A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that is done to identify malformation or changes in your large intestine (colon) and rectum. It involves the insertion of a flexible tube called a colonoscope into your rectum. On the tip of the scope is a small camera that enables your doctor to see into your colon.
At the Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California here in Encino, CA, Dr. Mordo Suchov and Dr. Alan Naim can evaluate your colon health and look into any warning signs that you may be experiencing.
Why You Might Need a Colonoscopy
Your doctor may advise you to undergo a colonoscopy for the following reasons:
- Testing for Colon Cancer. If you are 50 plus years of age and at a moderate risk of colon cancer, your gastroenterologist in Encino, CA, may suggest a colonoscopy every 10 years or earlier.
- Searching for The Presence of Polyps. Your gastroenterologist may likewise suggest a follow-up colonoscopy if you’ve already had polyps to inspect for any additional ones. This is done to lower your risk of developing colon cancer.
- Examining Intestinal Symptoms. If you are experiencing intestinal complications including chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, persistent constipation, or rectal bleeding, a colonoscopy could help identify the possible causes.
Preparing for Your Colonoscopy
To ensure that your colonoscopy is a success, your colon must be emptied. If your bowel isn’t well-prepared, lesions and polyps inside the colon may go undetected and the procedure may be prolonged, which could then increase the risk of other complications. Your doctor might require that you do the following for preparation:
- Take laxatives. You may be directed to use the laxative on the night prior to and the morning of the examination.
- Eat and follow a particular diet the day before the procedure. The consumption of solid foods the day before the procedure is typically not allowed. Your diet will mainly consist of drinking or consuming only clear liquids such as water, broth, tea or coffee without cream or milk, and carbonated drinks. You must likewise refrain from red-colored beverages as they might be confused with blood during the examination. Typically, you also won’t be allowed to consume anything past midnight the night before the colonoscopy.
- Use an enema kit. It may be advised to use an over-the-counter enema kit to empty your lower colon the night or a few hours before the procedure.
- Modify the dosage of your medications. If you take any kind of medication, tell your doctor about it a week before the procedure. Your usual dosage may need to be adjusted or you may have to discontinue taking them momentarily.
For More Information on Colonoscopy Prep, Don’t Hesitate to Contact Us
Set up a consultation with Dr. Mordo Suchov or Dr. Alan Naim here at the Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California in Encino, CA, by calling (818) 905-1567.