Colonoscopy: Best Way to Recover From Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is an examination administered on the large intestine and the rectum. This procedure helps the doctors to figure out the unexplained changes in the bowel habits of the patient. It is also being used to determine the cause of weight loss and abdominal pain. Furthermore, most doctors are also using colonoscopy to screen for cancer.

The procedure itself is a bit awkward for the patient. A tube with a camera is being inserted into the rectum. This live video feed can help the doctor to examine the colon. In order not to feel the pain, the patient is asked to take sedative.

After the examination, there are rising questions like “how can I recover from colonoscopy?” or “what will I do after the examination?”

Here are some advises about what to do when you are in a colonoscopy recovery:

Recovery 1: Waking Up

When you wake up from colonoscopy, the nurse or the health care provider will give you a cracker and a drink. The first things you will feel after the procedure are hunger and thirst. Besides, the doctor had advised the patient not to eat the day before the examination.

From here, the nurse will monitor your recovery until you go home.

Recovery 2: Going Home

You must let your family or friend to drive you home. The sedative used in the procedure will usually stay in your system for a few hours. Thus, the patient is advised not to travel on his own he or she is even prohibited to go on a public transportation. However, if you have no choice then ask someone to assist you.

Recovery 3: Instructions

When you are discharged from the hospital, the doctor will give you prescriptions and advises on how to recover from colonoscopy. You must pay attention to these materials because they are your only way to full recovery.

Recovery 4: Eating at Home

Eat a simple meal during the evening. This will help you reclaim your strength. Actually, you are allowed to eat whatever you want there are no restrictions in food on the night of the examination. However, don’t let your stomach be overloaded. This is not a good idea since your stomach is empty for a long time. If your belly is feeling sensitive, you can just take a few slices of toast.

Recovery 5: Sleeping

At home, you must spend the evening resting. Besides, the sedative in your system will make you feel dizzy and sleepy. There might be some discomfort and bleeding in your rectum, but these should not alarm you they are normal results of the examination.

Recovery 6: Medicine

In order for you to fully recover from colonoscopy, you must take some pain relief especially when you are feeling sore in your rectum.

Recovery 7: Support

If you are suffering from serious side effects, immediately call the doctor for advices. Serious effects could be fever, bleeding in the stool, abdominal pain, dizziness and weakness.

Recovery 8: Strengthening

You must not drink alcohol or do heavy works for 24 hours after the colonoscopy. The sedation in your system might impair your reasoning.