Tuesday 15 November 2016

Some Basic Facts Related To Colonoscopy Conway AR Clients Need To Be Aware Of

By Raymond Mitchell


Among the most important procedures that have to be performed when an individual is diagnosed with a condition affecting the large intestine is colonoscopy. The procedure is performed by inserting a special instrument called a colonoscope through the anal opening and directing through the large intestines. This instrument is fitted with a camera that captures the images in the region and transmits them to a screen. There are several thing on colonoscopy Conway AR patients need to know.

A number of varied conditions can be diagnosed using this procedure. Tumors (both malignant and benign) are the commonest finding. Other conditions that are also quite common include enlarged prostate glands in men, polyps and bleeding ulcers (associated with inflammatory bowel disease). A typical candidate is an individual with a history of bleeding from the rectum. It is recommended that men above the age of 40 should undergo regular examination.

Apart from being useful making a diagnosis, the procedure can be used for a number of other interventions. For instance, when a bleeding ulcer is visualized, a sclerosing agent can be applied to the area to close the open vessels. A similarly effective intervention is what is referred to as cauterization. This involves the use of electric current to control bleeding. Polyps with a long stalk can be safely removed using a colonoscope.

Since this is an invasive procedure, there is a need for one to undergo adequate preparation. This helps minimize the risk of complications. Among the important things to be done is a determination of hemoglobin and platelet levels. If any of these parameters is lower than expected, then the risk of bleeding is high. Another important step during preparation is what is known as colon cleansing.

The process of colon cleansing is done to get rid of fecal material in the colon to make it easier to perform the procedure. A drugs known as a laxative is administered to help increase the motility of the intestines so as to empty it as fast as possible. This is typically done in two to three days. Newer laxatives can clean the colon within a couple of hours.

You need to carefully think about your diet as you undergo the process of colon cleanse. The diet should preferably be in liquid form. The most commonly recommended foods are beverages such as tea, gelatin, coffee and clear juices. Colored juices should be avoided due to their ability to stain the mucosal layer of the colon which in turn interferes with the findings.

The procedure itself is quite straightforward. It takes about an hour to complete as long as complications are encountered. Since there may be a bit of discomfort, sedation is usually administered. You may also be asked to take deep breaths as the scope is inserted and directed through the gut. As the scope is directed to the site of interest, you are likely to pass wind. This is perfectly normal.

A person who has undergone colonoscopy can be allowed to go home on the same day. Rarely, they may be retained in hospital for about 24 hours if the sedation takes too long to wear off or if there are complications. Commonly encountered complications may include dizziness, bleeding, vomiting and nausea.




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