Colonoscopy Procedure is a diagnostic process wherein the medical practitioner examines and observes the linings of your large intestines and rectum with the use of a colonoscope. A colonoscope is a flexible tube that is four feet long and as thick as one’s finger. It has a camera and light on its end to better see the insides of the colon and rectum. Colonoscopy procedure is usually done to find the specific cause why a patient is suffering from changes in bowel movements, blood in feces, to check for colorectal polyps and cancer, and others. It is a very useful procedure to evaluate underlying problems involving the colon and rectum.

Preparation for Colonoscopy Procedure

Colonoscopy procedure is usually done to investigate the real cause for episodes of bloody stools, excruciating abdominal pains and constant diarrhea. If you’re advised to undergo this procedure here are the things you should remember.

• Before the procedure, make sure that your bowel is clean so that the doctor can see clearly the walls of your intestines.

• Tell your doctor about the medicines you’re taking because some medications are not allowed before a colonoscopy procedure like aspirin, iron supplements, naproxen, etc.

• Read the instructions provided to you regarding the things you should do before the colonoscopy procedure and follow them to the letter. This is important because failure to do so might require you to take the procedure once again.

• If nausea and the urge to vomit are felt while taking the bowel preparation, relax and standby for 30 minutes and let the feeling pass. After it has ceased, sip small portions of the solution slowly. If you still feel nauseated, it is time to contact your doctor regarding this problem.

• If you feel a tingling sensation or irritation around your anal area, apply Vaseline or Desitin ointment around the anus in order to ease the irritation. If there is a bowel movement, use wet wipes to clean your anus instead of the usual dry toilet paper. You can also submerge your buttocks in a bathtub filled with lukewarm water for a few minutes after having a bowel movement. Afterwhich, pat dry and apply Vaseline around the anus.

• Remember that colonoscopy procedure cannot be done for pregnant women or for people with obstructive bowel perforation.

Aftercare for Colonoscopy Procedure

• After the Colonoscopy procedure is performed, you will be asked to rest for an hour or two.

• Cramping and gas are normally experienced after the procedure but will eventually pass.

• It is important that someone accompanies you when you get your colonoscopy procedure because after which, you are not allowed to drive home. Driving and operating any machinery is not allowed within 24 hours after the procedure, nor is alcohol intake. You also have to wait a day before proceeding with your normal activities.

• If there were other procedures involved like removal of polyps or a biopsy, taking in of medications containing aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen must be avoided in order to decrease the possibility of bleeding.

• Discuss with your physician about the best time to resume drinking your medications such as Coumadin, Plavix and any other blood thinners.

Keep in mind that the best thing to do is to listen and follow your doctor’s advice regarding the things you should do before and after the Colonoscopy procedure.