Colonoscopy Risks
Undergoing any colonoscopy procedure, whether this is virtual colonoscopy or the conventional colonoscopy, poses very little risks. Both of these procedures are relatively safe and patients can go back to their usual activities after taking some rest, following the procedure.
Patients who have undergone colonoscopy, usually experience few side effects. The side effects experienced are usually mild and occur very rarely.
Colonoscopy Risks
Having said that, colonoscopy, like any procedure, contains a few risks. Let us look into some of these possible risks.
One of the most frequently asked question concerning colonoscopy risks is regarding the possibility of hurting the large intestine in some way during a conventional colonoscopy. Since conventional colonoscopy requires the insertion of a tube or colonoscope into the large intestine through the anus, individuals fear that the insides of the intestines may be scratched or torn as the tube passes through the intestine.
The risk of this occurring is very low, particularly if the colonoscopy procedure was performed as simple check test and not done in order to remove polyps. However, should this occur, if the perforation is very small, antibiotics may be prescribed. If on the other hand, the tear is quite large, immediate surgery is required to mend the tear.
Side Effects of Colonoscopy
There have been very few cases where side effects occur after undergoing colonoscopy. However, in order to be well-informed about the possible side effects, the following lists some of the side effects to watch out for:
•bleeding: This may occur after a regular colonoscopy procedure and the chances of this happening are slightly higher during a colonoscopy procedure where polyps were removed. Bleeding after any of these procedures is not heavy and the patient may be advised to wait for some time since the bleeding will generally stop on its own. However, if bleeding is heavy, further medical attention is required. In cases where polyps are removed, the bleeding may last anywhere from two to seven days.
• itching or other allergic reactions: These may result from the anesthetic given to the patient for sedation. Other allergic reactions include vomiting and feeling nauseated.
• lightheadedness: This is also a result of having been sedated during a conventional colonoscopy procedure. This is why patients are asked to wait for at least thirty minutes after the procedure before leaving the hospital or clinic.
A full day’s rest is also advised in order to allow the effects of the sedative to completely wear off from the patient’s system.
Seeking for Clearance Prior to the Procedure
The elderly, people with diabetes, history of stroke, high blood pressure and heart failure should seek for clearance from their doctors prior to undergoing the procedure. They are more prone to developing the above mentioned side effects. In most cases, other tests to check for any possible abnormalities in the colon and rectum may be recommended instead of undergoing the procedure in order to avoid the risks caused due to colonoscopy.