How common are complications after colonoscopy?

Complications during colonoscopy The overall incidence of complications at the time of colonoscopy was 12.9/1000 exams (95\%CI 11.5-14.5), most commonly respiratory depression (incidence 7.5/1000 exams, 95\%CI 6.4-8.7).

What damage can a colonoscopy cause?

Rarely, complications of a colonoscopy may include: Adverse reaction to the sedative used during the exam. Bleeding from the site where a tissue sample (biopsy) was taken or a polyp or other abnormal tissue was removed. A tear in the colon or rectum wall (perforation)

When should you go to the ER after a colonoscopy?

You should contact your doctor if you feel severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fever, chills or rectal bleeding after the colonoscopy. Perforation and bleeding are two of the major complications associated with colonoscopy. Perforation is a tear through the wall of the bowel that may allow leakage of intestinal fluids.

Can a colonoscopy cause damage?

What does a perforated bowel feel like?

The primary symptoms of gastrointestinal perforation are severe abdominal pain and tenderness. The abdomen may also protrude or feel hard to the touch. If the hole is in a person’s stomach or small intestine, the onset of pain is usually sudden, but if the hole is in the large bowel, the pain may come on gradually.

Can you get sepsis from having a colonoscopy?

Septic shock is not an accepted or normal risk of a colonoscopy. While all procedures have some risk of injury or infection, even just a booster shot, septic shock is never an accepted risk.

Can you get an infection from having a colonoscopy?

Risk of Infection Infection after a colonoscopy is very rare. An infection can be transmitted between patients if the endoscope is not cleaned and sterilized properly between tests.

What are the restrictions after a colonoscopy?

After the procedure Don’t drive or make important decisions or go back to work for the rest of the day. If your doctor removed a polyp during your colonoscopy, you may be advised to eat a special diet temporarily. You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the exam, as you clear the air from your colon.

Can you get sepsis from a colonoscopy?

How long will it take to recover from a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. After the exam, it takes about an hour to begin to recover from the sedative. You’ll need someone to take you home because it can take up to a day for the full effects of the sedative to wear off. Don’t drive or make important decisions or go back to work for the rest of the day.

What are possible complications of colonoscopies?

A colonoscopy poses few risks. Rarely, complications of a colonoscopy may include: Adverse reaction to the sedative used during the exam. Bleeding from the site where a tissue sample (biopsy) was taken or a polyp or other abnormal tissue was removed.

What are the dangers of a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy risks. According to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy,serious complications occur in around 2.8 percent of every 1,000 procedures when done in people of average risk.