Which are normal expected findings after a colonoscopy?

Which are normal expected findings after a colonoscopy?

• A. Cramping, gas, and watery stools
• B. Fever and severe abdominal pain
• C. Vomiting and dehydration requiring hospitalization
• D. Bright red blood in stool lasting more than 24 hours

Answer: (A)

After a colonoscopy, mild cramping from the air that was used to inflate the colon is common, along with some gas and possibly loose or watery stools as the intestines recover. These sensations are usually short-lived and not worrisome if they’re mild and pass quickly. Fever with severe abdominal pain, vomiting with dehydration requiring hospitalization, or bright red bleeding in the stool lasting more than a day are not typical and could indicate complications such as perforation, infection, or active bleeding. If those symptoms occur, they should be evaluated promptly.

After a colonoscopy, mild cramping from the air that was used to inflate the colon is common, along with some gas and possibly loose or watery stools as the intestines recover. These sensations are usually short-lived and not worrisome if they’re mild and pass quickly.

Fever with severe abdominal pain, vomiting with dehydration requiring hospitalization, or bright red bleeding in the stool lasting more than a day are not typical and could indicate complications such as perforation, infection, or active bleeding. If those symptoms occur, they should be evaluated promptly.