What to Expect in a Colonoscopy
Colon cancer is a silent killer that claims thousands of lives each year. If you have a family history of colon cancer, or are of a certain age, your doctor may suggest a colonoscopy. The procedure is simply, takes very little time and could save your life.
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Preparation
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The day before the procedure you can have only clear liquids. In addition you will be given a prep kit, which could include a supply of liquid or several pills.
Day of Preparation
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The purpose of the prep kit is to completely empty and clean out your colon. Either form of the prep kit contains a strong laxative. You will spend this day taking the pills and drinking liquids.
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Morning of the Procedure
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When you arrive, you will lie on a stretcher and be given an IV. (You will be given an anesthesia and will need to have someone drive you home.)
The Procedure
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Once in the procedure room, you will go to sleep and the doctor will examine your colon by inserting a small camera. The procedure takes less than 20 minutes.
Recovery
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You will awake in recover. Once you are fully alert, you will be allowed to dress and leave. You may feel slightly bloated as the doctor will insert air into your colon in order to inflate it. Depending on your reaction to the anesthesia, you can resume normal activities later the same day.
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