Why You Should Consider a Colonoscopy If You Have Frequent Stomach Pain
The large intestine stores waste before it’s excreted. When we eat food that’s not hygienic or unhealthy, it can disrupt the digestive process, leading to build-up, fermentation, and frequent abdominal pain. That’s why it’s important to monitor your colon health and ensure it’s still functioning properly.
When Should You Be Concerned?
You might wonder, “How do I know when I need a colonoscopy?”
Here are the warning signs:
- Chronic diarrhea
- Abnormal stools
- Blood in the stool
- Straining or feeling of incomplete bowel movements
- Unexplained weight loss
- Paleness or signs of anemia
- Frequent lower abdominal pain
- A lump in the abdomen
- Family history of colon cancer
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s highly recommended to consult a doctor right away.
Is a Colonoscopy Scary?
Not at all! Before the procedure, the doctor will ask you to clear your colon by eating a soft diet and taking laxatives for 1–2 days.
During the colonoscopy:
- A long, soft tube with a camera is inserted through the anus, allowing the doctor to examine up to 1.5 meters of the colon.
- The procedure takes about 15–30 minutes.
- It can be done with or without sedation.
- Afterward, you’ll rest at the hospital for 1–2 hours and can usually go home the same day—if no serious issues are found.
If abnormalities like inflammation, polyps, or cancer are found:
- A biopsy may be taken.
- If polyps are detected, the doctor can remove them using a wire and electric current and send them for lab testing.
Why Is a Colonoscopy Beneficial?
Colonoscopy helps detect:
- Ulcers
- Hemorrhoids
- Polyps
- Colon cancer
- And other abnormalities in the colon
If there is bleeding in the lower digestive tract, a colonoscopy helps identify the source and can even stop the bleeding during the procedure.
Though rare, possible side effects include:
- Bleeding
- Perforation of the intestine (less than 1 in 1,000 cases)
- Infection (especially after removing tissue or using cauterization)
In such cases, doctors will keep patients for monitoring until they are safely cleared.
