As a gastroenterologist who has been working in clinical practice for many years, I know that colonoscopy can be a worrying thing for many people. Many patients ask the same question during consultation: "How painful is colonoscopy?" In fact, the answer to this question is not a single one, it involves many factors, including the individual's pain threshold, the preparation process, and the skill of the operating physician. I will share some of my experiences in outpatient clinics, especially about those cases where colonoscopy is necessary even if you are afraid. For example, I once met a middle-aged male patient who had significant weight loss and recurrent diarrhea that caught our attention. Despite his fear of colonoscopy, he agreed to the examination with our insistence and detailed explanation. Examination results revealed multiple large polyps in his colon, which directly pointed to a high-risk precancerous state. This example clearly illustrates that even in the face of fear, colonoscopy is indispensable in some cases.
The actual feeling of colonoscopy
1. Describe common feelings during colonoscopy: Colonoscopy usually involves inserting a flexible tube (with a built-in camera) into the rectum and large intestine to see what's going on inside the intestine. During this process, you may feel bloating and pressure in your abdomen. Because for better observation, doctors inject air into the intestines, which can cause temporary discomfort or minor pain. In fact, the level of pain during a colonoscopy varies from person to person. Most people describe discomfort as more of a feeling of pressure caused by gas than pain. Some people may experience mild colic, especially if the colonoscopy tube goes around the curved part of the large intestine. 2. Explain why colonoscopy is generally perceived to be painful; With advances in modern medical technology, such as the use of softer and more flexible colonoscopy equipment, and the sophistication of doctors' techniques, the discomfort of this examination has been greatly reduced.
In addition, in order to alleviate the discomfort of patients, many hospitals now provide mild sedation during colonoscopy. This sedative allows the patient to remain semi-awake during the exam, reducing tension and discomfort, but enough to make the patient feel little to no pain throughout the procedure. Although colonoscopy can be psychologically and physically uncomfortable, it is completely manageable with the right expectations and modern medical measures. In fact, colonoscopy is a very effective diagnostic tool for the early detection of intestinal problems such as polyps, inflammation and even early cancer.
Four groups of people who need to be prioritized for colonoscopy
1. People with a family history of colon cancer or polyps: Importance: People with a family history of colon cancer or colorectal polyps have an increased risk of developing the same disease. Procedure: Once a family history is confirmed, it is recommended to start regular colonoscopy at the age of 40 or 10 years from the age of the person who found the history. Preventive significance: Early detection to improve cure and survival rates. 2. Long-term unexplained dyspepsia, abdominal pain: Diagnostic needs: Persistent digestive problems such as abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation, or abnormal diarrhea may be a sign of colorectal lesions. Procedure: When such symptoms are encountered, a routine physical examination should be performed first, and if symptoms persist, a colonoscopy should be performed to rule out the underlying serious condition. Health management: Colonoscopy can identify the cause and treat the symptoms. 3. Patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease: Disease monitoring: Patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) need to have their bowel monitored regularly.
Procedure: Depending on your doctor's recommendations, a colonoscopy may be needed every 1 to 2 years to assess inflammatory activity and monitor for potential complications. Prevent complications: Regular check-ups can help detect complications such as bowel cancer early. 4. Adults over 50 years of age: General recommendation: Adults over 50 years of age should start regular colonoscopy even if they are asymptomatic. Procedure: Routine colonoscopy every 10 years, or adjust the frequency according to your doctor's recommendations. Prevention Strategies: This is an important strategy for the prevention of colorectal cancer and helps in early detection and treatment. Through the practical cases and popular science of the above groups, we hope to increase the public's awareness of the importance of colonoscopy and reduce the delay in diagnosis and treatment due to fear or misunderstanding.
Ways to reduce the pain of colonoscopy
Preparation phase: Discomfort can be alleviated with the right preparation: Proper diet: Start adjusting your diet a few days before the exam. Avoid foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, nuts and certain fruits and vegetables. Eat only light, easily digestible foods the day before, such as broths and juices. Cleanse the bowel: Use a doctor's recommended bowel cleanser, such as a polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution, and follow the instructions to thoroughly clean the bowel, which can help reduce discomfort and time during the exam. During the exam: Techniques and strategies to reduce pain: Deep breathing: During the exam, deep breathing can help the body relax and reduce pain. Communication: Communicate with your doctor so that he or she understands your comfort level and can adjust the operation if necessary. Sedation and anesthesia: If necessary, sedation or local anesthesia may be requested, which can significantly reduce discomfort. It's important to talk to your doctor about these options and their possible effects. Recovery after the test: Ensure a smooth recovery: Rest: After the test, take time to rest until the effects of the anesthesia or sedation have completely subsided. Eat in moderation: Start by choosing foods that are easy to digest, such as soup and porridge, and gradually transition to a normal diet. Don't worry too much: While colonoscopy may sound worrying, proper preparation and the use of modern medical technology can significantly reduce the discomfort of the procedure. Colonoscopy is a powerful tool to help ensure gut health and identify and treat potential problems in a timely manner.