressure during the process, but it should not be painful. The sedative will help keep you comfortable.

After the Procedure

Post-colonoscopy, you will stay in a recovery area until the effects of the sedative wear off. This can take a couple of hours. You may experience some bloating or gas, but this usually subsides quickly. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and provide further instructions if polyps or other abnormalities were found.

Conclusion

While a colonoscopy may seem daunting, it is a straightforward procedure that can provide valuable insights into your digestive health. Following your healthcare provider's instructions for preparation and post-procedure care will help ensure a smooth experience. Remember, colonoscopies can detect issues early, making them a crucial step in maintaining your wellbeing.

What to Expect at Your Colonoscopy

Introduction

A colonoscopy is a test to look inside your large intestine (colon) and bottom (rectum). This guide tells you what will happen during the test, especially for people in the UK.

Before the Procedure

A few days before the colonoscopy, you need to eat special foods and take medicine to clean out your bowel. Your doctor will tell you exactly what to do. Make sure you follow these steps carefully so the test results are good.

Day of the Colonoscopy

On the day of the test, you should not eat for 6 to 8 hours before. At the hospital, you will put on a special gown. The doctors will get you ready for the test. You might get medicine to help you relax and feel sleepy, so you need someone to take you home afterwards.

During the Procedure

The test usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes. You will lie on your side while the doctor puts a long, bendable tube into your rectum. This tube has a light and camera to see inside your colon. You might feel a bit of squeezing or pushing, but it should not hurt. The relaxing medicine will help you feel comfortable.

After the Procedure

After the test, you will rest in a quiet area until you wake up fully. This might take a couple of hours. You could feel a bit full or have gas, but this should go away soon. Your doctor will talk to you about what they found during the test and what you need to do next if anything unusual was seen.

Conclusion

Even if a colonoscopy sounds scary, it is a simple test that helps check your digestion health. Following the instructions from your doctor before and after the test will make it easier. Remember, colonoscopies can find problems early, which helps keep you healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inner lining of your large intestine (colon and rectum) using a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope.

Why do I need a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is performed to detect abnormalities in the colon and rectum such as polyps, cancer, and inflammation. It's also used to investigate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and changes in bowel habits.

How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?

You will need to follow a special diet and take a bowel prep solution to cleanse your colon. Detailed instructions will be provided by your healthcare provider.

How long does the procedure take?

The colonoscopy itself usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, you should plan for a few hours at the clinic to account for preparation and recovery.

Will I be sedated during the colonoscopy?

Yes, most patients are sedated to ensure comfort during the procedure. The sedation is administered via an IV, and you will not be fully unconscious.

What should I wear on the day of the procedure?

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown for the procedure.

Can I drive myself home after the procedure?

No, you should arrange for someone to drive you home as the sedation can impair your ability to drive and make decisions for 24 hours.

Are there any risks associated with a colonoscopy?

While colonoscopies are generally safe, there are some risks including bleeding, perforation of the colon, and adverse reactions to sedation.

What can I expect during the recovery period?

You may feel bloated or have mild cramping due to air introduced into the colon. These symptoms usually resolve within a few hours. You should rest at home for the remainder of the day.

When will I get my results?

Preliminary results may be discussed immediately after the procedure. Biopsy results, if any were taken, typically take a few days to a week.

Can I eat immediately after the procedure?

You can eat after the procedure, but it's recommended to start with light meals. Your doctor will provide specific instructions based on your condition.

Will the procedure hurt?

Most patients do not experience pain thanks to sedation. You may feel some pressure or mild cramping.

Do I need to take time off work?

Yes, you should take the day of the procedure off work to allow time for the procedure and recovery. Depending on how you feel, you might need the following day off as well.

How often should I have a colonoscopy?

This depends on your risk factors and initial findings. For those with average risk, it's typically recommended every 10 years starting at age 50.

What should I do if I experience severe pain or bleeding post-procedure?

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy rectal bleeding, fever, or chills after the procedure.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test that doctors do. It helps them look inside your stomach and intestines.

The doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera. This lets them see inside your body.

A colonoscopy can help find problems like bleeding or growths.

If you are nervous, talk to a doctor or nurse. They can help you understand and feel better.

You can ask someone you trust to go with you for support.

A colonoscopy is a check-up that helps the doctor look inside your big intestine. The big intestine is also called the colon and rectum. The doctor uses a long, bendy tube with a light and camera on it, called a colonoscope, to see inside.

Why do I need a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test that looks inside your belly. This test helps doctors see if there are any problems. It can help keep you healthy.

Doctors use a long, thin tube with a camera to see inside your body. It might sound a bit scary, but it shouldn't hurt.

Ask someone you trust to explain more if you have questions.

You can use tools like picture guides or videos to learn more.

A colonoscopy is a test for your tummy and bottom. It checks for things like small bumps, sore spots, or cancer. Doctors also use it to find out why your tummy hurts, why you have bleeding from your bottom, or if you have trouble going to the toilet.

When reading, you can try using a ruler or finger to keep track of words. You can also ask someone to read with you.

How do I get ready for a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a check-up for your tummy. Here is how you can get ready:

  • Talk to your doctor. They can tell you what will happen and answer your questions.
  • Follow any special meal plans. You might have to eat less or eat different foods.
  • You may need to drink a special medicine to clean your tummy. Your doctor will tell you how.
  • Ask a friend or family member to help you get to and from the doctor.

You can use pictures or videos to help you understand the steps.

You need to eat special foods and drink a special medicine to clean out your tummy. Your doctor will tell you exactly what to do.

How long does it take?

The procedure doesn't take a long time. It is quick and easy. You can ask a friend or someone you trust to go with you. This can help you feel better. You can also use a timer or clock to know how much time has passed.

The test itself takes about 30 to 60 minutes. But you need to stay at the clinic for a few hours. This time is for getting ready and resting afterward.

Will I be asleep during the colonoscopy?

Yes, most people get medicine to help them relax during the procedure. The medicine goes into your body through a tiny tube called an IV. You will still be a little awake, but you won't feel much.

What clothes should I wear for the procedure?

Wear loose, comfy clothes. Like a t-shirt and stretchy pants. They help you feel relaxed.

Bring a sweater or jacket, just in case it’s cold.

If you have jewelry or a smartwatch, take them off when you get there.

You can ask someone to come with you for support. They can help keep your things safe.

Wear clothes that feel comfy and are not tight. You will need to put on a hospital gown before the check-up.

Can I drive myself home after the procedure?

Will I be able to drive my car home by myself after the treatment?

If you have a medical procedure, you might feel sleepy or dizzy afterwards. It is a good idea to have someone you trust to drive you home. You can ask a family member or a friend for help.

Talking to your doctor can also help. They can tell you what to expect and give you advice. Using tools like a reminder list can help you remember important things to ask.

No, you should ask someone to take you home. The medicine can make it hard to drive and make choices for one day.

What are the risks of having a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopies are usually safe. But sometimes there can be problems. These problems include bleeding, a tear in the colon, or feeling sick from the medicine used to make you sleepy.

Here are some ways to understand better and stay safe:

  • Ask your doctor to explain things in simple words.
  • Use pictures or videos to learn about the procedure.
  • Have a friend or family member with you to help you remember information.
  • Write down any questions you have.

What happens when I am getting better?

You might feel a bit bloated, like your tummy is full, or have a small tummy ache because of air inside. Don't worry, it should go away in a few hours. It's a good idea to stay at home and rest for the rest of the day.

When will I get my results?

You will get your results soon. The exact day depends on the test you took. Here is a simple way to check:

  • Ask your teacher or the person who gave you the test.
  • Look for letters or emails that tell you when results are coming.

If reading is hard, you can:

  • Use a calendar. Mark the day you think you will get your results.
  • Ask someone to read letters or emails with you.

Doctors might talk to you about what they found right after the test. If they took a small piece of tissue (called a biopsy) to look at, it might take a few days or up to a week to get those results.

Can I eat right after the procedure?

Talk to your doctor. They can help you understand when it is safe to eat.

You can use pictures or videos to help you remember what the doctor says.

You can also ask someone you trust to help you understand.

You can eat after the procedure. It's a good idea to start with small and easy meals. Your doctor will tell you what is best for you.

Will it hurt?

Having a procedure might make you worried about pain. Most people feel a little bit of pain, but it's usually not too bad.

The doctor or nurse can help. They can give you medicine to stop it from hurting too much.

If you are scared, tell the doctor or nurse. They can explain what will happen and help you feel better.

You can take slow, deep breaths to stay calm. You can also bring a toy or listen to music to help you relax.

Most people do not feel pain because they get medicine to help them relax. You might feel some pushing or light cramps.

Do I need to take time off work?

Here is a simple way to think about if you need to take time away from work.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Am I feeling too tired or sick to do my job?
  • Do I have important family or personal things to do?
  • Will taking a break help me feel better?

If you answer "yes" to any of these questions, it might be a good idea to take a break from work.

You can talk to someone you trust, like a friend or family member, to help you decide.

If you decide to take time off, tell your boss as soon as you can.

Using an easy calendar or reminder app can help you keep track of your break.

Yes, you should not go to work on the day of the procedure. This will give you time to have the procedure and then rest. If you still do not feel well the next day, you might need to stay home then too.

How often should I get a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test for your tummy. It helps doctors see if your tummy is healthy.

Most people need this test every 10 years. But some people might need it more often.

Ask your doctor how often you should have this test. Your doctor knows you best!

It might help to write down the answers your doctor gives you. This way, you can remember them later.

How often you need this test depends on your health and what doctors find in the first test. If your risk is average, doctors usually say to start getting the test every 10 years when you turn 50.

Here are some ways to help understand and remember:

  • Ask a doctor to explain it.
  • Write down the steps you need to follow.
  • Use a calendar to remind you of when to get the test.

What should I do if I have bad pain or bleeding after my treatment?

Call your doctor right away if you have bad tummy pain, a lot of bleeding from your bottom, a fever, or feel cold and shivery after the procedure.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test that doctors do. It helps them look inside your stomach and intestines.

The doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera. This lets them see inside your body.

A colonoscopy can help find problems like bleeding or growths.

If you are nervous, talk to a doctor or nurse. They can help you understand and feel better.

You can ask someone you trust to go with you for support.

A colonoscopy is a check-up that helps the doctor look inside your big intestine. The big intestine is also called the colon and rectum. The doctor uses a long, bendy tube with a light and camera on it, called a colonoscope, to see inside.

Why do I need a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test that looks inside your belly. This test helps doctors see if there are any problems. It can help keep you healthy.

Doctors use a long, thin tube with a camera to see inside your body. It might sound a bit scary, but it shouldn't hurt.

Ask someone you trust to explain more if you have questions.

You can use tools like picture guides or videos to learn more.

A colonoscopy is a test for your tummy and bottom. It checks for things like small bumps, sore spots, or cancer. Doctors also use it to find out why your tummy hurts, why you have bleeding from your bottom, or if you have trouble going to the toilet.

When reading, you can try using a ruler or finger to keep track of words. You can also ask someone to read with you.

How do I get ready for a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a check-up for your tummy. Here is how you can get ready:

  • Talk to your doctor. They can tell you what will happen and answer your questions.
  • Follow any special meal plans. You might have to eat less or eat different foods.
  • You may need to drink a special medicine to clean your tummy. Your doctor will tell you how.
  • Ask a friend or family member to help you get to and from the doctor.

You can use pictures or videos to help you understand the steps.

You need to eat special foods and drink a special medicine to clean out your tummy. Your doctor will tell you exactly what to do.

How long does it take?

The procedure doesn't take a long time. It is quick and easy. You can ask a friend or someone you trust to go with you. This can help you feel better. You can also use a timer or clock to know how much time has passed.

The test itself takes about 30 to 60 minutes. But you need to stay at the clinic for a few hours. This time is for getting ready and resting afterward.

Will I be asleep during the colonoscopy?

Yes, most people get medicine to help them relax during the procedure. The medicine goes into your body through a tiny tube called an IV. You will still be a little awake, but you won't feel much.

What clothes should I wear for the procedure?

Wear loose, comfy clothes. Like a t-shirt and stretchy pants. They help you feel relaxed.

Bring a sweater or jacket, just in case it’s cold.

If you have jewelry or a smartwatch, take them off when you get there.

You can ask someone to come with you for support. They can help keep your things safe.

Wear clothes that feel comfy and are not tight. You will need to put on a hospital gown before the check-up.

Can I drive myself home after the procedure?

Will I be able to drive my car home by myself after the treatment?

If you have a medical procedure, you might feel sleepy or dizzy afterwards. It is a good idea to have someone you trust to drive you home. You can ask a family member or a friend for help.

Talking to your doctor can also help. They can tell you what to expect and give you advice. Using tools like a reminder list can help you remember important things to ask.

No, you should ask someone to take you home. The medicine can make it hard to drive and make choices for one day.

What are the risks of having a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopies are usually safe. But sometimes there can be problems. These problems include bleeding, a tear in the colon, or feeling sick from the medicine used to make you sleepy.

Here are some ways to understand better and stay safe:

  • Ask your doctor to explain things in simple words.
  • Use pictures or videos to learn about the procedure.
  • Have a friend or family member with you to help you remember information.
  • Write down any questions you have.

What happens when I am getting better?

You might feel a bit bloated, like your tummy is full, or have a small tummy ache because of air inside. Don't worry, it should go away in a few hours. It's a good idea to stay at home and rest for the rest of the day.

When will I get my results?

You will get your results soon. The exact day depends on the test you took. Here is a simple way to check:

  • Ask your teacher or the person who gave you the test.
  • Look for letters or emails that tell you when results are coming.

If reading is hard, you can:

  • Use a calendar. Mark the day you think you will get your results.
  • Ask someone to read letters or emails with you.

Doctors might talk to you about what they found right after the test. If they took a small piece of tissue (called a biopsy) to look at, it might take a few days or up to a week to get those results.

Can I eat right after the procedure?

Talk to your doctor. They can help you understand when it is safe to eat.

You can use pictures or videos to help you remember what the doctor says.

You can also ask someone you trust to help you understand.

You can eat after the procedure. It's a good idea to start with small and easy meals. Your doctor will tell you what is best for you.

Will it hurt?

Having a procedure might make you worried about pain. Most people feel a little bit of pain, but it's usually not too bad.

The doctor or nurse can help. They can give you medicine to stop it from hurting too much.

If you are scared, tell the doctor or nurse. They can explain what will happen and help you feel better.

You can take slow, deep breaths to stay calm. You can also bring a toy or listen to music to help you relax.

Most people do not feel pain because they get medicine to help them relax. You might feel some pushing or light cramps.

Do I need to take time off work?

Here is a simple way to think about if you need to take time away from work.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Am I feeling too tired or sick to do my job?
  • Do I have important family or personal things to do?
  • Will taking a break help me feel better?

If you answer "yes" to any of these questions, it might be a good idea to take a break from work.

You can talk to someone you trust, like a friend or family member, to help you decide.

If you decide to take time off, tell your boss as soon as you can.

Using an easy calendar or reminder app can help you keep track of your break.

Yes, you should not go to work on the day of the procedure. This will give you time to have the procedure and then rest. If you still do not feel well the next day, you might need to stay home then too.

How often should I get a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test for your tummy. It helps doctors see if your tummy is healthy.

Most people need this test every 10 years. But some people might need it more often.

Ask your doctor how often you should have this test. Your doctor knows you best!

It might help to write down the answers your doctor gives you. This way, you can remember them later.

How often you need this test depends on your health and what doctors find in the first test. If your risk is average, doctors usually say to start getting the test every 10 years when you turn 50.

Here are some ways to help understand and remember:

  • Ask a doctor to explain it.
  • Write down the steps you need to follow.
  • Use a calendar to remind you of when to get the test.

What should I do if I have bad pain or bleeding after my treatment?

Call your doctor right away if you have bad tummy pain, a lot of bleeding from your bottom, a fever, or feel cold and shivery after the procedure.

Useful Links

Useful Links : What to expect at your colonoscopy
NHS - Colonoscopy

The NHS provides detailed information on what a colonoscopy involves, how to prepare, what happens during the procedure, and aftercare.
Cancer Research UK - Colonoscopy

Cancer Research UK's guide on colonoscopy, including why it is done, what happens during and after the procedure, and possible risks.
Bowel Cancer UK - Colonoscopy

Bowel Cancer UK's section on colonoscopy discusses the importance of the procedure in detecting bowel cancer, preparation tips, and what to expect.
Macmillan Cancer Support - Colonoscopy

Macmillan Cancer Support provides a comprehensive overview of colonoscopy, covering reasons for the test, the procedure itself, and recovery.

Useful links from: What happens during a colonoscopy? | NHS

Useful links from: Having a colonoscopy in hospital - Patient Guide

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Important Information On Using This Service
  • Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings .
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

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