Experiencing numbness after a colonoscopy?
Hello, doctor.
I had a painless colonoscopy today at noon, and the doctor said I had no polyps.
I was told I could eat normally after returning home.
However, when I got home around one o'clock, I experienced numbness in my chin, the arm where I received the injection, and my chest.
By two o'clock in the afternoon, I even felt numbness in the anal area, but that has since improved.
Now, at five o'clock in the afternoon, I still have a tingling sensation in my chin, hand, and left thigh.
I couldn't find any information online about these side effects.
What could be causing this?
A Zhi, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/09
Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello A-Zhi: It is recommended to consult your attending physician for a clearer evaluation.
Director Cai Jin-ji of the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at Nantou Hospital.
Reply Date: 2023/03/09
More Info
Post-colonoscopy numbness, while not a commonly reported side effect, can occur in some patients for various reasons. It is important to understand that colonoscopy is an invasive procedure that involves sedation and manipulation of the colon, which can lead to temporary sensations or discomfort in different parts of the body.
Firstly, the numbness you are experiencing in your jaw, arm, chest, and even the anal area could be attributed to several factors related to the procedure. The sedation used during the colonoscopy can sometimes lead to residual effects, including tingling or numbness, particularly if the sedation was administered via an intravenous line. The medications used, such as benzodiazepines or opioids, can affect the nervous system and may cause temporary sensations of numbness or tingling as they wear off.
Additionally, the positioning during the procedure could also contribute to these sensations. Patients are often placed in a position that may compress certain nerves or blood vessels, leading to temporary numbness or tingling in the extremities. For example, if your arm was positioned awkwardly during the procedure, it could lead to transient nerve compression, resulting in the numbness you felt in your arm and possibly radiating to other areas.
The numbness in the anal area could be related to the manipulation of the colon during the procedure. The colon is richly innervated, and any stimulation or pressure applied during the colonoscopy can lead to temporary changes in sensation. This is usually not a cause for concern and should resolve on its own as the body recovers from the procedure.
It is also worth noting that anxiety or stress related to the procedure can manifest physically, leading to sensations of numbness or tingling. If you were feeling anxious about the colonoscopy, this could have contributed to the sensations you experienced afterward.
While these sensations can be alarming, they are generally temporary and should resolve within a few hours to a day. However, if the numbness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as severe pain, weakness, or changes in bowel habits, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious complication, although such occurrences are rare.
In conclusion, while post-colonoscopy numbness is not a widely recognized side effect, it can occur due to sedation effects, positioning during the procedure, or even anxiety. It is usually temporary and self-limiting. However, if you have any ongoing concerns or if the symptoms do not resolve, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and reassurance. Always prioritize communication with your medical team regarding any unusual symptoms following a procedure, as they can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.
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