Overview, Risk & Needs of Colonoscopy, Dallas

A colonoscopy is an exam used to detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine and rectum. Colonoscopy is the most accurate test for cancer of the colon and rectum, proven to detect the disease early and save lives.

During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the entire colon. The bowel prep used can sometimes be of concern for seniors because it can lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.

Make lifestyle changes. 

Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and less fatty foods and red or processed meat. Lose excess weight, exercise, limit alcohol, and don’t smoke.

Get accurate test results. 

Carefully follow your health care provider’s instructions preparing your bowels before the procedure. If you have questions, call the office and go over them with the nurse.

Typically, you won't be able to eat solid food the day before the exam. Drinks may be limited to clear liquids plain water, tea and coffee without milk or cream, broth, and carbonated beverages.

Take a laxative. 

You may be instructed to take the laxative the night before your colonoscopy, or you may be asked to use the laxative both the night before and the morning of the procedure.

Use an enema kit. 

In some cases, you may need to use an over-the-counter enema kit either the night before the exam or a few hours before the exam to empty your colon.

Adjust your medications. 

Remind your doctor of your medications at least a week before the exam especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure or heart problems or if you take medications or supplements that contain iron

Risk of Colonoscopy, Dallas

Perforated intestine

It can also be the result of trauma, such as a knife wound or gunshot wound. A perforation may also occur in the gallbladder. This can have symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of a Perforated intestine;

· bacteria

· bile

· stomach acid

· partially digested food

Bleeding

If a tissue sample is taken or a polyp removed, you may notice some bleeding from your rectum or blood in your stool a day or two after the test. 

Post-polypectomy electrocoagulation syndrome

Postpolypectomy coagulation syndrome refers to the development of abdominal pain, fever, leukocytosis, and peritoneal inflammation in the absence of bowel perforation after polypectomy with electrocoagulation.

Adverse reaction to anesthetic

All surgical procedures carry some risk of negative reactions to anesthesia. These include allergic reactions and respiratory distress.

Reasons Need a Colonoscopy

Proper Diagnosis

These various irritable bowel diseases have symptoms that overlap, and doctors need concrete evidence to diagnose you and offer proper treatment.

CROHN’S DISEASE

This autoimmune disease causes inflammation to occur in sections of the large and small intestines. The inflammation is the result of the body’s immune system recognizing the cells in the digestive tract as foreign and attacking them.

Ulcerative colitis

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis are very similar to those of Crohn’s, but the part of the digestive tract affected by colitis is solely the large intestine. Shared symptoms include abdominal pain and cramping, bloody stool, reduced appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and unintended weight loss.

Treatment Reference