Advice following a flexible sigmoidoscopy

Please note, this page is printable by selecting the normal print options on your computer.

You may feel a little uncomfortable with the air or carbon dioxide we have passed into your bowel. This should pass quite easily during the next few hours. You may eat and drink and return to your normal activities.

You may experience a little bleeding if you have had biopsies or a polyp taken away; this should not be of concern. Your report indicates if a biopsy or polyp has been taken. However, if you experience pain that is severe and persistent, or you are passing significant amount of blood or clots; you must then seek urgent advice from the Endoscopy Department between 08:00 and 18:00 Monday to Friday (01908 996460) or go to A&E.

If you need to speak to someone outside of these hours you can contact the Gastroenterology Ward (Ward 8) on 01908 996395.

Follow-up information (Nurse to tick box)
• Please continue with your current medication unless you have been advised otherwise.
• Your G.P. will be sent a copy of the Doctors’ report.
• If biopsies were taken, a report will be sent to your GP in 6-8 weeks. Please contact them or the named consultant for results (not the Endoscopy Dept)
• Follow up with GP if required
• A follow-up clinic appointment will be sent to you in the post.
• An appointment for a repeat procedure will be sent to you in the post.
• You will be sent an appointment for a CT/ MRI scan / x-ray (circle relevant option)

If you have any further questions related to your condition, you should contact your GP or referring consultant.

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