Colonoscopies examine the inside of the large intestine and rectum to detect changes or abnormalities, such as polyps or signs of colorectal cancer. It’s normal to feel nervous when preparing for a colonoscopy, but knowing what to expect will ease your anxiety. Below, the friendly doctors at Lincoln Surgical Group PC of Nebraska discuss what happens during and after the procedure.

During the Procedure

Before the procedure begins, a sedative is administered to reduce possible discomfort during the exam. You are then asked to lie down on your side on the exam table, keeping your knees drawn up towards your chest. The colonoscope, which consists of a camera, a light, and a tube, is then inserted into the rectum. The tube pumps air into the colon for a clearer view of the colon lining, while the camera transmits images to an external monitor. Depending on the purpose of the exam, the doctor may also take tissue samples from areas with abnormal tissue. You may feel slight cramping when the colonoscope moves, but the entire procedure should take no longer than an hour.

After the Procedure

It can take up to an hour to recover from the sedative, so ask a friend or family member to pick you up from the clinic. You may experience bloating or gas for a few hours as the colon clears itself of air. While a small amount of blood is normal, call a doctor if you pass blood clots or experience a fever. If the doctor took tissue samples, you might also be put on a special temporary diet.

Colonoscopies detect polyps or abnormal tissue so patients may seek treatment before the irregularities become cancerous. If you’re looking for a medical clinic in Lincoln, NE, turn to Lincoln Surgical Group for colonoscopies and other screening procedures. Call (402) 483-7825 today to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information about their full list of services.