What Can a Colonoscopy Show and How to Prepare?
Colonoscopy is a powerful tool that helps prevent colorectal cancer, detect it early, and diagnose and treat a range of digestive disorders. UR Medicine gastroenterologist Dr. Anjanet Perez-Colon explains that doctors look for more than just cancer during a colonoscopy.
Colonoscopy is a key tool to:
- Find and remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.
- Detect early and silent colorectal cancer when it’s more treatable.
- Diagnose causes of bleeding or unexplained anemia.
- Investigate symptoms like chronic diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits.
- Identify inflammation from conditions such as Crohn’s Disease or ulcerative colitis.
Need a colonoscopy soon?
Colonoscopies are quick and safe. Here’s what to expect before, during, and after so you can be prepared and recover comfortably.
From Start to Finish
A colonoscopy allows your doctor to examine the inside of your large intestine (colon) using a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end.
Days Before: Colonoscopy Prep
Proper bowel preparation is essential for a successful colonoscopy. A clean colon helps your doctor see clearly and detect any issues. Here’s bowel preparation in a nutshell:
- Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, including any dietary changes and prescribed laxatives. Tip: Chill the prep drink that helps flush out your system and use a straw to make it easier to take!
- Stick to clear liquids the day before.
- Stay near a bathroom once the prep starts.
- Finish all the prep exactly as directed, even if things seem clear early.
Day of Colonoscopy: Procedure, Findings, and Recovery
Procedure
- The procedure itself usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
- Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours total at the hospital or clinic, including check-in, sedation, and recovery time.
- Some patients are fully sedated under anesthesia, but most choose “conscious sedation,” which makes them drowsy and unaware of the procedure while still being awake.
Findings:
During a colonoscopy, your doctor might:
- Remove polyps: These growths are often harmless, but removing them helps prevent colon cancer. Don’t worry! Finding and removing polyps is common and an important part of prevention. If polyps are removed, they’ll be sent to a lab for analysis. Your doctor will follow up with results and let you know if any further monitoring or treatment is needed.
- Take a biopsy: A small tissue sample may be collected for further testing.
Research Spotlight
Researchers at URMC discovered a new way to classify colon cancer by studying how cells edit RNA, rather than just looking at gene activity.
This method could help doctors more accurately predict which treatments will work best for each patient.
Recovery (same day)
After the colonoscopy, you’ll rest in a recovery area as the sedation wears off. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Sleepiness for a few hours.
- Mild bloating, cramping, or gas; all normal and temporary.
- Resuming normal eating later the same day for most people.
- You’ll need someone to drive you home, and it’s best to take it easy for the rest of the day. Sedation can linger for several hours.
Day After Colonoscopy: Resuming Normal Activities
Due for a colonoscopy and don't have health insurance? The Cancer Services Program of the Finger Lakes Region may be able to help get you the screening you need. Call (585) 224-3070 to or visit our website to learn more.
Common Questions about Colonoscopy
When are colonoscopy screenings recommended?
Routine screening starts at age 45 for most adults. If you have a family history of colon cancer or certain conditions, you may need to start earlier. Even if you feel healthy, regular screening is one of the best ways to prevent colorectal cancer.What if I have symptoms before age 45?
If you’re experiencing symptoms like rectal bleeding, ongoing abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss, talk to your doctor right away. You may need a diagnostic colonoscopy, even if you’re younger than 45.
Is the bowel prep really that bad?
It’s not fun, but it’s manageable, and it’s the most important part of the procedure! Newer prep options are easier to tolerate, and tips like chilling the drink or using a straw can help. The good news? It’s only for one day, and it could save your life.
How long will I be sedated?
Sedation lasts only during the procedure, but you’ll feel drowsy for several hours afterward.Need a Colonoscopy Soon?
At Finger Lakes Gastroenterology, patients can typically schedule a colonoscopy within 30 days.
If you’re due for a screening—or not sure when your last one was—this is your sign to check in with your primary care provider. Ask your doctor if it’s time for your colonoscopy and request a referral today.
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