The day of your colonoscopy is usually not a difficult one. In fact, most people report that it is the easiest part of the process.
Having a colonoscopy may seem like a big deal -- and it is! But that's because it can catch cancer early, not because the procedure is difficult. Be sure to follow your doctor's orders for your prep and arrive on time. Do it for you and your loved ones.
Here are some steps you will typically go through on the day of your colonoscopy.
You will have your procedure at an endoscopy center, hospital, or other facility. It's very important that someone comes with you who can drive you home afterwards.
Before the procedure you will:
Your anesthesia provider will give you medicine through your IV to sedate you before the procedure begins.
Once you are asleep, a thin, flexible tube equipped with a tiny video camera is inserted into your anus to look inside your colon and rectum. The exam takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
After your colonoscopy, you will wake up in a recovery room. Other than being a little groggy, you should feel fine.
When you are ready to be discharged, you will dress and go home. If any biopsies were taken, your doctor will let you know the results in about a week.
You will need to rest when you get home, so while you are taking it easy:
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