Don’t Fear the Colonoscopy

• Posted on: Aug 15 2017
• By: wpengine

Root canals and colonoscopies have something in common — they are universally feared by the public. But in the realm of dental procedures and routine necessary exams, respectively, neither is a big deal.

At Ogden Clinic GI at McKay, colonoscopies are a critical diagnostic tool to spot colon cancer early on. Plus, they can help determine the cause of other digestive issues such as changes in bowel activity, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding.

Why do I need a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopies are recommended for people who are at an increased risk of developing cancer of the colon or rectum, known as colorectal cancer. These are the risk factors that may contribute to the development of colorectal cancer:

• Once the patient has had their 50^thbirthday
• Personal of family history of colorectal polyps
• Personal or family history of inflammatory bowel disease
• Family history of colon or rectal cancer
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Heavy alcohol use
• Lack of exercise or activity

How is a colonoscopy done?

The day before your colonoscopy you’ll drink a bowel-cleansing solution to clear your colon. You’ll also be on a clear liquid diet.

A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure at our offices. We begin by giving you a light sedative through an intravenous line. You will then be positioned lying down on your side. The colonoscope is gently inserted into the anus and is carefully moved into the lower portion of the large intestine and guided upward toward the lowest portion of the small intestine.

Now, the scope is slowly withdrawn, with the doctor watching on the video monitor, examining the lining of the colon. If necessary, polyps, or growths, may be taken to be biopsied. The entire procedure takes from 20-40 minutes, and you’re done.

Afterwards, you’ll be groggy from the sedative, so you’ll need to have someone drive you home from the procedure.

If you’re over 50, it’s time to check for colon cancer. Call the team at Ogden Clinic GI at McKay, 801-387-2550, to schedule your colonoscopy.

Posted in: Colonoscopy