FAQ Category: COLONOSCOPY PROCEDURE
How often do I need a colonoscopy?
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If normal, usually every 10 years after age 45. If polyps or risk factors are present, your doctor may recommend earlier follow-ups.
What is recovery like after a colonoscopy?
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Recovery is usually quick. After the procedure, you’ll rest in a recovery area until the sedation starts to wear off. You might feel a bit groggy, bloated, or gassy. Because of the sedation, you are not allowed to drive, so you must have someone to take you home. Most people feel back to normal by…
How long does the procedure take?
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The colonoscopy itself typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, you should plan to be at the clinic or hospital for a total of 2 to 3 hours. This includes the time needed for pre-procedure preparation, the exam itself, and a recovery period while the initial effects of the sedation wear off.
Is a colonoscopy painful?
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No, the procedure itself is generally not painful. You’ll receive a sedative or anesthesia to help you relax and feel comfortable, and most patients don’t remember the procedure afterward. You might experience some mild cramping or a feeling of bloating after the exam is finished, but this usually subsides quickly.
