Have you ever heard of the word «colonoscopy»? You might have seen it mentioned on TV or heard about it from someone you know who has had the procedure. If not, let us explain a bit about it. According to the American Cancer Society, a colonoscopy is a procedure used to detect cancer in the colon. The process is relatively straightforward, but it does require some preparation.
During the procedure, a doctor inserts a colonoscope—a long, flexible tube—into the rectum. The tube is about the size of a finger and has a small camera on the end that travels through the rectum, colon, and anus to examine these areas. Sometimes, a small tissue sample, called a biopsy, is taken for further testing in a lab, and you’ll receive the results later.
Colonoscopy is often recommended if you have a family history of colon cancer, especially in the United States, where your primary care doctor would typically order the procedure. In Mexico, however, you can request a colonoscopy without needing a medical prescription.
Preparing for a colonoscopy requires some steps the day before the procedure.
For a successful colonoscopy:
1. Your first colonoscopy might feel unexpected, especially if you’ve seen a loved one go through it with a lot of emotions involved. However, it’s crucial to prioritize your health to ensure a long, healthy future. In the past, this procedure was recommended for those over 50, but recently, the starting age has been lowered to 45. After your first one, your next preventive screening might not be needed for another ten years.
2. Properly preparing your colon is essential, and you’ll need to follow a strict regimen to ensure the procedure goes smoothly. This includes cleaning out your colon with laxatives 12 hours before the procedure and avoiding solid foods during this time.
3. During a colonoscopy, patients are typically sedated due to the anesthesia. The medical professional will administer relaxation medication through an IV to minimize any discomfort the procedure may cause. Although you’ll be conscious throughout the procedure, you may find it difficult to speak or move much under the effects of the anesthesia. The procedure usually lasts about 30-60 minutes, and the anesthesia may wear off by the next day.
4. It’s important not to attend your colonoscopy appointment alone. Since it can take some time for the anesthesia to completely wear off, you’ll need someone to look after you for at least a few hours after the procedure.
5. Are there alternatives to a colonoscopy? It depends. There are other options, such as fecal tests, that may be available. These tests involve submitting a stool sample to a lab for analysis, which can sometimes be used in place of the full procedure. While this is a common alternative, it hasn’t replaced the need for a colonoscopy altogether. Your doctor can provide the necessary materials to send your sample to the lab if this option is appropriate for you.
What should you expect after a colonoscopy? You may feel a bit bloated for a few hours as your colon readjusts, and you might experience some gas. It’s also possible that your first bowel movement after the procedure could have some blood.
The results usually take about 15 days.
If you have any other questions or are considering a colonoscopy, Mexico is here for you. We can provide a no-obligation quote and arrange your entire trip. A stay in the city for this procedure typically lasts about four days, with results available in a week through a virtual consultation.
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