A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure used to assess the health of your colon. A colonoscope with a light and small camera on the end is inserted into the rectum, allowing your GI doctor to view the inside of your colon or large intestine. Our colonoscopy doctors are board certified to assist with your gastrointestinal pains.
Why Do I Need A Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is most often used to detect early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum. It allows our Charleston GI physicians to look inside the entire large intestine for things such as:
Inflamed tissue
Abnormal growths (polyps)
Open sores
Ulcers
Bleeding
Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death for American men and women, but increased awareness and screening have caused a decline in the death rate. According to the American Cancer Center, when colorectal cancer is found early (before spreading), the five-year relative survival rate is around 90%.
This is further proof that screenings save lives. If you are over 45 years old or have a family history of colon cancer, call today to schedule your colonoscopy procedure!
Your Charleston GI colonoscopy can also be beneficial in diagnosing unexplained symptoms, including:
Changes in bowel habits
Abdominal pain
Rectal bleeding
Weight loss
What a Colonoscopy Can Help Find Early
Precancerous polyps
Small growths in the colon that can turn into cancer if they aren’t removed.
Colon and rectal cancer
Can find cancer early—sometimes before you feel any symptoms—when treatment is most effective.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Helps doctors diagnose and keep track of conditions that cause ongoing inflammation in the colon.
Causes of rectal or lower digestive bleeding
Helps find where bleeding is coming from, such as polyps, irritation, tumors, or blood vessel problems.
Diverticular disease
Can detect small pouches in the colon and check the colon after flare-ups or infections.
Unexplained bowel changes
Helps identify reasons for ongoing diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, or changes in stool.
Follow-up after polyps or cancer
Used to regularly check for new growths so problems can be caught early.
Abnormal tissue (biopsy)
Allows doctors to take small samples to confirm or rule out cancer, inflammation, or other conditions.
An empty stomach allows for the best examination, so specific instructions will be provided to you prior to your visit. Our colonoscopy doctors will also prescribe a bowel prep kit, which is very important in the success of the procedure.
Please be sure to follow the instructions provided! These helpful hints may be included to help you prep for your colonoscopy:
Stick to a clear liquid diet the day before your procedure.
Drink the cleansing solution. (Note: Some physicians may recommend different prep solutions.)
Stay hydrated during bowel prep with clear liquids, like water, apple or white grape juice, black coffee, tea, clear broths, etc.
Do not eat or drink ANYTHING the morning of your colonoscopy.
Notify your physician if you:
Have a history of bleeding disorders
Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
Are taking any medications (both prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, etc)
What to Expect at Your Colonoscopy
Arrival & Check-In
From arrival to discharge, the full visit usually takes 2–2.5 hours.
Plan to take the day off work, as sedatives can take the rest of the day to fully wear off.
You’ll need a driver to take you home.
Before the Procedure
You’ll receive sedation medication to help you stay relaxed and comfortable.
This medicine is given just before the procedure begins.
During the Colonoscopy
The procedure itself takes about 30–60 minutes.
Most people don’t remember the procedure afterward.
If the doctor sees anything unusual (like a polyp or inflamed tissue), it can be removed during the exam.
Any removed tissue is sent to a lab for testing.
Recovery
After the procedure, you’ll be moved to a recovery area.
You’ll rest there until you’re fully awake.
A nurse will help you get dressed.
Aftercare & Results
The doctor will talk with you and your driver about how the procedure went.
A report of your colonoscopy will be sent to your primary care physician.
You’ll be able to go home the same day, but should rest for the remainder of the day.
*Note: Since you will be under sedation during the procedure, you will need someone to drive you home.
After Your Colonoscopy Procedure
Right After the Procedure
You may feel cramping or gas, which is normal.
These symptoms usually go away within about an hour.
Follow Care Instructions
Carefully follow all post-procedure instructions given to you.
These instructions help ensure a smooth and safe recovery.
Rest & Recovery
Even though the appointment lasts around two hours, the medication can affect you for the rest of the day.
Plan to take the day off work and rest at home.
Going Home
You’ll be able to go home the same day.
Avoid driving, working, or making important decisions until the medication has fully worn off.
Yes. Colon cancer is becoming more common in younger adults in the United States, even as cases drop in older adults due to regular screening.
About 10% of colorectal cancer cases now occur in people under 50.
Deaths in this age group are rising by roughly 1% each year.
The good news: Early detection saves lives. Colonoscopies are the gold standard for diagnosing colorectal cancer, and finding cancer early makes it much easier to treat.
Charleston GI offers colonoscopy procedures to support your GI health—no referral is required to meet our team.
What shouldn't I do right after my colonoscopy?
Always follow your doctor’s guidance, but common recommendations from Hartford Healthcare include:
Avoid driving for 24 hours (sedation makes it unsafe).
Do not operate machinery or make critical decisions for 24 hours.
Skip alcohol for 24 hours.
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a few days.
Refrain from taking sleeping pills or sedatives.
Always communicate openly with your doctor for personalized recovery advice.
Can I eat right after my colonoscopy?
Yes, you can eat after your procedure. Start with light, easily digestible foods if you feel bloated. According to GoodRx, you may want to avoid for 24 hours:
Greasy or fried foods
Raw fruits and vegetables
Nuts and seeds
Whole grains
Better options: Crackers, white bread, soft fish, cooked vegetables, applesauce. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol for 24 hours. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
Is a colonoscopy painful?
No. Sedation ensures you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Charleston GI performs colonoscopies in specialized endoscopy centers designed for maximum comfort.
What signs indicate I need a colonoscopy?
Be alert for changes in bowel habits, such as:
Blood in your stool
Abdominal pain
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fatigue
Persistent diarrhea or constipation
Narrow stools
Iron deficiency anemia
Contact a GI specialist promptly if symptoms persist or worsen.
How long does a colonoscopy take?
The colonoscopy itself typically lasts between 30 minutes and one hour. Plan for a total of 1.5 to 2 hours, including preparation time. Please arrive one hour before your scheduled procedure time.
How long does recovery take after a colonoscopy?
Most individuals feel back to normal within 24 hours. You might experience gas, bloating, or mild bleeding, especially if polyps were removed. Contact your doctor if you have any concerns regarding your recovery.
What are the possible complications of a colonoscopy?
Discuss any concerns with your gastroenterologist.
Will my insurance cover my colonoscopy?
Some insurance plans do cover screening colonoscopies. Contact your insurance provider directly to confirm your specific coverage details. Our billing office can answer questions, but we will require your insurance information. Call our billing office with any insurance-related questions.
At Charleston GI, you can reach us 5 days a week, only here to help!
Why is a colonoscopy so important?
According to UNC Health, 5 to 6 percent of people will develop colon cancer in their lifetimes.
To maintain good digestive health, a colonoscopy allows doctors to visually inspect your colon for potential issues like polyps or cancer. During the procedure, doctors can remove polyps, which is crucial for preventing colon cancer. Because colon cancer affects a significant portion of the population, regular screening is essential. Your doctor can take biopsies of tissue for further laboratory analysis. Please speak with your gastroenterologist directly when it comes to your colon health, family history and GI problems.
At Charleston GI, we offer 4 locations and 3 endoscopy centers to offer you quality health services for your gastrointestinal issues. No referral needed!
Charleston GI’s open-access colonoscopy programs allow patients to easily schedule an appointment – no referral needed. By minimizing the hassle and cost, our goal at Charleston GI is to make colon cancer prevention a priority!
Get in touch with our digestive tract specialists and colonoscopy physicians today to learn more or to schedule your appointment! No referral needed!
Disclaimer: This website provides general health information only and is not medical advice. No physician-patient relationship is created and results are not guaranteed. HIPAA privacy standards apply. Do not submit sensitive medical information. For urgent concerns, contact your physician or seek emergency care.
