Post-Colonoscopy Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Q: Post-Colonoscopy Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Dear Mr./Ms. <br>A Da,<br>Hello： Your symptoms are likely normal, as they can occur due to the stimulation from the colonoscopy procedure. <br>There should be no damage to the colon, and you should feel more normal in about a week. <br>However, if you experience severe abdominal

After the colonoscopy, I feel a bit strange in my abdomen?

Hello, doctor.
I had a colonoscopy last Friday.
During the procedure, my intestines frequently contracted, which required me to change positions often, and the examination lasted over 30 minutes.
Since I wasn't under anesthesia, it was quite painful.
The doctor advised me to relax, but it was really difficult.
I have a few questions...
After the procedure, I felt a bit dizzy and had abdominal discomfort that lasted for 2 to 3 days.
Sometimes the discomfort is on the left side, sometimes on the right side (which happens to be at the bends of the colon), but it alleviates significantly after passing gas.
My stool has been much thinner than usual, but there is no black stool or bleeding.
Is this considered normal? (The doctor looked at the results after the procedure and said everything seemed quite normal, with no abnormalities.) Due to the frequent contractions of my intestines during the examination and the time spent navigating the bends, I am concerned about potential damage to the intestines.
I would like to ask if there are any symptoms that would require an urgent follow-up after a colonoscopy? Does intestinal perforation cause bleeding?

a da, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/06/10

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Dear Mr./Ms.
A Da,
Hello: Your symptoms are likely normal, as they can occur due to the stimulation from the colonoscopy procedure.
There should be no damage to the colon, and you should feel more normal in about a week.
However, if you experience severe abdominal pain or notice blood in your stool, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Thank you for your inquiry.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Yang Zhi-Chao
Changhua Hospital

Reply Date: 2013/06/10

More Info

After undergoing a colonoscopy, it's not uncommon to experience some discomfort, especially if the procedure was prolonged or if sedation was not used. The symptoms you're describing, such as abdominal discomfort, changes in bowel habits, and feelings of dizziness, can occur post-procedure and may not necessarily indicate a serious issue. However, it's essential to understand when to seek medical attention.

Understanding Post-Colonoscopy Symptoms
1. Normal Discomfort: After a colonoscopy, patients may experience bloating, cramping, or discomfort due to the air introduced into the colon during the procedure. This can lead to temporary changes in bowel habits, such as thinner stools, which you mentioned. These symptoms are generally mild and should resolve within a few days.

2. Dizziness and Fatigue: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy can be a result of several factors, including anxiety, dehydration, or the effects of any medications used during the procedure. If this persists or worsens, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

3. Bowel Movements: It's not unusual for bowel movements to be different after a colonoscopy. The presence of thinner stools can be attributed to the manipulation of the colon during the procedure. However, if you notice significant changes, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, it may warrant further investigation.

When to Seek Medical Attention
While some discomfort is expected, certain symptoms should prompt you to seek medical attention:
- Severe Abdominal Pain: If you experience intense or worsening abdominal pain, especially if it is localized and does not improve with passing gas or having a bowel movement, this could indicate a complication.

- Fever: A fever following a colonoscopy can be a sign of infection or other complications and should be evaluated promptly.

- Persistent Dizziness: If feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness persist or worsen, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice.

- Signs of Bleeding: While you mentioned no black stools or visible blood, if you notice any rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, this is a concerning sign and should be addressed immediately.

- Signs of Perforation: Although rare, a perforation (or tear) in the colon can occur during a colonoscopy. Symptoms of perforation may include severe abdominal pain, fever, and signs of shock (such as rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, or confusion). If you suspect this, it is a medical emergency.

Conclusion
In summary, while some discomfort and changes in bowel habits can be normal after a colonoscopy, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience severe pain, persistent dizziness, fever, or any signs of bleeding, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. Regular follow-up with your physician is also essential to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed appropriately.

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