Colonoscopy Health Article

Barium enema

—An x-ray test of the bowel after giving the patient an enema of a white chalky substance that outlines the colon and the rectum.

Biopsy

—Removal of a tissue sample for examination under the microscope to check for cancer cells.

Colonoscope

—A thin, flexible, hollow, lighted tube that in inserted through the rectum into the colon to enable the doctor to view the entire lining of the colon.

Crohn's disease

—A chronic inflammatory disease resulting from the immune system attacking one's own body. The disease generally affects the gastrointestinal tract and may cause the formation of deep ulcers.

Diverticulosis

—A pouchlike section that bulges through the large intestine's muscular walls but is not inflamed. It may cause bleeding, stomach distress and excess gas.

Pathologist

—A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis of disease by studying cells and tissues under a microscope.

Polyps

—An abnormal growth that develops on the inside of a hollow organ such as the colon.

Ulcerative colitis

—A chronic condition where recurrent ulcers are found in the colon. It is manifested clinically by abdominal cramping, and rectal bleeding.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR

• Did you see any abnormalities?
• How soon will you know the results of the biopsy (if one was done)?
• When can I resume any medications that were stopped?
• What future care will I need?