Katy TX Colonoscopy Dr. James Maher is the go-to option for all things stomach problems. Whether you’re currently facing problems or want to know if you’re at risk, get in touch with James Maher Clinic by calling (281) 945-5190.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an exam that diagnoses stomach problems. Specifically, a colonoscopy detects changes and abnormalities inside the large intestine (colon) and rectum.
During this exam, patients are examined using a long and flexible tube (colonoscope). This tube is inserted into the rectum and has a tiny video camera attached to the tip. This tiny video camera sends images to a monitor, which doctors examine as they view the insides of the whole colon.
Whenever necessary, this procedure can also be used to remove any type of abnormal tissue, such as polyps. The scope can also take tissue samples (biopsies).
There are various reasons for why a colonoscopy can be needed, including:
To investigate intestinal symptoms:
Doctors use colonoscopies to explore possible causes for symptoms of intestinal problems, like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, and other intestinal problems.
Screening for colon cancer:
Patients over the age of 50, even those without any sign of colon cancer, should begin a process of having a colonoscopy every ten years or sometimes sooner. With said, there are other options for colon screening, and a colonoscopy is only one of them.
Looking for polyps:
If you have had polyps before, your doctor will likely request a follow-up exam. The reason for this is the possibility of additional polyps being found. Removing any additional polys reduces the risk of colon cancer.
How to Prepare
Prior to this type of procedure, patients will be asked to perform certain steps to ensure that their colon is completely empty before the exam. In preparation for the procedure, you should:
Follow a special diet:
You’ll have to stop eating solid foods the day before your exam. While you can have liquids, your doctor will ask that you only have very light fluids. For example, you may have broth, water, and gelatin that is not red.
Take a laxative:
Patients preparing for a colonoscopy take a special laxative. Your doctor will ask you to start the laxative early in the day to make sure your colon is cleared by the end of the day.
Using an enema kit:
When preparing for the procedure, you may have to use an over-the-counter enema kit. This step will take place the previous night or a few hours before the exam. The enema kit helps empty the colon. However, enema kits are usually only effective in emptying the lower colon, which is why they are not the primary way of emptying the colon.
Adjusting medications:
Remind your doctor of any type of medication you take at least a week prior to the exam. Medications or supplements that contain iron have to be adjusted. In addition, you should always tell your doctor about any medications such as aspirin, which thin the blood. These include warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven). Other medications you may need to stop taking are newer anticoagulants like dabigatran (Pradaxa) and rivaroxaban (Xarelto).
During the Procedure
During a colonoscopy, you’ll be wearing a surgical gown. Your doctor will give you general anesthesia, and you’ll be asleep during the exam. When starting the exam, you’ll be lying on the side of the exam table, with your knees drawn towards the chest.
Once everything is ready to go, the colonoscope will enter the rectum. The scope used is actually as long as the entire length of the colon, and contains a light and a tube (channel) that gives doctors the ability to pump air into the colon. Doctors pump air into the colon to inflate it. This is a necessary step as it provides a better view of the colon’s lining.
After the Procedure
Following the exam, you’ll spend about an hour recovering from the sedatives. You’ll have to arrange for a ride home. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure you don’t make any major decisions too soon afterward. Overall, you shouldn’t drive or take part in any major activities right after the procedure.
If you had a polyp removed during the colonoscopy, you’d be advised to eat a special diet temporarily. Moreover, if you feel bloated or are passing gas fairly frequently, this is the result of your colon clearing all the air. To help in this regard, you should walk around for a bit.
You may notice blood after your first bowel movement following the exam. Generally speaking, this isn’t a cause for alarm, but regardless, consult with your doctor if you continue to pass blood or blood clots. You should also consult with your doctor if you have persistent abdominal pain or a serious fever. All in all, Dr. Maher cares for patients as if they were part of the family, so you can rest easy knowing that you’ll be in the best hands possible.
Katy TX Colonoscopy Dr
There’s no need to live with stomach problems, just visit Katy TX Colonoscopy Dr. James Maher today and get effective treatments. As a Board Certified Gastroenterologists, Dr. Maher can take care of stomach problems in an effective and efficient fashion. You can reach the clinic of James Maher by calling (281) 945-5190. For more information, visit our website to learn more about our services and to check out our online patient forms. Katy TX Colonoscopy Dr. Maher is here to help, so call today.
Katy TX Fun Facts
- The city of Katy was once known as Cane Island
- Officially integrated in 1945
- Katy’s zip code is 77493
- Learn more about Katy here