Most of your medications can be continued as usual. However, drugs such as aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, and blood thinners are examples of medications whose use should be discussed with your surgeon prior to the examination. You will be awake during the procedure. Occasionally, the surgeon may give you some light sedation. The procedure is usually well tolerated and rarely causes discomfort.
Air is injected to distend or widen the passage.
This may cause a feeling of pressure, gassiness, bloating, or cramping during the procedure. You will lie on your side while the sigmoidoscope is advanced through the rectum and lower colon. The lining of the intestine is examined carefully. The procedure usually lasts for five to fifteen minutes. Your surgeon will explain the results to you and discuss any findings.