Colonoscopy is a medical procedure to check the health of the intestines by looking inside the intestines. During a colonoscopy, the doctor uses a long, thin tube, called a colonoscope, to enter the inside of the intestine through the anus and observe the condition of the intestinal mucosa to check for abnormalities such as inflammation, polyps, tumors, etc.
Colonoscopy is a very effective method for diagnosing intestinal diseases, which can help doctors detect intestinal problems in time and provide patients with accurate treatment options.
Before undergoing colonoscopy, patients need to do some preparations, such as emptying the bowel, taking sedatives, etc., to ensure the accuracy of the examination and the comfort of the patient.
During a colonoscopy, the doctor injects air into the inside of the intestine through the colonoscope to dilate the intestine and make it easier to see. At the same time, the doctor will also use special tools, such as biopsy forceps, electric knife, etc., to sample or remove abnormal tissue in the intestine. These samples are then sent to a laboratory for further analysis and diagnosis.
Although colonoscopy is a relatively safe medical procedure, there are still certain risks during the examination, such as intestinal perforation, bleeding, etc.
Therefore, before undergoing a colonoscopy, the doctor will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient's physical condition to ensure that the patient is suitable for the examination. At the same time, during the examination, the doctor will pay close attention to the patient's reaction and changes in the condition, and take necessary measures in time to ensure the patient's safety.
01
Why are many people reluctant to have colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy, as a means of medical examination, has an irreplaceable role in diagnosing intestinal diseases. However, in practice, it is not difficult to find that many people are resistant to this inspection.
The discomfort of colonoscopy is one of the main reasons why it is avoided. During the examination, patients need to endure a certain amount of bloating and discomfort, which is a great test for many people.
Especially in modern society, with the acceleration of the pace of life, people's ability to tolerate pain is gradually reduced, which makes the acceptance of colonoscopy further reduced.
Misconceptions about colonoscopy are also an important factor that leads people to avoid colonoscopy. Some people believe that colonoscopy can damage the intestines and may even trigger more serious diseases.
This misconception leads them to avoid doctor's advice. However, in fact, colonoscopy is a safe means of examination and will not cause damage to the body as long as it is performed properly.
In addition, concerns about the results of colonoscopy have led some people to avoid the test. They are afraid that the results of the examination will reveal serious problems and cause problems in their lives.
This concern is understandable to a certain extent, but it should also be seen that with colonoscopy, we can detect and treat intestinal diseases in time, thus avoiding further deterioration of the condition.
02
How long is the "validity period" of a colonoscopy?
The "expiration date" of a colonoscopy refers to the period of time within which the results of the intestinal health assessment are valid after the colonoscopy. This expiration date is not fixed, but is affected by a variety of factors, such as individual differences, gut health, lifestyle habits, etc.
First of all, individual differences are one of the important factors that determine the validity period of colonoscopy. Everyone's gut condition is unique, and some people may be born with a healthy gut, while others may have some underlying gut problems. Therefore, the expiration date of the results of the gut health assessment will also vary from person to person.
Secondly, the health of the gut can also affect the validity period of the colonoscopy. If some problems are found during the colonoscopy, such as polyps, inflammation, etc., then it is necessary to treat and follow up accordingly according to the doctor's advice. In this case, the colonoscopy may be valid for a relatively short period of time and regular follow-up tests are required to ensure intestinal health.
In addition, lifestyle habits will also have an impact on the validity period of the colonoscopy. Good eating habits, regular daily routine, and proper exercise can help maintain intestinal health, thereby prolonging the validity period of colonoscopy. On the contrary, poor lifestyle habits may lead to aggravation of intestinal problems and shorten the validity period of the colonoscopy.
In summary, the "expiration date" of a colonoscopy is a relatively flexible concept that is affected by a variety of factors. In order to maintain intestinal health, we should pay attention to the adjustment of personal lifestyle habits, have regular colonoscopy, and carry out corresponding treatment and follow-up according to the doctor's advice.
03
If you have 5 symptoms in your body, you should be reminded that it is time for a colonoscopy
First of all, blood in the stool is one of the common symptoms of intestinal diseases. If you notice bright red or dark red blood during bowel movements, especially if accompanied by mucus or purulent discharge, it is likely that there is a problem with your intestines. At this time, timely colonoscopy can identify the cause of bleeding and avoid further deterioration of the condition.
Secondly, chronic diarrhea is also a manifestation of intestinal diseases. If diarrhea lasts for a long time and is accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating, then it may be caused by diseases such as intestinal inflammation or intestinal infection. In this case, colonoscopy can help doctors find the lesion and develop a more precise treatment plan.
In addition, constipation can also be a sign of intestinal disease. Long-term constipation not only leads to the accumulation of toxins in the intestines, but also may cause intestinal inflammation, intestinal polyps and other problems.
Therefore, when you find that you often experience constipation symptoms, you should also consider a colonoscopy so that intestinal diseases can be detected and treated in time.
In addition to the above symptoms, abdominal pain, abdominal lumps, etc., can also be a sign of intestinal diseases. These symptoms can be manifestations of diseases such as intestinal polyps, intestinal inflammation, intestinal tumors, etc. Through colonoscopy, doctors can more accurately judge the condition and formulate a personalized treatment plan for the patient.
04
What preparations do patients need to make before having a colonoscopy?
First of all, patients need to adjust their eating habits in advance under the guidance of their doctors. Usually, doctors will ask patients to start a low-residue diet a few days before the test and avoid high-fiber, high-residue foods to reduce the residue in the intestines.
In addition, patients will also need to have a bowel cleanse the night before the test, usually with oral laxatives to empty the intestinal contents, so that the doctor can clearly see what is going on inside the intestines.
In addition to dietary adjustments, patients also need to pay attention to lifestyle adjustments. Before the examination, patients should avoid strenuous exercise so as not to affect the peristalsis and cleansing effect of the intestines. At the same time, maintaining a good routine and getting enough sleep are also very important for the body to recover and adapt.
Psychologically, patients also need to be well prepared. Although colonoscopy is an effective diagnostic tool, it is still an unfamiliar examination method for many patients, and there may be a certain sense of nervousness and fear.
Therefore, patients can reduce psychological stress and maintain a relaxed and optimistic attitude by communicating with the doctor, understanding the examination process, and listening to the doctor's advice.