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Possible Complications
Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a colonoscopy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:
- Bleeding
- Perforation or puncture of the bowel
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
- Pre-existing heart or kidney condition
- Treatment with certain medicines, including aspirin and other drugs with anticoagulant or blood-thinning properties
- Prior abdominal surgery or radiation treatments
- Active colitis , diverticulitis , or other acute bowel disease
- Previous treatment with radiation therapy
Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the procedure.
Call Your Doctor
After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:
- Bleeding from your rectum—Notify your doctor if you pass a teaspoonful of blood or more.
- Black, tarry stools
- Severe abdominal pain
- Hard, swollen abdomen
- Signs of infection, including fever or chills
- Inability to pass gas or stool
- Coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe nausea or vomiting
In case of an emergency, CALL 911.
I had a colonoscopy approximately 4 weeks ago and was told that everything looked good. Now I continue to have cramps, frequent need to defecate, often with painful, excessive, explosive gas followed by small, formed moist stool. I also have frequent headaches which is very unusual for me. I am 82 years old. Any suggestions will be appreciated.