Colonoscopy
If a colorectal polyp is found
Review when symptoms began, how they changed, their effect on daily life, medical conditions and medication before planning the next step.
Before your visit
Review colorectal polyps by its timeline and effect on daily life
For colorectal polyps, the clinic asks when the problem began, how it has changed and how it affects eating, sleep, work or other daily activities. Medical conditions, medication and previous results help determine the appropriate order of consultation, testing and treatment.
Five stages from symptoms to follow-up
- 01
Describe symptoms
Note when they began, frequency, severity, changes and effects on daily life.
- 02
Check symptom severity
Discuss the current symptoms and decide how soon you should be seen.
- 03
Review background
Discuss medical conditions, medication, allergies, previous tests and treatment.
- 04
Consult and test
Use the examination to decide whether a test is needed and how to prepare.
- 05
Plan follow-up
Review treatment response, results, reasons to return and daily precautions.
What to tell the clinic
Approximate dates are fine; explain what is different from your usual condition.
- When symptoms began, frequency, severity and changes
- Relationship to food, sleep, bowel movements or activity
- Medical conditions, surgery, previous tests and allergies
- Medication and non-prescription products tried for this problem
When you are unsure when to visit
If symptoms become noticeably worse or you are unsure whether to visit, call during clinic hours. A member of the clinic team will ask what has changed and explain the next step.
- Symptoms have become noticeably worse in a short time
- Bleeding or vomiting continues and you cannot eat or drink normally
- You notice a concerning change after an examination
- You are unsure which clinic service to use
What is a colorectal polyp?
A colorectal polyp is a raised area of the lining of the colon. Polyps do not all have the same characteristics, so the endoscopic appearance and other findings are reviewed before the next step is decided.
How we decide the response
If the doctor determines that a polyp can be managed appropriately at the clinic after considering its size, number, shape, location, medicines and the patient’s general condition, removal may be performed during the examination. When clinic-based treatment is not appropriate, we arrange referral to a collaborating medical institution.
Guidance after a procedure
Instructions about food, exercise, alcohol, travel and whom to contact are tailored to the procedure performed. Follow the written instructions provided on the day and contact the clinic during office hours if you have questions.
Contact
Discuss colonoscopy and colorectal polyp management
The response is decided after reviewing the polyp, medicines and general condition.