If you have chosen to have Entonox to assist with your procedure, you do not need 24 hour care. Usually by the time you are discharged from the Endoscopy Unit, the full effects of Entonox have worn off and you are able to go about your daily routine as normal.
You may experience some of the following mild complications post procedure:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
These symptoms may be relieved by taking ginger or peppermint tea/juice. A hot water bottle may help abdominal discomfort. Move around, as this encourages wind to pass naturally. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid skipping meals. These symptoms may last for up to 8 hours. It is vital to seek medical advice if these symptoms persist or worsen.
More severe complications are:
- Persistent/increasing abdominal pain
- Failure to pass wind
- Temperature above 38 Degrees
- Vomiting blood
These symptoms are rare and will therefore need URGENT medical attention.
Following a colonoscopy, it is usually 2 or 3 days before your normal bowel movemenets commence. This is due to the bowel preparation used prior to your procedure.
If biopsies have been taken (this will be stated in your report), then you should contact your own G.P. or Consultants secretary 2 to 3 weeks post procedure. No histology results go to the Endoscopy Unit. Any other issues please use the contact details below.
Contact Details
Endoscopy Unit- The Royal Oldham Hospital
Telephone: 0161 627 8513 (Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm)
Endoscopy Unit - Rochdale Infirmary
Telephone: 01706 517547 (Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm)
Endoscopy Unit - Fairfield General Hospital
Telephone: 0161 778 2554 (Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm)
Endoscopy Unit - Salford Royal Hospital
Telephone: 0161 206 5959 (Monday - Friday 8am - 8.30pm)
NHS Direct – 111 (24 Hours)
Date of Review: August 2024
Date of Next Review: August 2026
Ref No: PI_SU_1071 (NCA)