Colonoscopy in Downers Grove, IL

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure that enables a physician to see the inner lining of your rectum and colon. During the procedure, a long, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the anus and through the colon.

Our skilled and experienced gastroenterologists are dedicated to providing top-quality care. We focus on digestive health and offer essential colonoscopies for colon cancer detection and prevention. Our colonoscopy specialists use the latest technology to make the screening accurate and comfortable. Call our clinic at 630-434-9312 to schedule your appointment.

When To Get a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the lining of the large intestine (colon) for any abnormalities or signs of disease. Colonoscopy is a crucial screening tool for the detection and prevention of colon cancer, which is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States. However, colonoscopy may also be done for various other reasons, such as:

• Routine check for colon tumors
• Routine check for colon polyps
• Investigate abdominal pain
• Investigate blood in the stool
• Investigate frequent diarrhea
• Routine check up if you have a family history of colon polyps or colon cancer

It is suggested that all people undergo a routine colonoscopy around age 50 and every ten years thereafter to catch polyps before they turn cancerous.

Preparation for a Colonoscopy

Prior to receiving a colonoscopy, the colon must be completely cleaned. Your physician will give you the following information to prepare for your procedure:

• Stop eating solid foods and drink only clear fluids one to two days before the colonoscopy. Some approved foods and liquids include water, tea, coffee, cleared broths and gelatin.
• The night before the procedure, you will take a prescription laxative tablet or solution. The laxative will be mixed with one gallon of water. Depending on the time of your procedure, you may choose to drink half the solution the night before and half in the morning.
• To completely clear out the colon, an enema 30 to 60 minutes before the test may be necessary.
• To avoid dehydration, drink plenty of fluids while preparing for your procedure.
• Stop drinking clear liquids six to eight hours prior to the procedure.

Recovery from a Colonoscopy

When you are fully awake, you will be released from the hospital or office the procedure was performed at. Depending on the amount of anesthesia that you were given, you might not be able to operate machinery for up to 12 hours. Patients are allowed to eat normal foods and are required to drink a lot of fluids after testing to replace the water that was lost in the colonoscopy preparation process.

Learn More

Why Do I Need To Get A Colonoscopy?

Colon Cancer Prevention

Learn more about Colon Cancer here.