When undergoing a medical procedure or meeting with a new doctor for the first time, it’s natural for you to have questions and concerns. The Gastroenterology Institute of Southern California has compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions to help ease any anxiety you may be feeling about your upcoming appointment. If you don’t find the information you are seeking below, please feel free to contact us with any questions. You can also schedule a consultation with Dr. Berookim by calling (310) 271-1122.

Frequently Asked Questions About Digestive Health

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a simple, minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera is placed into the large bowel to visualize and treat a number of problems that may occur in this area.

What is the difference between a traditional colonoscopy and Third Eye Colonoscopy?

Third Eye Colonoscopy allows the physician a backward view of the colon in addition to the frontal perspective afforded by a traditional colonoscopy. This “third eye” increases polyp detection by 23 percent compared to a traditional colonoscopy.

Why should I have a colonoscopy to screen for cancer?

Both a diagnostic and a preventative procedure, a colonoscopy allows Dr. Berookim to diagnose various bowel issues and diseases, including colon cancer, and also to remove pre-cancerous polyps before colon cancer can develop. Because the patient is sedated, the procedure causes little to no discomfort and is usually covered by insurance.

Why should I get a colonoscopy if I feel fine?

Too often when Dr. Berookim is performing a colonoscopy, he finds patients with polyps who are completely asymptomatic and are actually in the early stages of cancer. So it’s extremely important to get screened.  

Should men get a colonoscopy earlier than women?

Sex has absolutely no relevance in the timing of a screening. Both men and women starting at age 50, and African Americans starting at age 45, should have their first colonoscopy, unless they have a family history or other concerns. If you have a family history of colon cancer, you should be screened 10 years prior to the age at which the family member was diagnosed with colon cancer.

Is a colonoscopy painful?

No, a colonoscopy is not painful. With new advancements in medicine, Dr. Berookim is able to use IV Sedation to keep patients completely comfortable. Dr. Berookim uses anesthesiologists 99% of the time using propofol, which allows patients to rest comfortably and allows the procedure to run smoother and safer.  

Will there be any pain after the colonoscopy?

After the completion of your procedure, you may experience some bloating and a little bit of abdominal discomfort, which usually does not last more than a few hours. After going to the bathroom and passing the gas, that will resolve. The reason you’re bloated, is that during the procedure Dr. Berookim places air in the colon to expand it so he can accurately see what’s going on in the bowel. However, prior to the procedure being terminated, he extracts most of the air, but there is some residual air that may cause some of your symptoms.

How long will the procedure last?

Usually if it’s just a screening, colonoscopies can be as quick as 15-20 minutes. However, in those cases where patients have multiple polyps, which are abnormal growths, or a pathology is noted, it may take a little bit longer because we either have to take biopsies or remove those polyps. 

What is the recovery process like after a colonoscopy?

The colonoscopy is a safe, minimally invasive outpatient procedure that takes about 45 minutes. You are able to leave the facility once your sedation has worn off with a ride, and can return to a normal diet the same evening.

What do I need to do for my colonoscopy?

The day before your colonoscopy you’ll be placed on a clear liquid diet and also drink a colon cleanse the night before. In the morning, about 5 hours prior to your colonoscopy, you will finish the second part of your cleanse preparation. For more information about specific bowel preparation procedures, read through our patient forms or contact Dr. Berookim. 

Why do I have to prepare the night before?

Following instructions about diet and bowel prep can have a tremendous impact on your colonoscopy success rates. It’s extremely important for patients to take the adequate medication and to clean their bowels completely to allow Dr. Berookim to visualize the inside lining of the colon so polyps and other abnormalities are not missed.

Why do I need someone to drive me home after a colonoscopy?

During the procedure, you’ll be receiving IV Sedation to make you feel extremely comfortable. After the procedure, even though you’re mentally clear and you’re able to leave the surgery center on your own, the medication is still in your system and therefore it’s very important to find the family or friend that can drive you home.

Is the anesthesia safe?

Yes. During your colonoscopy with Dr. Berookim, an anesthesiologist will be in the room monitoring your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation throughout the procedure.

Where is the colonoscopy performed?

Colonoscopies are generally performed at an out patient surgery center. Because you will be receiving IV Sedation during your procedure, it’s very important to have a controlled environment and the right tools and monitoring systems to make sure your procedure is performed safely. For his healthy patients, Dr. Berookim performs his procedures at La Peer Surgery Center. However, if patients have health conditions that need to be addressed, these will be performed at Cedars Sinai Medical Center or a hospital setting.

My husband is uncomfortable with the idea of a colonoscopy. What should I do?

There have been circumstances where Dr. Berookim has had male patients being reluctant to have their colonoscopy and he can see where they’re coming from. However, after educating them and explaining to them the importance of the procedure, the fact that it’s really a minimally invasive procedure, the fact that there are sedatives so they don’t experience any pain at all, alleviates their concerns and the majority of them realize their fears were nothing to worry about.  

Is it normal to feel anxious before a colonoscopy?

It’s normal to be anxious prior to your first colonoscopy because you’re not really sure what to expect from the procedure. However, majority of the time after Dr. Berookim has completed the procedure with the use of IV Sedation his patients have been so comfortable when they are done with the procedure, the majority of them ask him when they are going to get started and they’re shocked to know the procedure is already done with. And a lot of the times after the procedure, patients think, “Wow this procedure was no big deal, I can’t believe I was worried for nothing.”

How many people suffer from colon cancer?

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of death in the US among men and women. Each year, over 150,000 new cases of colon cancer are found, and 60,000 patients die from this disease. It’s important to remember colon cancer is most treatable when detected in its early stages and that a colonoscopy can not only diagnose but also help prevent colon cancer from developing.

What is a polyp?

Though colon polyps are abnormal growths that occur in the lining of the colon, they usually start small in size, maybe the size of an ant and over many years can grow and eventually become the size of a pea. Polyps can in many shapes and forms. Sometimes they’re shaped like a mushroom, other times it can be shaped like a cauliflower, but with a procedure like the colonoscopy, Dr. Berookim can find these polyps and remove them. 

Are all polyps cancerous?

Generally, the larger the polyp the higher the risk of cancer. Regardless, all polyps that are removed during the procedure are sent to pathology to determine exactly what type it is. Usually, there are two types of polyps. First, there is what is called a hyperplastic or a benign polyp which means it’s not cancerous and there is no increased risk of cancer. The second type of polyp are called Adenomatous polyps, which have an increased risk of developing in other places of the bowel and have a malignant or cancerous potential. Therefore, when Dr. Berookim does find these types of polyps, patients need to be reevaluated sooner.

What is an EGD or upper endoscopy?

EGD is a safe, elective, noninvasive procedure used to visualize the upper GI tract that includes the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, or first part of the small bowel. During the procedure, Dr. Berookim can diagnose your unique issue and determine the best method of treating your condition.  

What is constipation?

Constipation describes a condition in which you have fewer than three bowel movements a week.

How can I prevent constipation?

Drinking plenty of water while eating a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help prevent constipation. Some foods that promote healthy digestion include bran, whole grains, and beans. Exercising regularly also helps by pumping blood to the intestines and keeping them functioning properly. If eating a healthy diet and exercising are not resolving your constipation, it’s important to visit a board-certified GI doctor to prevent more serious side effects associated with constipation.

Why is it important to see a GI doctor if I have heartburn? 

If left untreated, recurring acid reflux, can cause scarring to the esophagus that may lead to difficulty swallowing. Barrett’s esophagus may also develop, which can be a precursor to esophageal cancer. Treating heartburn early is the best way to protect the health of your esophagus long term.  

What is SIBO?

SIBO is short for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, which is an excess of bacteria located in your small bowel. For many patients, SIBO can lead to bloating and other unpleasant GI symptoms. Fortunately, Dr. Berookim specializes in treating small bowel issues and getting patients back to enjoying life.

Contact Dr. Berookim

If you are experiencing troubling GI symptoms, or if you need to schedule a preventative procedure like a colonoscopy, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Peyton Berookim for a consultation. Seeing a gastroenterologist is the best way to protect the long-term health of your digestive system.