Colonoscopy Specialist

What is colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy focuses on examining your colon and rectum. In a colonoscopy, you’ll lie on your left side as Dr. Shah moves a thin flexible tube through your rectum and colon. 

The tube houses a tiny camera and light, allowing Dr. Shah to closely examine every part of your colon and rectum. Colonoscopy is a comfortable procedure because you’ll receive sedation and anesthesia beforehand.

When might I need a colonoscopy?

The primary purpose of a colonoscopy is the detection of abnormalities of the colon lining, such as inflammation, ulcers, or colon polyps. A colon polyp is a clump of cells that could become cancerous if left to grow. In most cases, Dr. Shah can remove polyps during your colonoscopy. 

Everyone needs to start colon cancer screening at age 45 (earlier if you have colon cancer risk factors). Colonoscopy is the most reliable way to identify potentially cancerous polyps, so it’s the most dependable of all colon cancer screening tests. Most people with average colon cancer risk will need a colonoscopy only once every 10 years.

Colonoscopy can also help to identify the cause of symptoms such as rectal bleeding, significant bowel habit changes, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. 

After a colonoscopy and comprehensive physical exam, Dr. Shah may also diagnose conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

What should I do prior to colonoscopy?

Before your colonoscopy, you need to completely empty your gastrointestinal tract of stool so Dr. Shah can see your colon and rectum as clearly as possible. 

You’ll receive detailed written instructions for bowel prep. This commonly includes a clear liquid diet, fasting, and using a laxative the night before your procedure. In some cases, Dr. Shah also recommends a temporary change in your medication schedule.

Arrange for a loved one or someone you can trust to be there (in the waiting area) at your scheduled appointment. They’ll need to drive you home afterward because you may still be a little tired from the sedation.

What happens after a colonoscopy?

After your colonoscopy, you can usually resume your normal diet whenever you’re ready to eat. Drinking plenty of fluids can help to replace the fluids you lost during bowel prep, which can help you get back to regular bowel movements within a few days. 

If you change your medication temporarily, Dr. Shah tells you exactly when to resume your usual schedule.

Most people rest for the remainder of the day and return to their routine the next day. If you had colon polyp removal, you may have a slightly longer recovery. 

Depending on your results and diagnosis, you may need a follow-up colonoscopy later. If you’re diagnosed with a condition like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or colon cancer, Dr. Shah explains all the treatment options and helps you to start the most effective treatment right away.

To schedule an appointment for a colonoscopy, call The Gastroenterology Practice in Queens, New York, or book online today.