What is a Colonoscopy? Procedure, Preparation & What to Expect
A colonoscopy is a crucial procedure that allows medical professionals to look at the lining of your rectum and large intestine (colon). Through a thin, flexible tube with a small camera on the end (a colonoscope), specialists can see things such as polyps, inflammation, or the early signs of bowel cancer.
Whether you’re having symptoms that might worry you or going through regular checks, especially if you’re over 50 or have had a family history of bowel disease, this is a test that could save your life.
In this guide, we’ll take you through all of your colonoscopy need-to-knows, from prep to recovery, so you can feel educated and at ease.
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic test used to examine the inside of your colon and rectum. The colonoscope sends real-time images to a monitor, and doctors are looking for:
- Colorectal cancer (Bowel cancer)
- Small growths that can become cancerous (polyps)
- Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD): Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Diverticulosis (tiny pouches in the wall of the colon)
- Bleeding or ulcers
Early diagnosis of these diseases can immensely improve treatment and is an important aspect of preventive medicine.
When You Might Need a Colonoscopy
Your doctor may suggest you have a colonoscopy if:
- Blood in your stool (which might be visible or found during lab tests)
- Cramping or abdominal pain that does not go away
- Changes in bowel behaviour without any stated cause (diarrhoea or constipation)
- Unexplained weight loss
- An inherited risk of bowel cancer
Furthermore, the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme calls for people aged 60+ (reducing in age upwards from around 50) to have screening tests at regular intervals. If you are in this category, a colonoscopy may be recommended if a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) or other initial tests show abnormalities.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
Preparation is crucial to a good colonoscopy. Your bowels need to be clear so the doctor can see properly. Here’s what to expect:
Bowel Cleansing
- You will be given strong laxatives (typically a solution to drink) the day before.
- You want to pay attention to the instructions—it’s how you get all the stool out.
Dietary Restrictions
- 24–48 hours before: Follow a low-fibre diet. Do not eat seeds, nuts, and whole grains.
- The day before the test: Consume only clear fluids (water, broth, black tea).
Medication Adjustments
- Let your doctor know about any medications you take, including blood thinners (such as warfarin) or diabetes medications, because dosages may need to be changed.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Here’s what to expect:
- Sedation – You will be given a sedative to relax you (you’ll be awake but sleepy).
- During Colonoscopy – The slim, flexible tube is placed gently into your rectum and through the colon.
- Insufflation – A small volume of air is inserted to distend the colon so that the walls are more clearly visible.
- Physical Examination – The physician looks for lesions. Polyps can be removed or biopsied if they are discovered.
The actual procedure takes 20 to 40 minutes, and you will be monitored in recovery afterwards.
After the Colonoscopy
- Recovery Time: You must have someone take you home, as you will be sedated. Rest for the day.
- Side Effects: Some light bloating or cramping is normal. Passing wind relieves discomfort.
- Results: If a biopsy was performed, the results might take 1–2 weeks. Otherwise, the findings may be discussed by the doctor right away.
Please consult a doctor if you have any of the following:
- Severe pain
- Heavy bleeding
- Fever or chills
Risks and Complications
Although colonoscopies are considered safe procedures, they do come with some risks, although they are very rare.
- Bleeding (if a polyp is removed)
- Infection (very uncommon)
- Perforation of the bowel (although this is extremely rare)
Conclusion
A colonoscopy is the primary weapon against catching and preventing bowel diseases early. Follow recommended screening guidelines, and please don’t delay a colonoscopy for any symptoms you may have, or if it’s your time to be screened; early detection saves lives.
Need a colonoscopy? Call Chase Lodge Hospital now to get treated by our specialist gastroenterologists.
