A colonoscopy is used to screen for polyps, early signs of colon cancer and certain digestive disorders. During the procedure, a flexible tube called an endoscope is inserted into the rectum and colon. The colon is approximately five feet in length and begins at the small intestine and ends at the rectum and anus. During the procedure, a doctor views the colon through a video camera, and can remove polyps and abnormal-looking tissue for examination.
Advice
- Rating
- 2.9
- Pain
- Inconvenience
Ask your doctor about different brand prep liquids available and different flavors. Also, ask your doctor about pills vs. drinks for the purge prep.
Eat lightly for the two days prior to the procedure so that you have less to expunge from your system.
Schedule your purge day prep so you are in your house as you will be visting the bathroom often.
Everyone is apprehensive about having the procedure. Is it enjoyable? NO! But just follow the prep directions and try to relax. The prep is the worst of it. And the procedure is over before you even know it. Don’t postpone the inevitable! Just make the appointment and get it over with.
Research News
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January, 2008
Fear of Colonoscopy Drops When Peer Patients Offer Support
Journal of General Internal Medicine
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October, 2007
Virtual Colonoscopy Effective Compared to Traditional Optical Screening
New England Journal of Medicine/University of Wisconsin Medical School
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July, 2007
Genes Linked to Colon Cancer Risk
Cancer Biology and Therapy/University of Michigan
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April, 2007
Adult-Dose Aspirin Linked to Lower Cancer Risk
American Cancer Society/Journal of the National Cancer Institute
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April, 2007
Virtual Colonoscopy Cost-Effective Screening Test
American Cancer Society/Cancer
