- After the colonoscopy, you will spend around 30 minutes in the recovery area until the sedative medication wears off. Your physician will discuss the exam results and follow-up plans with you before you are discharged, and you will be handed a discharge instruction sheet.
- It takes about an hour to begin to recover from the sedative.
- For a few hours following the exam, you may feel bloated or pass gas as your colon clears the air. Walking may help relieve any discomfort.
- After the test, you may see a small quantity of blood in your first bowel movement. Usually this isn't cause for alarm.
- If you continue to pass blood or blood clots, or if you have chronic abdominal pain or a temperature of 100 F (37.8 C) or higher, see your doctor.
- A companion must be available to accompany you home from the procedure, since the sedation will impair your reflexes and judgment. For the remainder of the day you should not drive a car, operate machinery, or make important decisions.
Colonoscopies. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/locations/mankato/services-and-treatments/gastroenterology-and-hepatology/colonoscopies