A colonoscopy procedure is a visual exam of your entire colon and rectum in search of abnormalities. Colonoscopy is the number test performed for the screening of colon cancer. During the exam, a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube about the thickness of your ring finger, is inserted into your rectum. A tiny video camera at its tip lets your doctor view the inside of your colon.

If a polyp or abnormal tissue is found during the colonoscopy, chances are that your doctor will remove it at that time. Also, a tissue sample or biopsy of the polyp may be taken for lab analysis to determine whether surgical removal of the tissue is needed.

After the exam is over, you will need around an hour to partially recover from the sedative. You'll have to have a friend or family member to take you home because it can take up to a day for the full effects of the sedative to wear off. You'll be instructed to rest and not to drive for the rest of the day.

Following the colonoscopy procedure

After the procedure, you may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours. The good news is that you will probably feel better as you pass the gas. In most cases, walking will help you to feel better. If you have persistent pain after the procedure, tell your doctor.

You may also see a small amount of blood with your first bowel movement, don't panic, this is normal. See your doctor if you continue to pass blood or blood clots, have persistent abdominal pain, or have a fever of 100 F or higher.

These signs and symptoms can be the result of bleeding when a biopsy has been taken or, rarely, from perforation of the colon wall. Although these are rare, you need to be alert for these signs and symptoms, because they can be indicative to the need for medical attention.

If you would like to have a colonoscopy procedure done there are numerous medical facilities in your area where a doctor can assist you with this procedure, schedule your appointment today.

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