Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy Post-Procedure Instructions
• You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the colonoscopy exam, this occurs as you clear the air from your colon. Walking may help relieve any discomfort.
• You may also notice a small amount of blood with your first bowel movement after the exam. Usually this isn't cause for alarm. Consult your doctor if you continue to pass blood or blood clots or if you have persistent abdominal pain or a fever. While unlikely, this may occur immediately or in the first few days after the procedure
• You may slowly resume a normal diet after your procedure beginning with liquids and progress to a diet as tolerated. Avoid spicy or gaseous foods (such as pizza and chili) directly after as they may increase chances for nausea and discomfort. It is important to drink water and hydrate after as well.
• Before you leave the hospital the nurse will give you instructions about what pain medications to take if needed. Over-the-counter pain relief medications (like Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen) are usually sufficient to treat your pain.
• You may begin normal daily activities 24 hours after the procedure as tolerated.
Please call our office at 295-1383 if:
• Your temperature is 101 degrees or higher.
• You have excessive bleeding from the rectum or vomiting blood.
• Severe abdominal pain that does not subside.
• If you are unable to reach our office or its after hours- please go to Emergency Room at the hospital. You can call them at 236-2345. If any emergencies please call 911.
Follow-up
• Our office will contact you once we have the results of your procedure and/or your pathology results (if any specimens/biopsies were taken) and arrange follow up care as needed.
• We will forward the results of the procedure to your family doctor along with a letter of recommendation for follow up care.
• If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact us.
Bermuda Surgery Team
Phone: 295-1383
Email: reception@surgery.bm