A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows your doctor to evaluate your large intestine (colon) and rectum for abnormalities. They use a long, thin, flexible camera called a colonoscope to do this. Learn more about what’s involved on this page: https://www.andrea-digestive-clinic.com/colonoscopy/.

The colonoscope is inserted through the rectum into the colon. This may cause slight discomfort, but it generally doesn’t last long.

Your doctor will then guide the colonoscope through your entire colon, looking for anything abnormal. If they find anything suspicious, they may take a biopsy (a small tissue sample) for further testing.

A colonoscopy can detect many different problems, including:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): This includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
• Colorectal cancer: This is the second most deadly cancers in the world causing an estimated 0.9 million deaths. Colonoscopies can help to find polyps (precancerous growths) that can be removed before they turn into cancer.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): This chronic condition causes abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
• Infections: Infections such as C. difficile can cause diarrhea, cramping, and other symptoms.

A colonoscopy is the best way to detect and diagnose these conditions. It’s important to get one if you have any risk factors for these problems, such as a family history of them. You may also need a colonoscopy if you have symptoms like:

• Abdominal pain
• Changes in your bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or blood in your stool)
• Weight loss
• Fatigue

Your doctor will likely recommend a colonoscopy if you’re over the age of 50, as this is when the risk of colorectal cancer begins to rise. They may also recommend it sooner if you have a family history of the disease.

If you’re scheduled for a colonoscopy, there are a few things you need to do to prepare. First, you’ll need to clean out your colon by drinking a special solution or taking laxatives. This is important because it allows your doctor to get a clear view of the inside of your colon.

You’ll also need to fast for 8–12 hours before the procedure. This means no solid food or liquids, except for water. You may be able to have clear liquids (like broth or Jell-O) up to 2 hours before the procedure.

It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure that the procedure goes smoothly. You’ll be given sedatives through an IV to help you relax during the procedure. You won’t be asleep, but you may not remember much of the procedure.

The whole thing usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. Once it’s over, you’ll be taken to a recovery area to rest until the sedatives wear off. You may have some mild cramping or bloating after the procedure, but this generally goes away quickly. You should be able to go home the same day of your colonoscopy in Singapore.

Owing to the benefits that come with colonoscopy in Singapore, many people tend to ask, how can I get a colonoscopy in Singapore? Now, the process is quite simple;

To get a colonoscopy in Singapore, you will need to make an appointment with a surgeon. You will likely be asked to arrive early on the day of your procedure so that you can be given time to fill out paperwork and get prepared.

After the procedure, the doctor will put you under monitoring for a short period before you can be given the green light to go back home. While a colonoscopy may sound like a daunting procedure, it is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people. It is important to consult with a surgeon beforehand to discuss any potential risks or concerns.

Can you Request a Colonoscopy from your GP?

If you feel that you need a colonoscopy in Singapore, you could be wondering, can I request a colonoscopy from my GP? The answer is; yes. You can request a colonoscopy from your GP.

However, whether or not the GP will be able to refer you for one depends on local policy and the availability of resources. In some areas, GPs are able to refer patients directly for a colonoscopy, while in other areas; patients must first see a specialist such as a gastroenterologist.

If you would like to request a colonoscopy in Singapore, it is best to speak with your GP directly. It is also important that you provide any relevant information about your health history (including previous bowel procedures) so that your GP can make the best decision about whether or not a colonoscopy is appropriate for you.

What are the Risks and Side Effects of a Colonoscopy?

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks and potential side effects associated with colonoscopy. These include:

• Bleeding from the site where the biopsy was taken
• Infection
• Perforation (tear) in the colon
• Reactions to the sedatives used during the procedure

It is important to discuss these risks with your doctor before having a colonoscopy. While the risks are rare, it is important to be aware of them.

What should I expect After a Colonoscopy?

After a colonoscopy, you will likely be taken to a recovery area, where you will be monitored for any side effects. Once the sedatives have worn off, you will be able to go home.

As mentioned earlier, after the procedure, you may experience some cramping or bloating, but this is generally mild and should resolve quickly. You should be able to return to your normal activities within a day or two.

It is important to follow any instructions given to you by your doctor after the procedure, such as taking it easy for the first 24 hours or avoiding strenuous activity for a week.

You should also make sure to drink plenty of fluids and eat a high-fiber diet to help avoid constipation. If you experience any severe pain, bleeding, or other side effects, be sure to contact your doctor.

In closing, the process of getting a colonoscopy in Singapore is quite simple. You will need to make an appointment with a surgeon and arrive early on the day of your procedure. Once you have had the procedure, you will be able to go home the same day.

At Andrea’s Digestive, Colon, Liver and Gallbladder Clinic, we understand that the thought of having a colonoscopy can be daunting. However, our team of experienced and qualified surgeons is here to ensure that you have a comfortable and safe experience. Contact us today to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment. Call: +65 6264-2836.

 

Andrea’s Digestive Clinic: Colon, Liver, Gallbladder, GERD/Acid Reflux Specialist 

#21-11/12 Royal Square At Novena, 101 Irrawaddy Road Singapore 329565 

+65 6264 2836

 https://www.andrea-digestive-clinic.com