- You might notice a few drops of blood on your underwear, or you might see blood on the toilet paper after you use the bathroom. This is caused by irritation to the bowel during the procedure and is not a problem. However, if you have heavier bleeding or if the bleeding persists for 3 or more days after the procedure, contact our office.
- You may feel gas or cramps for a few hours. This is because air was introduced to the colon during the procedure. You should start to expel gas before you leave the hospital. However, if you have abdominal (stomach) pain or swelling, please call our office right away.
- You may feel nauseated today. This sometimes happens because of the medications that are used. This should get better within a few hours. If your nausea continues for more than 24 hours, contact our office.
- Begin taking small sips of water and progress to solid foods gradually as you are feeling better.
- Do not drive any motor vehicle or operate dangerous equipment. Weakness and lack of coordination are the result of the medications that were administered during the procedure.
- Do not conduct important business or sign any legal documents on the day of the procedure, since you may feel drowsy from the medications that were administered today.
- If you have redness or swelling at site where medications were given, place a warm wet washcloth over the affected area for twenty minutes. If the symptoms persist over two days, please contact our office.
- Call our office if you develop fever greater than 101 degrees or chills during the next 48 hours.
- Avoid heavy lifting or straining for one week.
- Avoid straining when you move your bowels.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR AFTER COLONOSCOPY
If you have any questions or any problems arise, please call our office at 800-489-0988 Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. If we are unavailable, please call your Doctor’s Office.
