Yes, a referral from your primary care doctor is required before we can schedule the procedure. Once you have a referral, we’ll help you find a convenient day and time for your appointment.

Since a polyp can be as small as a millimeter, following your doctor’s food and drink guidelines is very important.

• Bowel preparation: To get a clear visual of any potential polyps, your digestive tract and bowels need to be cleared. Your doctor will prescribe you some medicine to ingest prior to the colonoscopy.
• Dietary adjustments: Your doctor may recommend a specific diet or to minimize certain foods before the procedure.
• Medication changes: You may need to stop using some medications for weight loss, iron, blood thinners and diabetes, as well as supplements prior to your colonoscopy. Consult with your doctor about both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication you’re taking.

Most importantly, follow any instructions your doctor gives you, so you don’t need to reschedule and prep all over again. If you have any questions, call the clinic where your colonoscopy is scheduled.

A colonoscopy is typically a quick and painless procedure. We have steps in place to keep you comfortable and safe.

• Monitoring: Throughout the procedure your vital signs will be monitored.
• Polyp removal and/or biopsy: If any polyps are found during the colonoscopy, they’ll be removed. Samples of any abnormalities will be taken to conduct a biopsy.
• Positioning: You’ll lie on your side with your knees bent.
• Scope insertion: A colonoscope, a thin flexible tube that has a light and a camera, will be inserted into your rectum and used to view your colon.
• Sedation: You’ll be sedated to help ease any discomfort you might feel and to help you relax.

If you have a colonoscopy scheduled, here are factors to keep in mind before your appointment:

• Follow-up care: Your doctor may want to schedule a follow-up appointment or additional screenings. If you had any biopsies taken, the results can take several days.
• Gas and bloating: It’s typical to experience bloating, gas or minimal cramping following a colonoscopy. These side effects will typically disappear after a few hours.
• Grogginess: You’ll be given a sedative for your procedure, so you’ll need to plan ahead. The grogginess will wear off as you recover throughout the day. 
  • You must have a ride home from your procedure as you will be drowsy from the medications. We offer comfortable seating and Wi-Fi access while your designated driver waits for your procedure to be completed.
• Reduced diet: Your doctor may suggest that you ease into your regular diet and start with some lighter meals following your procedure.

Cancer doesn’t always have recognizable symptoms when it’s just beginning – and that’s when it’s easiest to treat.

Colon cancer symptoms could potentially include:

• Pain when using the bathroom
• Rectal bleeding, the most common symptom
• Unintentional weight loss
• Unexplained constipation or other changes in bowel habits

Speak with your primary care provider for more information on colorectal cancer screenings. Make sure they’re aware of any family history of colorectal cancer.

And if it's time for your first – or next – colonoscopy, don't put it off. It could save your life!

Yes, symptoms for colorectal cancer may not appear until the disease is more advanced.

It’s recommended to get regular colonoscopy screenings beginning at age 45 if you’re at average risk of colorectal cancer – even if you don’t have any symptoms. Talk with your doctor about your medical and family history to determine if you have additional risk factors to consider.

Colonoscopies may have a bad reputation, but you’ll be given medication that helps you sleep and minimizes your discomfort during the procedure. Although the procedure is unpleasant, the preparation has gotten easier as experts have refined the process over time.

In addition to colonoscopies, several screening options are available, including a take-home option known as the fecal immunochemical test (FIT).

Both screening options can detect precancerous polyps in the colon. No matter which screening option you have, it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations afterward:

• If you have a positive FIT test, you’ll need to follow up and get a colonoscopy.
• If you have a colonoscopy and the doctor removes polyps, you'll need to return for follow-up colonoscopies on a regular schedule.

A colonoscopy is a generally safe diagnostic procedure. Despite the unlikelihood of a complication occurring, the procedure does carry certain risks.

These risks could potentially include:

• Bleeding, should a biopsy or polyp removal occur
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Rectal irritation

If no polyps were found during your screening and you’re at average risk, you may not need another colonoscopy for 10 years. If your doctor does find and remove any polyps, or you have certain risk factors like a family history of colorectal cancer, they may recommend you get more frequent screenings.

Most insurance plans cover colorectal cancer screenings. Since coverage and plans can vary, it’s best to confirm with your insurance provider directly before scheduling a visit.

At Providence, you’ll find the treatment and support you need. Our skilled team members will outline your treatment options and connect you with many helpful resources.

Resources:

• Take a closer look at the Providence Colorectal Cancer Program
• Learn more about colorectal cancer
• Explore more about colon cancer screenings, therapies and clinical trials
• Read about rectal cancer diagnostic services, surgery and treatment options
• Are polyps cancer?

Colorectal cancer screening saves lives

Get the facts, risk factors and screening options. Download an infographic to learn more.

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