Have you put off getting a colonoscopy because you were nervous about the procedure? Many people are apprehensive about getting a colonoscopy, but there is little need to worry. A colonoscopy is an extremely common and safe medical procedure. It could even save your life.

Why is a colonoscopy important?

A colonoscopy is a commonly performed screening test that can detect colorectal cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Many other forms of cancer are not detectable until they are in later stages when they are much harder to treat.

A colonoscopy also allows your doctor to find and remove precancerous polyps called adenomas, or abnormal growths, in the large intestine (colon) and rectum before they become cancerous. This has been shown to prevent cancer from forming in the future.

Who needs a colonoscopy?

The American Cancer Society recommends that people with an average risk for developing colon cancer get their first colonoscopy at age 45 and then every 10 years after that.

You might need a colonoscopy sooner or more often if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps, a hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome, or a personal history of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps, radiation therapy to the abdominal or pelvic area, or inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

Your physician also might recommend a colonoscopy if you have gastrointestinal symptoms like chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain or rectal bleeding.

What to expect before a colonoscopy

The colon and rectum must be clear and empty before the colonoscopy. Your physician might ask you to drink a laxative solution the day before the procedure, causing you to go to the bathroom frequently until your stool is clear and watery.

You may also be asked to follow a special diet (such as clear liquids only) or not eat or drink after a certain time the night before the procedure.

Remind your doctor about any prescription medications you take at least a week before your exam, especially medications known as "blood thinners" or anticoagulants. They may ask you to temporarily stop taking the medication or adjust your dosage, as some medicines can affect the procedure.

What to expect during a colonoscopy

Just before the procedure, you will first be given a sedative to help you relax and drift off to sleep. Then, your doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube with a light and small camera attached to the end into the rectum and colon. The camera allows your physician to see the full length of your colon and rectum to check for suspicious areas, such as precancerous polyps. In addition, abnormal areas can be sampled and abnormal growths such as polyps can be removed in a procedure known as polypectomy.

Colonoscopy usually takes about 30 minutes, though it might take longer if your doctor finds and removes any polyps.

What to expect after a colonoscopy

You will need someone to drive you home after a colonoscopy because the sedative will make you drowsy. Some people temporarily experience mild gas, bloating or cramping afterward. If you had a polyp removed or a biopsy performed, you might have a small amount of blood in your stool for the next day or two.

While complications from colonoscopies are quite rare, you should contact your doctor if you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting or nausea.

The bottom line: A colonoscopy is a safe procedure that can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer. It can also detect colorectal cancer when the disease is most treatable. While there are some uncomfortable aspects of the procedure, having a colonoscopy gives you the best chance in preventing colon cancer and living a long, healthy life.

To find a physician, visit www.pardeehospital.org.

Dr. Noyes is a board-certified general, thoracic and vascular surgeon at Pardee Surgical Associates.