A colonoscopy is an exam of the large intestine, or colon, and during the test, a doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a small camera that sends images to a screen. You receive sedation beforehand, and most people sleep through the procedure. The exam takes 40 to 60 minutes. Here is more information on the role of this procedure:
Identifying Gastrointestinal Issues
A colonoscopy helps doctors explain ongoing digestive symptoms. Urgent care clinics treat many stomach complaints, and some cases need a closer look. When symptoms last for weeks, a provider may refer you to a digestive specialist for this exam. The main reasons for a referral include:
- Dark, tarry stools or rectal bleeding
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation that lasts for weeks
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal pain that keeps returning
- Low iron levels with no clear cause
The camera shows swelling, sores, and bleeding sites, and it also reveals narrowed areas. While these symptoms have many possible causes, the images help narrow the list. Doctors use the findings to diagnose conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and diverticulosis.
Screening for Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer may start as small growths called polyps, and these growths may not cause symptoms at first. A colonoscopy lets a doctor see polyps directly. Since early changes stay hidden, many health groups recommend routine screening for adults without symptoms.
The American Cancer Society advises that adults at average risk begin screening at age 45. Some people need earlier tests, and others need them more often. Family history and certain bowel diseases raise your risk. Your doctor will set a schedule based on these factors.
A normal result typically means you can wait several years for your next exam. If the doctor finds polyps, your next exam may come sooner. Stool-based tests offer another option, but a positive result leads to a follow-up colonoscopy.
Taking Biopsies
When the doctor sees an unusual area, they may remove a tiny tissue sample. Doctors call this sample a biopsy. A lab examines the tissue under a microscope, and the results show whether cells look normal, inflamed, or abnormal. Results typically take several days, and your doctor’s office will contact you with the findings. Ask how the office shares results, such as by phone or through a patient portal.
Removing Abnormal Tissue
Doctors remove most polyps during the same exam, so you avoid a separate procedure. A wire loop or small forceps cuts the growth free. Since many colorectal cancers begin as polyps, removal takes this tissue out before it has a chance to change.
If the doctor removes a polyp, you may notice mild cramping or light spotting afterward. These effects typically pass within a day, but heavy bleeding or a fever needs prompt care. Your care team will give you written discharge instructions.
Schedule a Colonoscopy Today
Talk with your primary care provider about your screening schedule. Before you book, ask your insurer about any out-of-pocket costs. If you have digestive symptoms now, a provider can review your symptoms and discuss next steps. Severe pain or heavy bleeding needs emergency care, and you should call 911 in those cases.