Colonoscopy is an examination performed to see any disturbances or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. These disorders can include sores, swelling, irritation, or abnormal tissue growth in the colon or rectum.
Colonoscopy, also known as intestinal binoculars, is usually recommended by doctors if there are complaints in the digestive system, such as bloody bowel movements, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel patterns (BAB), to look for the conditions that directly cause these complaints. In addition, this examination can also be done to detect colon cancer early.
Preparation for a Colonoscopy
Before undergoing a colonoscopy procedure, you need to first consult with a gastroenterologist. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, have heart, lung disease, diabetes, and have allergies to certain medications.
This is so that the doctor can adjust the administration of certain drugs according to your condition before performing a colonoscopy. After that, the doctor will ask you to empty the colon so that the intestinal wall can be seen clearly and clearly. The recommended methods include:
Doing a special diet 1-3 days before the examination
You need to avoid solid foods and are only allowed to eat soup broth, drink mineral water, or tea without sugar. Also avoid consuming red or purple colored drinks because they can be mistaken for blood in the examination.
Taking laxatives
This is the method most often recommended by doctors. Laxatives are taken the night before the colonoscopy procedure or can be added on the morning of the procedure.
Using enemas
Emptying the colon can also be done with an enema procedure. This procedure is done by inserting a cleaning fluid directly from the anus the night before the colonoscopy or several hours before. This procedure should be done under medical supervision.
After the gastric emptying process, you are advised not to drink or eat anything for a few hours before performing this procedure.
This Is How Colonoscopy Procedures Look Like
The colonoscopy procedure is performed by an experienced doctor and will generally take 30–60 minutes. The colonoscope used is shaped like a flexible tube with a diameter of approximately 1.5 cm and is equipped with a camera at the end.
Before the procedure, you will be asked to change into special clothes. The following are procedures performed during a colonoscopy:
- You will be asked to lie on your side in bed with your knees bent towards your chest.
- Your doctor will give you a sedative to make you sleepy and relax during the procedure.
- After the anesthesia is effective, the doctor will insert a colonoscope into the anus while pumping air into the large intestine to expand the intestine, so that the intestinal wall can be seen clearly.
- The doctor then takes some necessary pictures during the examination.
- The doctor will remove intestinal polyps if they are found.
- Doctors can also perform a biopsy by taking a sample of suspected intestinal tissue for further analysis.
During this procedure, you may feel mild cramping in your stomach. This can be relieved by taking long, slow breaths.
If there is slight bleeding from the anus after a biopsy or tissue removal, don't worry. This condition is normal and will generally improve within a few days.
People aged 50 years and over have a higher risk of colon cancer. Therefore, it is recommended that this age group perform at least 1 colonoscopy every 10 years to detect the possibility of this disorder.
Colonoscopy complications are very rare. However, if after a colonoscopy you experience abdominal pain, bloody stools, or a fever of more than 38°C, consult a doctor immediately for further treatment.
