Our Services / Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows your gastroenterologist to examine the lining of your large intestine to diagnose or screen for gastrointestinal diseases. The leading gastroenterology specialists at Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, with 13 locations throughout Charlotte, Belmont, Concord, Davidson, Matthews, Monroe, University, Huntersville , and Pineville, North Carolina, offer colonoscopy procedures at their endoscopy centers. Call the office nearest you or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about colonoscopies. 

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that examines your large intestine. During the procedure, your gastroenterologist examines the lining of your rectum and colon using a thin, narrow, flexible tube with a light and camera known as a colonoscope. 

Why would I need a colonoscopy?

Your doctor at Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, explains why you need a colonoscopy at your initial consultation. They may recommend the diagnostic procedure to find the underlying cause of your abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, or rectal bleeding. 

The test may help diagnose conditions such as:

• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s disease
• Diverticular disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Colon cancer

The colonoscopy is also the gold standard test for colon cancer screening. Every year about 150,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer, which results in 50,000 deaths. Increased screenings for colon cancer may save at least 30,000 lives each year. 

What preparation is required for a colonoscopy?

Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, gives you specific instructions on the steps you need to take to prepare for your colonoscopy. To get accurate results, your colon needs to be clean and free of stool and debris.

Preparation for your colonoscopy includes dietary restrictions and the consumption of a bowel-cleansing solution.

What can I expect during a colonoscopy?

Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, performs your colonoscopy at one of their endoscopy centers. During the exam, you lie on your left side. Your doctor gives you medication through an intravenous (IV) line in your hand or arm, so you are sedated.

Your doctor inserts the colonoscope into your rectum and advances it slowly throughout your colon, looking for abnormal tissue and polyps. 

The procedure takes 20-30 minutes. However, you should plan on a two-hour appointment at the endoscopy center for preparation and recovery.

What happens after a colonoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist at Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, sends you to the recovery area following your colonoscopy. You must arrange to have someone drive you home.

You may feel bloated and gassy immediately following the procedure, but these side effects should disappear quickly by passing gas. Your doctor talks to you or your family about the preliminary findings and sends a complete report to your referring provider. 

To find out more about colonoscopies at Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, call the office nearest you, or schedule an appointment online today.