After a colonoscopy, it is common to experience some stomach pain or discomfort. A colonoscopy is a common diagnostic procedure used to examine the large intestine, involving a thin, flexible tube with a camera to view the colon’s inner lining. While generally safe and effective for detecting issues like polyps or inflammation, it is common to experience some stomach pain or discomfort afterward.
Common Causes of Discomfort
One of the most frequent reasons for abdominal discomfort after a colonoscopy is the air used during the procedure. To get a clear view of the colon’s lining, air or carbon dioxide is pumped into the large intestine to inflate it. This gas can lead to feelings of bloating, cramping, and gas pains as it moves through or is absorbed by the body. Carbon dioxide is absorbed more quickly than room air, which can sometimes reduce post-procedure discomfort.
The rigorous bowel preparation required before a colonoscopy can also contribute to stomach upset. The strong laxatives used to cleanse the colon can irritate the digestive system, causing residual cramping or tenderness even after the procedure is complete.
During the examination, patients are often moved into various positions to assist the doctor in navigating the colonoscope through the large intestine. These positional changes can sometimes result in muscle soreness or general abdominal tenderness after the procedure. Additionally, the sedation or anesthesia administered for the colonoscopy can sometimes cause mild nausea or contribute to a general sluggishness of the digestive system.
Pain from Procedure Interventions
Beyond the general discomfort from gas and preparation, specific interventions performed during a colonoscopy can lead to localized pain. If tissue samples, known as biopsies, are taken from the colon lining, these sites can become temporarily sore or irritated.
The removal of polyps, a procedure called a polypectomy, can also be a source of tenderness. The area where a polyp was excised might feel sore or mildly inflamed for a short period, similar to a small wound healing inside the colon. The extent of this discomfort can depend on the size and number of polyps removed.
The movement and navigation of the colonoscope through the twists and turns of the colon can stretch or manipulate the intestinal walls. This mechanical action can cause temporary cramping or localized pain as the colon reacts to the scope’s presence.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While mild discomfort is expected after a colonoscopy, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Severe or worsening abdominal pain that does not improve over time could indicate a complication requiring evaluation.
The presence of fever and chills could signal a potential infection, which is a rare but serious complication. Rectal bleeding that is more than a small amount of spotting, such as bright red blood or large clots, should also be reported promptly.
Abdominal swelling or hardness, particularly if accompanied by difficulty passing gas or stool, might suggest a more serious issue like a perforation. Persistent nausea or vomiting, especially if severe or preventing fluid intake, is another concerning symptom. Additionally, dizziness or fainting could indicate internal bleeding or other significant problems.
Managing Discomfort and Recovery
To alleviate common post-colonoscopy discomfort, several strategies can be helpful. Walking and gentle movement are often recommended to help expel any trapped air in the colon, which can relieve bloating and gas pains. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is also important, as the bowel preparation can lead to dehydration.
For the first day or two after the procedure, consuming easily digestible foods, such as clear liquids, soups, and soft, low-fiber options, can help ease the digestive system back to normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help manage mild discomfort. However, it is generally recommended to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen unless cleared by a doctor, especially if polyps were removed, due to a potential increased risk of bleeding.
Resting for the remainder of the day after the procedure is advisable to allow the body to recover from sedation and the procedure itself. Most common discomforts, such as gas and bloating, typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours. Full recovery and return to normal activities usually occur within a day or two, though it may take longer if polyps were removed.