Colon Cancer Forum - Colonoscopy: distending and pressing on abdomen

Cancer > Colon Cancer Forum > Colonoscopy: distending and pressing on abdomen

Abdominal pain and bellyaches are common. Though most cases of abdominal pain aren't serious, sometimes you will need to see a doctor. We’ll review some of...

Q: Colonoscopy: distending and pressing on abdomen

asked by: Address7 on March 18th, 2008

New User

I have to have a colonoscopy. My doctor has told me how it works, but I would like to know two things, just so I'll know what to prepare for:

1. I heard they distend the colon with gas. I also heard that it is not really painful, but could be uncomfortable. What does it feel like, it it like your belly is being inflated? Is it visible from the outside? And does this bloated feeling disappear right after the colonoscopy is done?

2. I also heard they may press on your abdomen to guide the scope through the colon. Is this all the time, or just a little sometimes? (I have some personal issues with people touching my abdomen. For a colonoscopy I know that I'll have to deal with it, but want to know in advance how much of this poking I'll have to prepare for.)

Replies(1)

MandMs

replied on March 19th, 2008

Extremely eHealthy

The doctor will feed the colonoscope into your large intestine and as the tubing is advanced, air will be pumped into the colon to provide space for visualization. This will make you feel bloated.
You will be given pain medication and a moderate sedative to keep you comfortable and help you relax during the exam. During the procedure you may feel mild cramping. You can reduce the cramping by taking several slow, deep breaths.
You may feel some cramping or the sensation of having gas after the procedure is completed, but it usually stops within an hour.
When you gonna be examined with colonoscope?
Have you received preparing instructions?

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