I was referred to Dr. Murrell by my OB/GYN because I turned 50, so it was time for my colonoscopy! His office got me in for a consultation within a couple of days, and his entire staff was warm and friendly. Dr. Murrell himself was engaging, funny, and a very good listener. I think he's just amazing!! I highly recommend him!
Do you get colonoscopy results immediately?
If the results of a colonoscopy are normal, the doctor will let you know right away. If a biopsy is performed or a polyp is removed, it may take several days to determine the findings. The official lab results will arrive in a few weeks.
Is it better to have a colonoscopy in the morning or afternoon?
According to medical studies, the results may be more accurate when a colonoscopy is performed earlier in the day during the morning hours. While it may be inconvenient to arrive early, the benefits of a clearer diagnosis are undeniable.
Can I go to work the day after a colonoscopy?
Patients will need a friend or family member to drive them home after surgery and assist them for the first 24 hours. No driving or machinery use should occur during this time as the sedation wears off. Patients may feel gassy or bloated temporarily after their procedures, so they may want to wait a day before returning to work for this reason as well.
What happens if they find cancerous polyps during a colonoscopy?
If a polyp is found to be cancerous, the surrounding lymph nodes will also be biopsied to ensure that the cancer has not spread to other regions of the body. Radiation or chemotherapy may be recommended, depending on the specifics of the case.
Can you be left alone after a colonoscopy?
Patients are sedated during a colonoscopy, so afterward, they will be groggy and may lose coordination. It is imperative that a responsible adult accompanies the patient home after their surgery and stays with them for the first 24 hours.
Do colonoscopies hurt?
During the procedure itself, your colonoscopy will not hurt. Most patients cannot feel the tube when it is inside of them, and there is no pain during the post-procedure process.
At what age are colonoscopies unnecessary?
While there's no upper age limit for colon cancer screening, most United States medical organizations agree that the benefits of screening decline after age 75 for most people. Additionally, there's little evidence to support continuing screening after age 85.
Do I have to wait a month for a colonoscopy?
You should have your colonoscopy within ten months, but sooner is better. Waiting that long can increase your chance by up to three times of being diagnosed with an advanced stage of cancer.