Introduction
Colonoscopy is a frequently used instrument in the diagnosis of diseases of the small intestine, colon and rectum. In a colonoscopy, a tube is inserted into the anus and can be advanced through the colon into the small intestine according to the course of the intestinal loops. The tube contains a camera with light and other instruments for minimally invasive procedures, such as wiry loops, for removing growths or for taking tissue samples (biopsy). Colonoscopy is usually performed under short-term anaesthesia. Since it is an invasive procedure, it is normal that there is limited pain afterwards.
Is abdominal pain normal after a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy has long been a common instrument in the diagnosis of intestinal diseases. Due to further development of the technique and trained doctors, complications are very rare. If complaints occur after the examination, they are usually not dangerous.
It is then a simple irritation of the intestine due to mechanical stress or air entering the intestine. Such a reaction to the examination is normal and requires no medical intervention. If any complaints occur, they can be reported to the examiner, but do not necessarily have to be observed by him.
A self-check is sufficient. However, it is not normal if the symptoms persist for a long time, for example for several days, or if they suddenly become worse. This may be due to damage to the intestine, which makes intervention necessary. Especially in acute pain conditions, the examiner or at least another doctor should be contacted and informed.
Causes of pain after a colonoscopy
In preparation for this diagnostic examination, the patient’s bowel must be cleaned the day before. For this purpose, a lot of fluid must be drunk on the one hand and on the other hand the emptying of the intestine must be promoted with medication. This process can disturb the intestinal flora, which consists of millions of bacteria.
Humans need bacteria for a functioning digestion, because the body does not have all the digestive enzymes to decompose all food. Digestive disorders can lead to stomach aches. Serious complications rarely occur during a colonoscopy.
Apart from irritation of the intestine, which can be caused by the mechanical action of the tube and the air introduced, the most likely cause of complications during therapeutic procedures is injury. For example, if an intestinal polyp is removed, the wall of the intestine may be injured. In addition to painful inflammation, the worst that can happen in the later course of the procedure is a perforation of the intestinal wall.
Even if a perforation is only very rarely observed after a colonoscopy, it is an emergency situation that requires immediate action. In addition to extremely severe abdominal pain, perforations can also lead to blood poisoning (sepsis), which can lead to a life-threatening state of shock for the patient. If a perforation of the intestinal wall is suspected, an inpatient admission is always mandatory.
