Colonoscopy confidence - your common sense bowel check
Colonoscopy confidence – your common sense bowel check
We know some people feel anxious or worried when they’re told they need a colonoscopy but it’s important to have this test if you’re referred. That’s why Bowel Cancer UK have launched the Colonoscopy Confidence campaign to explain what a colonoscopy is, why it matters and encourage people to attend their appointment.
If you’ve been asked by your doctor to have a colonoscopy it’s because they suspect something isn’t quite right about your bowel or colon, and they’d like a specialist to take a closer look. The procedure involves an endoscopist putting a thin flexible tube with a camera on the end up your bottom so they can see the inside of your bowel.
Colonoscopy is a very common procedure
- Thousands of colonoscopies are carried out across the UK every week. They give endoscopists a close-up view of the inside of your bowel so they can clearly see if there’s anything wrong. A colonoscopy can feel a little uncomfortable, but it’s an important part of maintaining good all-round health.
- Most people who have a colonoscopy won’t have bowel cancer. But, if bowel cancer is detected at its earliest stage nearly everybody is treated successfully.
- That’s why if you have an appointment for a colonoscopy, it is really important that you attend – let’s keep your bowel in good health.
The procedure was very straight forward, well-organised, painless. Everybody was so nice. I just couldn’t fault it.
What does a colonoscopy involve?
- Before your colonoscopy you’ll be asked to drink a strong laxative. This cleans your bowel thoroughly so the endoscopist can spot any changes. But it will mean frequent trips to the toilet.
- When you arrive at your appointment you’ll be asked to change into a gown which keeps you modest during the colonoscopy. A nurse will explain the procedure, and ask you to lie on your side.
- The endoscopist will then put a thin flexible tube with a camera on the end up your bottom so they can see the inside of your bowel. It’s usually painless and only takes about 30 minutes – there can be some discomfort, so you’ll be offered a painkiller or sedative if you wish.
- The endoscopist may remove polyps (non-cancerous growths) or tissue samples if they think anything needs a closer look. Most people who have a colonoscopy won’t have bowel cancer. But, if bowel cancer is detected at its earliest stage nearly everybody is treated successfully. That’s why if you have an appointment for a colonoscopy, it is really important that you attend – let’s keep your bowel in good health.
For more information visit bowelcanceruk.org.uk/colonoscopyconfidence
Without a colonoscopy, I wouldn't be here today
