A colonoscopy is a common medical procedure used to examine the lining of the large intestine for abnormalities, serving as a powerful tool for screening and diagnosis. While the procedure itself is brief, the period immediately following requires attention to ensure a safe and complete recovery. Understanding the expected side effects and knowing how to identify signs of a serious complication is important for all patients. This guide serves as a quick reference for what to monitor in the hours and days after your procedure.
Expected Symptoms During Immediate Recovery
Patients commonly experience residual effects from the sedation used during the procedure, which can linger for several hours. You may feel grogginess, mild dizziness, or fatigue for the rest of the day. These effects are temporary and indicate that the sedative is still clearing from your system.
During the colonoscopy, air is gently introduced into the colon. This often leads to abdominal bloating, mild cramping, and frequent passage of gas in the hours following the procedure. Moving around, such as taking short, gentle walks, can help your body expel the trapped air and relieve this discomfort more quickly.
If a biopsy was taken or a polyp was removed, it is normal to notice a small amount of light rectal spotting or a streak of blood on the toilet paper during your first few bowel movements. This minor bleeding is typically self-limiting and represents the healing of the superficial tissue at the removal site. To aid your recovery, rehydrate with clear liquids like water, broth, and electrolyte drinks to replace fluids lost during the bowel preparation.
When you are ready to eat, start with small portions of light, easily digestible, low-fiber foods, such as plain crackers, toast, scrambled eggs, or soup. Avoid rich, fatty, or high-fiber foods for the first 24 hours, as your digestive system needs time to readjust. Most people can return to their regular diet the day after the procedure.
Critical Warning Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While mild symptoms are expected, certain signs can indicate a serious complication that requires immediate medical evaluation. One concerning symptom is heavy or persistent rectal bleeding, defined as passing more than a few tablespoons of bright red blood or clots. Bleeding that continues past the first day or occurs suddenly days later, particularly after polyp removal, should prompt immediate contact with your physician or an emergency room visit.
Severe, worsening, or unrelenting abdominal pain is another serious warning sign. Pain that is sharp, does not resolve with the passage of gas, or is accompanied by a rigid or hard-feeling abdomen could suggest a bowel perforation. Unlike the mild, migratory discomfort from trapped air, this type of pain is usually localized and intense.
Signs of an infection, such as a fever of 100.4°F or higher, or persistent chills, also warrant immediate medical attention. These symptoms may occur hours or days after the procedure and can signal an infection or a condition known as post-polypectomy syndrome. Persistent vomiting or the inability to keep down any fluids should be reported, as this can lead to dehydration and may indicate a more significant issue.
Resuming Normal Activities and Medications
Due to the lingering effects of sedation, there is a restriction on certain activities for a full 24 hours after the colonoscopy. You must not drive any vehicle, operate heavy machinery, or engage in any activity that requires sharp reflexes or concentration. This restriction also extends to making significant legal or financial decisions, as your judgment may still be impaired.
Patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous physical activity, such as heavy lifting or intense exercise, for at least one day following the procedure. Returning to work or other normal routines is typically safe the day after the colonoscopy, provided the sedatives have fully cleared. It is also important to refrain from consuming any alcohol for the first 24 hours.
Regarding your daily medications, confirm with your physician exactly when to restart them. Specific caution is necessary for blood thinners and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. These medications increase the risk of bleeding, particularly if polyps were removed, so a doctor must provide instructions on when to safely restart them. Acetaminophen is usually safe for managing minor discomfort.