There is such a procedure as a colonoscopy. Does it hurt? It all depends on how to prepare and approach this examination. The mood, by the way, is no less important than preparation.
Colonoscopy: what is it?
What is a colonoscopy? Does it hurt ? These and many other questions arise in people to whom the doctor prescribed this procedure. In general, colonoscopy is a type of endoscopic examination that covers the colon. During this procedure, a special device is placed in the anus - a colonoscope, with the help of which the colon is examined from the inside.
Indications for colonoscopy
What are the indications for colonoscopy? There may be many.
1. Pain in the lower abdomen (both sharp and sharp, and pulling).
2. Problems with stool: constipation, loose stools or undigested food in feces.
3. Any intestinal bleeding.
4. Some suspicions of internal bleeding, such as anemia.
5. A sharp increase in the volume of the abdomen.
6. Sudden and rapid weight loss.
Contraindications
In all cases, can a colonoscopy be performed? Contraindications exist.
- Myocardial infarction.
- Peritonitis.
- Colitis (ulcerative or ischemic).
- Acute infections.
Features of the procedure: the possibility of pain
How is a colonoscopy performed? Does it hurt? In general, a colonoscope is a rather small device. In addition, no surgery is required. So in most cases, pain should not occur. The patient should lie on his side and pull his legs to his stomach, as much as possible relaxing the anus. If you follow the recommendations that the doctor gives, then there will not be severe pain. Of course, if the intestine has structural disorders, for example, adhesions or polyps, then in some places the colonoscope will come into contact with the mucous wall, which has many nerve endings, which will cause pain. As the device moves through the intestine, air will periodically be pumped (to straighten the walls and see their entire surface), so that unpleasant sensations and very strong urges to defecate can occur. The whole procedure lasts about half an hour, after it is better to lie on your stomach for 2 hours to prevent the appearance of cramping. You can eat and drink almost immediately. Anyone who believes that colonoscopy hurts should know that anesthesia can be used, but only in some cases.
Preparation for the procedure
Those patients who think about what a colonoscopy is, whether it hurts, should understand that in order to avoid unpleasant sensations, special attention should be paid to preparation. So, it is important that the intestines are empty before the procedure. The doctor will tell about all the subtleties, since everything depends on the specific case and the characteristics of the body.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we can add that colonoscopy is sometimes a necessary procedure. Do not be afraid of her, everything is tolerant. But after carrying out it will be possible to make sure that everything is in order, or to begin treatment in case of pathology.