The level of discomfort experienced during a colonoscopy.
A colonoscopy is a common medical procedure used to examine the colon for signs of cancer and other conditions. While the overall risk of complications is low, some people may experience pain, discomfort, or bleeding after the procedure.
Potential Symptoms and What to Do
If you experience severe pain, fever, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, bloody bowel movements, or bleeding from the anus after a colonoscopy, it's crucial to contact your doctor immediately. Bleeding that does not stop should also be addressed promptly.
Sedation and its Implications
Sedation during a colonoscopy can add resources and potential risks, but it is common in most colonoscopies in the U.S. to prevent pain during the procedure. An anesthesiologist inserts a needle into a vein and injects medication to help relax the patient.
However, a 2023 study investigated music, audiovisual distractions, and stress balls as alternatives to sedation for reducing colonoscopy pain. The study found that colonoscopy pain severity was lower in the music and audiovisual distraction groups compared to the stress ball and control groups, with people in the music group also reporting greater satisfaction after the procedure.
Effective Distraction Strategies
Effective distraction strategies to reduce pain during a colonoscopy without sedation mainly involve non-pharmacological approaches that help shift the patient's focus away from discomfort. These techniques include controlled breathing exercises, guided imagery, music therapy, or engaging conversation.
The presence and reassurance of attentive medical staff may also serve as a form of emotional distraction to ease anxiety. Moving around after the procedure to relieve residual discomfort caused by air in the colon is also advised.
Pain After a Colonoscopy
Pain after a colonoscopy usually occurs due to gas or pressure from the scope pressing on the lining of the colon, and these symptoms are typically temporary. If a doctor removed polyps during a colonoscopy, you may experience some discomfort and a small amount of blood in stools that decreases over time.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
Before the colonoscopy, a person lies on a table, usually in a hospital gown that is open at the back. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends colon cancer screenings, including colonoscopies, beginning at age 45 years.
Colonoscopy preparation can cause changes in bowel habits or symptoms, such as constipation or diarrhea, that continue after the procedure. People who do not undergo sedation may experience more pain during and after a colonoscopy than those who choose sedation.
Sedation Options
The USPSTF recommends discussing sedation options with a doctor for colonoscopies. A summary of research states that 2.8 out of 1,000 people having screening colonoscopies and 5 out of 1,000 symptomatic people undergoing colonoscopies experience complications.
In a 2018 study, most people did not mention experiencing pain during colonoscopies, with reports of pain less likely among those who had sedation. However, it's essential to discuss your preferences and concerns with your doctor to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.
- A 2023 study explored music, audiovisual distractions, and stress balls as alternatives to sedation for reducing colonoscopy pain, finding lower severity of pain in the music and audiovisual distraction groups.
- Effective distraction strategies to reduce pain during a colonoscopy without sedation include controlled breathing exercises, guided imagery, music therapy, engaging conversation, and the presence of attentive medical staff.
- Before starting a colon cancer screening, including colonoscopies, at the age of 45 years, the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends discussing sedation options with a doctor for colonoscopies.
- The 2018 study mentioned that most people did not report experiencing pain during colonoscopies, but it's crucial to discuss your preferences and concerns with your doctor to ensure comfort.
- Moving around after a colonoscopy to relieve residual discomfort caused by air in the colon is advised, while pain after a colonoscopy usually occurs due to gas or pressure from the scope and is temporary.
- Science, in the form of various studies, indicates that the overall risk of complications during colonoscopies is low, but it's crucial to address persistent symptoms like bleeding, severe pain, and shortness of breath immediately, as they may indicate medical-health concerns. CBD, while not directly related to colonoscopies, may be relevant to mental health discussions during consulting with your healthcare provider. Additionally, maintaining a focus on health and wellness, including fitness and exercise and a balanced diet, can contribute to overall chronic disease prevention.
