Reaching the milestone of 45 comes with a long list of adulting duties — the most dreaded one, arguably, is the colonoscopy exam.
But what exactly does a colonoscopy entail, and why is it so crucial to your health, particularly as you age?
Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants’ Dr. Darrien Gaston, one of Chicago’s most experienced specialists, explains the colonoscopy process from start to finish.
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic tool that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the inside of the large intestine or colon. It helps us detect and prevent a range of conditions, including colorectal cancer, often years before symptoms appear.
If you’ve been dodging the appointment due to misconceptions or fears, it’s time to confront your concerns — knowledge is power, as they say.
Your colonoscopy begins with preparation.
Dr. Gaston guides you on when to schedule the colonoscopy based on several factors, including your personal and family medical history. Adults at average risk should get their first colorectal screening (colonoscopy) at age 45.
We give you detailed instructions on preparing for your colonoscopy, including dietary restrictions and a bowel-cleansing regimen. This phase is vital for the success of the actual examination, so be sure to commit to the prescribed steps.
Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. You will be under the influence of anesthesia and not fit to drive.
On the day of the procedure, you should arrive at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants at your appointment time, usually in the morning. Here’s what happens next.
After arriving, you check in and complete any necessary paperwork. Be prepared to provide a current list of medications and any updates to your health since your consultation.
We start by administering a sedative or pain medication to keep you comfortable. It’s essential to follow all pre-op instructions carefully, including fasting from the night before and abstaining from certain medications unless Dr. Gaston directs you otherwise.
The actual colonoscopy takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. We position you on your side, and Dr. Gaston inserts a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) into your rectum and moves it around to examine the lining of your colon.
The post-colonoscopy phase is relatively straightforward.
After the procedure, we monitor you for a little while to ensure you feel okay.
When you’re ready, we brief you on the results of your colonoscopy and provide any follow-up instructions. Your regular doctor will also receive a detailed report.
Most patients can resume normal activities the day after their colonoscopy. However, following Dr. Gaston’s post-procedure guidelines and drinking plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration is important.
The idea of a colonoscopy can be scary, but our expert tips can help you face the day calmly.
The colonoscopy prep can be uncomfortable. To make it more manageable, choose a flavored prep solution, clear, non-red liquids, and use a straw to bypass most of your taste buds.
We keep you comfortable during the exam, but the anticipation can trigger anxiety. Distract yourself with music, conversation, or meditation leading to the procedure.
Rather than dwelling on potential negative outcomes, try to focus on the positive aspects. Identifying issues early is beneficial as it allows quicker intervention and treatment.
It’s tempting to postpone or skip regular colonoscopies, but they’re crucial for your health. Here’s when and why you should keep them on your calendar.
The American Cancer Society recommends regular screenings starting at age 45 for individuals with an average risk of colorectal cancer. Dr. Gaston determines the frequency of your future screenings based on the results of your colonoscopy.
Cancers are more treatable the earlier we find them. Regular screenings can detect precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer and catch cancer in its early stages when it’s most responsive to treatment.
Call Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants in Chicago, Illinois, to schedule your colonoscopy and stay a step ahead of colorectal cancer.
