Colonoscopy Singapore: What Next After the Procedure? A colonoscopy is a medical procedure for examining the insides of the colon (large i...
Colonoscopy Singapore: What Next
After the Procedure?
A
colonoscopy is a medical procedure for examining the insides of the colon
(large intestine) and rectum. It is often recommended for people who report
symptoms like rectal bleeding, chronic abdominal pain, or changes in bowel
habits.
It
is also used as a screening tool for colorectal cancer, particularly for those
aged 45 and above or people with a family history of the disease. You may also
want to visit a colonoscopy clinic in Singapore for monitoring of conditions like
inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or to evaluate the effectiveness of previous
treatments.
This article explains what you can
typically expect after your colonoscopy in Singapore. But before that;
Is Having a Colonoscopy Painful?
During
your colonoscopy in Singapore, a gastroenterologist will carefully insert a
flexible tube into your rectum to examine the colon. This in itself sounds a
little scary thus the question; is having a colonoscopy painful?
The
simple answer is no, having a colonoscopy isn’t painful, thanks to advancements
in medical technology and anesthesia options. During the procedure, most
patients receive sedation or anesthesia to ensure comfort. With these
medications, you are either asleep or in a relaxed, drowsy state.
These
medications make the procedure virtually painless. You may feel slight pressure
or bloating as air is introduced into the colon to provide a clear view, but
this sensation is usually mild.
Once
the procedure is complete, you might experience mild discomfort, such as
cramping or bloating. These symptoms are temporary and typically resolve within
a few hours. Most people are able to resume normal activities the next day,
depending on their doctor's advice.
What Is the Next Step After a
Colonoscopy?
The
next steps after your colonoscopy in Singapore will largely depend on the
results of the procedure. After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery
area to rest as the sedation wears off.
Most
people feel groggy and may need a few hours to fully recover.Because of this,
it is recommendable that you have someone accompany you home, as you may not be
able to drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day.
After
your colonoscopy, your doctor will explain the results once you are fully awake
and alert. These findings could vary. A good colonoscopy doctor will take time
to explain all the results to ensure thate you understand them. Here are the
possible results;
●
Normal results: If the colonoscopy shows no
abnormalities, the results will be considered normal. Your doctor will then
tell you when to schedule your next screening. Most likely, you will be advised
to schedule the next screening in the next 5 to 10 years. This depends on your
health history and risk factors.
●
Polyps or abnormal tissue: Sometimes, doctors may find polyps
or abnormal tissue during the colonoscopy. If this happens, the doctor may
remove the polyps or take a biopsy (a small sample of tissue). These samples
will be sent to a laboratory for further testing. The results from the lab can
take anywhere from a few days to a week to come back. Your doctor will contact
you once they have the results.
●
Diagnosis of conditions: If any specific health condition is
found, such as diverticulosis (small pouches in the colon) or signs of
inflammation, your doctor will explain the diagnosis. They will also suggest a
treatment plan based on the findings. This treatment plan may involve
medication, lifestyle changes, or further tests.
What Should You Not Do After a
Colonoscopy?
As is the case with any other
medical procedure, proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery after
your colonoscopy in Singapore. This explains why many patients frequently
search online; what should you not do after a colonoscopy? If you have the same
concern, here is a quick summary that should answer your question;
●
Avoid Driving or Operating
Machinery: The
sedatives used during the colonoscopy can impair your reflexes and judgment for
several hours. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in
activities that require focus until the sedation has fully worn off, usually by
the next day.
●
Do not Drink Alcohol: Alcohol should be avoided for at
least 24 hours after the procedure. Mixing alcohol with residual sedation can
exagerate its effects which can lead to severe resspiratory effects. For example, it might cause issues
like difficulty or even stopped breathing which can even lead to death.
●
Do not Eat Large or Hard-to-Digest
Meals: Your digestive system may be
sensitive after a colonoscopy. So, you will want to avoid heavy, greasy, or
spicy foods for the rest of the day. Instead, opt for light, easily digestible
meals like soup, yogurt, or rice.
●
Strenuous Activities: After your colonoscopy in Singapore,
it is also advidable to keep off intense physical activities for at least 24
hours. The example activities you will want to avoid include heavy lifting,
running, or vigorous exercise, for at least 24 hours. This allows your body to
recover fully and reduces the risk of complications like bleeding if polyps
were removed.
●
Ignoring Symptoms: Ignoring strange developments after
your colonoscopy in Singapore is one mistake you really want to avoid. If you
experience severe pain, heavy rectal bleeding, fever, or persistent nausea
after a colonoscopy, do not ignore these symptoms. Contact your doctor
immediately, as they may indicate complications such as infection or
perforation.
Closing Thoughts
A
colonoscopy is a vital procedure for diagnosing and preventing serious
gastrointestinal conditions. The procedure itself is painless and
straightforward but it does help to know what happens afterward.
A good gastroenterologist will be
happy to address any concerns you might have about colonoscopy in Singapore.
So, if you have any questions, do not shy away from asking.
If you’re in Singapore and due for a
colonoscopy, ensure you discuss your concerns and next steps with your
provider. We understand all that is involved in colonoscopy and will take all
the necessary measures to ensure it is the most comfortable experience for you.
To learn more or book your assessment, call or visit us at;
Dr
Lee Chin Li - Lee Surgery and Endoscopy | Colorectal Surgery | Gallbladder
Surgery Singapore
6
Napier Rd, #04-16 Gleneagles Medical Centre,
Singapore
258499
