human
My doctor has recommended that I get a colonoscopy. What is a colonoscopy and why is it important?
assistant
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure in which a doctor uses a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope to examine the inside of your large intestine (colon). It’s used to detect any polyps or other abnormalities that may be causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or weight loss. Colonoscopies can also help diagnose inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and colon cancer. The test is usually done while you are sedated, so you will not feel anything during the procedure.