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Pre / Post-Care Colonoscopy

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Colonoscopy Recovery At a Glance

  • Hospitalisation: Outpatient, same day
  • Walking: Immediately after procedure
  • Medication: Usually none
  • Meals: Resume normal diet after procedure
  • Shower: Same day
  • Flight: Same day
  • Back to Work: Next day
  • Exercise: Resume normal activity
Pre / Post Care

Pre / Post-Colonoscopy Care In A Nutshell

  • A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to look for abnormalities such as ulcers, bleeding, polyps, and tumours in the colon or rectum.
  • You will be required to take an oral laxative (bowel prep) to clear your bowels before the procedure.
  • In addition, you will need to fast at least 6 hours before your procedure.
  • It is normal to experience mild discomfort, gas, and bloating after the procedure.
  • Downtime: Minimal – You may resume normal activities after 1-2 days. You will be discharged on the same day following the procedure.
  • A follow-up session will be arranged to explain the results of your investigation.

What Is A Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows your doctor to examine the lining of your colon (large intestine). This test looks for abnormalities such as ulcers, bleeding, polyps, and tumours. 

A colonoscopy can also be used to take biopsies (samples of tissue) for further testing. The procedure is performed using a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope. The colonoscope has a small camera at the end, allowing your doctor to see the lining of your colon. 

The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means you can go home the same day. The entire procedure usually takes 30-60 minutes.

What Conditions Is A Colonoscopy Used To Treat?

A colonoscopy is usually conducted as a diagnostic procedure to look for abnormal signs within the colon and rectum. It can screen for cancerous growths or polyps, abnormal bleeding, ulcers, and inflammation. 

It can also diagnose other conditions, such as Crohn’s disease and colitis.

A colonoscopy can also be used to remove polyps, which are small growths that can become cancerous if left untreated. 

In most cases, a colonoscopy is a safe and effective way to detect and treat problems in the colon.

What To Expect Before & After A Colonoscopy With G & L Surgical Clinic

Preparing for your colonoscopy is an important part of the procedure. Dr Ganesh and our team at G&L Surgical Clinic will provide you with specific instructions on preparing, which may include fasting for a period of time before the procedure and taking oral laxatives to clean out your gastrointestinal tract. 

Following our doctor’s instructions carefully will help ensure that your colonoscopy is safe and successful.

On the day of the procedure, you are recommended to have someone drive you home after your procedure. You should also wear comfortable clothing and remove all jewellery, including body piercings. 

Most importantly, you will need to follow a specific diet the day before your colonoscopy. This usually involves drinking only clear liquids and avoiding solid food the day before the procedure. 

Additionally, you will need to take a laxative to help clear your system and fast for 6 hours before the procedure. 

It is important that you follow these instructions carefully and inform our clinic if you have any questions about the procedure.

Fasting before a colonoscopy is necessary because it allows the doctor to get a clear view of the inside of your colon. During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into your rectum and passed through your large intestine. 

If there is food in your intestine, it can block the view of the camera and make it difficult to detect any problems. For this reason, you will need to fast for at least 6 hours before your procedure. This means that you should not eat or drink anything during this time. 

Before the procedure, you will also need to do a bowel prep to empty your bowels. 

Following these instructions will help ensure that your colonoscopy is successful and that any problems are detected early.

You are not required to stop taking your regular medications before a colonoscopy. However, there are a few exceptions. 

If you are taking blood thinners or diabetes medication, please let us know in advance so that we can provide specific instructions. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our clinic. We are more than happy to help you prepare for your upcoming procedure and assist you with your queries.

You are not required to undergo any pre-admission tests before a colonoscopy. However, Dr Ganesh may need you to undergo a physical examination and review your medical history to determine if a colonoscopy is recommended.

The typical recovery period after a colonoscopy is 24 to 48 hours. It is important to rest and drink plenty of fluids during this time.

Most people feel tired and crampy for a day or two after the procedure. It is also common to have some gas and to bloat. These symptoms usually improve within a few days. In some cases, you may experience diarrhoea for an additional 2-3 days following the bowel prep. If this occurs, it is important to stay hydrated and avoid becoming dehydrated.

It is also important to avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours after the procedure. This will help to reduce the risk of bleeding.

Please contact our clinic if yo

In most cases, a colonoscopy is a one-time procedure. 

However, you may need follow-up procedures if you have an abnormal growth or polyp. Our doctor will discuss the need for any follow-up procedures with you once we have obtained your investigative report. 

The most common follow-up procedure is a repeat colonoscopy. This is typically done in 2 to 5 years to ensure that the abnormal growth has been removed and that there are no new ones. Additionally, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps, the frequency of a repeat procedure might be shorter. 

In cases where a medical condition is detected, Dr Ganesh will discuss the possible treatment options and recommend a suitable treatment plan for you.

If you have any questions about what to expect, please do not hesitate to contact our clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is normal to have a small amount of blood in your stool after a colonoscopy. This can occur due to the biopsies taken during the procedure or irritation of the intestinal lining. However, if the bleeding is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is important to contact your doctor for medical advice.

After a colonoscopy, you may resume your normal diet, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. It is recommended to start with light, easily digestible foods and gradually progress to your regular diet. This helps to prevent discomfort from gas or bloating in the initial hours after the procedure. 

Following a colonoscopy, you can typically drink coffee unless your doctor advises otherwise. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s tolerance to caffeine varies, so it’s best to listen to your body and consume it in moderation.

Alcohol consumption after a colonoscopy is generally discouraged, especially on the day of the procedure and the same day after the procedure. The sedative medications used during the colonoscopy can interact with alcohol and may increase its effects. It is advisable to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding alcohol consumption during the post-colonoscopy period.

After a colonoscopy, it is normal for bowel movements to take some time to return to their usual pattern. Factors such as the type of sedation used and the presence of any biopsies or polyp removal can affect bowel movements. Most individuals resume normal bowel movements within a few days, but it can vary from person to person. If you have concerns about the timing or consistency of your bowel movements after a colonoscopy, it is best to consult with your doctor for clarifications.

Why Choose Us For Your Colonoscopy In Singapore?

Dr Ganesh at G & L Surgical Clinic strives to prioritise his patients’ recovery and comfort. Having had adequate experience performing colonoscopies for numerous patients for many years in Singapore.

Furthermore, G & L Surgical Clinic staff have been thoroughly and adequately trained to make your experience comfortable and hassle-free. Whether you intend to undergo a colonoscopy or other medical services in Singapore, you can rest assured that you will be properly and sufficiently cared for by trained professionals.

Organise a consultation with our surgeons for further assistance on colonoscopies in Singapore.