What to Do If Your Colonoscopy Results Are Abnormal

Receiving abnormal colonoscopy results can be a daunting experience, as it may indicate the presence of an underlying gastrointestinal condition. While it’s important to remember that an abnormal result does not necessarily mean a serious health problem, it can raise important questions about your digestive health and next steps.

In this article, we’ll discuss what to do if your colonoscopy results are abnormal, the possible causes of abnormal results, and how to navigate the next steps in your healthcare journey.

Understanding Abnormal Colonoscopy Results

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the inner lining of the colon and rectum. During the procedure, the colonoscopy specialist inserts a flexible tube with a camera (a colonoscope) into the rectum to view the colon. Abnormal results from a colonoscopy may indicate the presence of various conditions, including:

• Polyps: Growths on the colon lining that can become cancerous over time if left untreated.
• Colorectal Cancer: An abnormality in the colon that may be indicative of cancerous growth.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis that cause inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Diverticulosis: The presence of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall, which can lead to infection or bleeding.
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Blood in the colon or rectum, which can be a sign of various conditions, including ulcers, polyps, or cancer.

It’s important to note that the majority of colonoscopy findings, including polyps or minor inflammation, are treatable, and early detection often leads to successful management of the condition.

What to Do After Abnormal Results

1. Don’t Panic: While abnormal results can be unsettling, it’s important to stay calm and avoid jumping to conclusions. Many abnormal findings, such as small polyps or mild inflammation, may not be life-threatening and can be managed with appropriate treatment. Your colonoscopy specialist will help guide you through the next steps.

2. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: After receiving abnormal colonoscopy results, your doctor may recommend follow-up tests or additional procedures to confirm the diagnosis or determine the severity of the condition. If polyps were removed during the colonoscopy, the tissue will be sent for biopsy, and your doctor will review the results. A follow-up appointment at the colonoscopy clinic in Singapore may be necessary to discuss the findings and determine the best course of action.

3. Discuss Treatment Options: Depending on the cause of the abnormal results, your gastroenterologist may suggest various treatment options. For example, if polyps are found, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring or removal of the polyps. If colorectal cancer is suspected, additional tests such as a CT scan or biopsy may be necessary to determine the extent of the disease. For inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), treatments like medication or lifestyle changes may be recommended to manage symptoms.

4. Stay Informed: Understanding your condition is key to making informed decisions about your health. Your doctor will provide you with information about your diagnosis, treatment options, and any necessary lifestyle changes. You can also research your condition online or seek support from reputable medical organisations.

5. Follow Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations: In many cases, dietary changes and lifestyle modifications play a significant role in managing gastrointestinal conditions. Your doctor may recommend specific dietary adjustments to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and manage symptoms. For example, if you have IBD or diverticulosis, you may need to avoid certain foods or ensure you consume sufficient fibre.

Conclusion

If your colonoscopy results are abnormal, it’s important to remain calm and work closely with your gastroenterologist to determine the next steps. Many conditions detected during a colonoscopy are treatable, and early detection is key to successful management. Whether your results are related to polyps, colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel disease, your colonoscopy specialist in Singapore will provide guidance on the best treatment options for you.

For more information on managing gastroenterology symptoms and understanding your treatment options, visit GUTCARE today.

Reference(s):

https://www.nuvancehealth.org/health-tips-and-news/what-will-happen-if-my-colonoscopy-is-abnormal