What is colonoscopy? A colonoscopy is an endoscopic, or internal look, of the colon and distal part of the small bowel. A CCD camera or fiber optic wire is used to look inside. Essentially, it is a small wire that is put through the anus in order to get an inside look of you colon and small bowel. A gasteoenterologist can determine quite readily if a problems exists. Ccolonoscopies are necessary in ensuring a clean bill of rectal health, and making sure that no cancerous growths or pre-cancerous polyps have developed. This is normally a procedure to have over the age of 35, and should be repeated every 5 years. They are of paramount importance.
Colonoscopies are most commonly done in order to check for gastrointestinal hemorrhage, colon cancer, and bowel inflammatory disease. Each one of these ailments are life threatening and can quickly develop into a terminal condition or something that will change the way you live your life henceforth. A simple check with your doctor will help you by letting you know if you are at risk of something or are still healthy!
A colonoscopy requires a bit of preparation. The day before hand you cannot eat at all because your colon must be completely free of solid matter - a liquid or ice diet is recommended, all clear in nature. Apple juice, broth, lemon lime soda, sports drinks, or water are all examples of clear fluids that you can have the day before a colonoscopy. It is also common to have to take a laxative the day before as well.
During the actual procedure the patient is often sedated. After sedation, a CCD camera or fiber optic cam is put through your anus so that your colon can be fully seen. This is necessary for your gastroenterologist to give you a clean bill of health. It could save your life!
The pain does not come from the tube but from the inflammation of your colon. The procedure has an extremely low risk of serious complications (35%). It is of high importance that you schedule a colonoscopy with your doctor in order to know that you have a healthy colon.
Colon cancer is serious. Get yourself checked before the problem arises. You'll thank yourself more than you could possibly know.
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