It is one of the best methods to detect abnormalities in the colon. It is performed by inserting a scope through the anus to the proximal colon. It is done in cases where the patient has the following abnormal symptoms:
- Problems with bowel movements such as chronic constipation or diarrhea that come and go, alternating constipation and diarrhea, stool with blood, or smaller stool size, pain during defecation but incomplete evacuation
- Patients with chronic abdominal pain of unknown cause
- Chronic anemia
- Unexplained weight loss
- Patients over 50 years old
- Patients with a family history of colon cancer
Procedure and Method of Examination
Patients will be assessed for their general physical condition before the examination and should inform the doctor about regular medications, underlying diseases, and past surgical history.
Then, the colon must be cleaned to avoid residue by consuming a liquid diet and laxatives 1-2 days before the examination date. Colon preparation is a very important step that helps make the examination easier and more successful.
Patients must fast from food and water for at least 4-6 hours before the examination. The doctor will spend about 30 minutes performing the endoscopy. During this time, the patient will receive medication to induce sleep and will wake up normally after the procedure is completed. Patients should rest for about 1-2 hours after the examination.
Benefits of Colonoscopy include detecting problems occurring in the colon such as abdominal pain, abnormal diarrhea, bleeding, and screening for colon cancer. The advantage of colonoscopy is that abnormalities in the colon can be clearly seen, especially early-stage colon cancer, and abnormalities found can be treated during the same procedure.
Possible Side Effects from Colonoscopy include injury to the colon wall and bleeding, which are very rare and usually occur when removing large polyps, especially in patients who continuously take blood-thinning medications. Patients may experience some bloating after the colonoscopy, but the symptoms will gradually improve within 4-6 hours.
Dr. Natthiwut Wattanarakskul
Gastroenterology Specialist
Gastroenterology and Liver Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
