Colonoscopy | Houston Methodist
Source: https://www.houstonmethodist.org/gastroenterology/conditions-treatments/colonoscopy
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:12
Colonoscopy | Houston Methodist
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Underwood Center for Digestive Health
Gastrointestinal Conditions & Treatments
Colonoscopy
Home
Services & Specialties
Underwood Center for Digestive Health
Gastrointestinal Conditions & Treatments
Colonoscopy
Leading Expertise in Colon Care
Leading Expertise in Colon Care
Colonoscopies: The only screening test that can both detect and prevent colon cancer.
Colonoscopies & Colon Care
Highly skilled gastroenterologists at
Houston Methodist Lynda K. and David M. Underwood Center for Digestive Health
perform tens of thousands of colorectal screenings every year.
Learn lifesaving reasons to consider a colonoscopy screening
.
Colonoscopy is the number one tool available to help detect early signs of cancer. It is also the only screening that can prevent cancer. Colonoscopy screenings allow your doctor to locate and remove polyps — small growths inside the colon — that can become cancerous if left untreated.
Specialists at the Underwood Center also conduct colonoscopies to rule out, monitor or confirm other gastrointestinal issues, such as
Crohn’s disease
,
inflammatory bowel disease
or
colitis
.
Call Us to Schedule Your Colonoscopy
713.790.3333
Call Us to Schedule Your Colonoscopy
Find a Digestive Health Specialist Near You
Find a Doctor
Find a Gastroenterology Specialist Near You
Call Us to Schedule Your Colonoscopy
Call Us to Schedule Your Colonoscopy
713.790.3333
Our Approach to Colon Care
Our gastroenterologists, as well as our primary care doctors, take a proactive approach to colon care. We will refer you for a preventive colonoscopy if you are 45 years of age or older and have never had a screening colonoscopy, or if it has been 10 years or more since your last screening.
If you have had an immediate family member diagnosed with colorectal cancer,
we recommend an earlier screening
at age 40, or 10 years before the age your family member was diagnosed — whichever is earlier. Or, if you experience intestinal problems such as abdominal pain, blood in the stool or prolonged diarrhea, you may be referred for an immediate colonoscopy.
You may also be able to schedule a colonoscopy for yourself. Call us at
713.790.3333
to find out if you qualify. Please consult your insurance provider to confirm coverage if you are under the age of 45.
Ranked #7 in the Nation for GI Care
Houston Methodist Hospital is ranked Best in Texas and No. 7 in the nation by
U.S. News & World Report
for Gastroenterology & GI surgery.
U.S. News & World Report
has also named Houston Methodist Hospital one of the nation’s best as a nationally ranked Honor Roll hospital.
Learn More ➝
Colonoscopies for Colon Care at Houston Methodist
There are many steps you can take to support better digestive health, like taking a probiotic and getting plenty of fiber in your diet. But there are some conditions that no amount of lifestyle changes can help you avoid. Colon cancer affects one in 23 men and one in 25 women, making it one of the most common forms of cancer in the world.
Fortunately, colon cancer is, to a certain extent, preventable. And if cancer is discovered in the early stage, it’s often treatable. That’s why our team at Houston Methodist is committed to helping you maintain regular colon care, starting with colonoscopies. Here are three ways our gastroenterologists use colonoscopies to care for the colon:
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Screening colonoscopies are endoscopy procedures recommended for all individuals over the age of 45. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, we recommend an earlier screening at age 40, or 10 years before the age your family member was diagnosed — whichever is earlier.
To perform a colonoscopy, your physician inserts a flexible tube, called a colonoscope, into the rectum and colon. The colonoscope has a light on the end, and the physician guides it through the area, monitoring the inside of the colon through a video monitor. The physician then takes pictures, notes any abnormalities and recommends next steps.
If the colonoscopy is normal, you will be cleared to wait 10 years for the next screening, unless you develop any concerning symptoms or related health issues before then.
Polyp Removal
It is not unusual for your gastroenterologist to find colon polyps during your colonoscopy. These are small growths of tissue inside the colon, and while they’re most often benign, they can become cancerous if left untreated.
If polyps are discovered during your procedure, they will often be removed right then, to prevent them from becoming malignant. Most of the time, polyps are asymptomatic. However, if they go undetected, you may notice some gastrointestinal changes, like constipation, bloating or abdominal pain. Be sure to let your gastroenterologist know you’ve had these symptoms prior to your colonoscopy.
Diagnostic Colonoscopy
Colonoscopies are primarily a cancer screening tool, but they can also be used to rule out or diagnose other conditions. Your physician may recommend a colonoscopy if you are symptomatic and Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease or ulcerative colitis are suspected.
If you experience intestinal problems such as abdominal pain, blood in the stool or prolonged diarrhea, you may be referred for an immediate colonoscopy. If abnormalities or suspicious growths are found, your physician may take tissue samples to perform a biopsy which could confirm colon or rectal cancer.
If you have unusual symptoms and are concerned about your risk of colorectal cancer, you should call
713.790.3333
to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist.
What to Expect From Your Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy Preparation
A few days before your colonoscopy, you’ll begin adjusting your diet to ensure your colon is properly prepared for the procedure. While specific instructions may vary, most patients are asked to follow a low-fiber diet for two to three days, transitioning to a clear liquid diet (water, broth, plain gelatin) 24 hours before the procedure.
The bowel preparation begins the afternoon or the night before your colonoscopy. Your doctor will direct you to take a prescribed oral laxative preparation solution. The laxative causes you to have diarrhea to clean your colon. In some cases when an oral laxative is not possible or effective, an enema may be needed. Emptying the bowels completely allows the doctor to see the inside of the rectum and colon during the procedure. The timing and instructions will depend on the specific preparation prescribed and the time of your procedure.
All details will be clearly outlined in your prescription, including any adjustments to your medications or supplements prior to the procedure. Rest assured, our care team is here to support you every step of the way.
During the Colonoscopy
Colonoscopies are not typically painful. You are sedated during the procedure to help you feel comfortable. You could experience slight pressure or cramping. This outpatient procedure is relatively quick, generally only 20 to 40 minutes.
During the procedure, you will lay on your side. The doctor inserts the colonoscope (long, flexible tube) into the rectum. A small camera placed at the end of the tube allows the doctor to view the entire colon.
If abnormal tissue is found, a small amount of that tissue is removed for analysis (a biopsy). Your doctor will also remove any polyps located during the procedure.
Follow-up After the Procedure
It takes approximately one hour after the procedure for you to wake up and recover from the sedative. You may feel tired and groggy until the following day and will need to arrange for a ride home after the procedure.
You may experience bloating or have a need to pass gas for up to 30 minutes. A light walk can help relieve your discomfort.
It can be normal to experience a small amount of blood with your first bowel movement after the procedure, but side effects are usually minimal.
Call your doctor right away if you pass large blood clots or have severe abdominal pain, dizziness or a fever
, as this could be signs of a perforation of the colon wall.
Your doctor will tell you if any tissue was removed for testing and will follow up with you once the official lab results are available within a couple weeks.
Why Choose Houston Methodist for Your Colonoscopy?
No one looks forward to having a colonoscopy, but the fact remains that they are the number one way to prevent or catch colorectal cancer. If you are over the age of 45 or have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer, routine colonoscopies are a must. Trust the hospital that’s one of the top-ranked in gastroenterology in the nation; trust Houston Methodist. Our experts at the Underwood Center for Digestive Health lead the field in preventing, diagnosing and treating colorectal cancer.
Choose a Doctor at One of Our Locations
FILTERS:
Select All
Gastroenterology
General Surgery
Colon and Rectal Surgery
Accepting New Patients
Clear All Filters
No results were found that matched your search criteria.
Please try removing filters or zooming out on the map.
On Health Blog: Read More About Digestive Health & Colonoscopy
On Health Blog — Lifestyle & Wellness
On Health Blog — Lifestyle & Wellness
More On Health Articles
Frequently Asked Questions About Colonoscopies
Colonoscopy prep typically begins working within a few hours after you start taking it, though the timing can vary slightly depending on the type of preparation your doctor recommends. Most people start to have bowel movements about 1 to 3 hours after taking the first dose. It’s important to follow your prep instructions closely and stay near a restroom once you begin. If you have questions about the process or what to expect, your care team is here to help guide you through each step.
In many cases, colonoscopies are covered by insurance, especially when they’re performed as a preventive screening for colorectal cancer. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover screening colonoscopies for adults starting at age 45, as recommended by national guidelines. If a colonoscopy is done to investigate symptoms or as a follow-up to a previous test, coverage may vary. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand what’s included in your plan. If you have questions, our team can help you navigate your benefits and next steps.
A colonoscopy is not used to detect prostate cancer. While the prostate and colon are located near each other, a colonoscopy is designed to examine the inside of the colon and rectum to screen for colorectal cancer, polyps, and other conditions. Prostate cancer is typically detected through a blood test called a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test and a digital rectal exam (DRE). If you have concerns about your prostate health, your doctor can recommend the appropriate screening tests based on your age, risk factors and personal health history.
Yes, a colonoscopy is generally safe for individuals with heart conditions, but it’s important to take extra precautions. Before the procedure, your doctor will review your medical history, including any heart conditions, medications and recent procedures, to ensure the safest approach. In some cases, adjustments may be made to your prep or sedation plan. If you’re taking blood thinners or other heart medications, your care team will work closely with your cardiologist to coordinate care. At Houston Methodist, your safety and comfort are our top priorities every step of the way.
A colonoscopy is performed by a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the digestive system, although some surgeons may also perform them occasionally. Gastroenterologists are trained to perform this procedure safely and effectively, using it to screen for colorectal cancer, investigate symptoms like abdominal pain or rectal bleeding, and remove polyps if needed. If your primary care provider recommends a colonoscopy, they can help refer you to a trusted specialist. At Houston Methodist, our experienced gastroenterologists are here to guide you through the process with personalized care. You may be able to schedule a colonoscopy for yourself or qualify for a screening colonoscopy without having to see a gastroenterologist first. Call
713.790.3333
to see if you qualify.
Yes, colonoscopy prep may be adjusted for individuals who have had gastric bypass surgery. Because the digestive system is altered during bariatric procedures, your doctor may recommend a modified prep plan to ensure it’s both safe and effective. This might include changes to the type or amount of laxative used, as well as additional hydration strategies. It’s important to let your care team know about your surgical history so they can tailor the prep to your needs.
Colonoscopy prep is generally safe for most people, but certain types of bowel prep, especially phosphate-based solutions, may pose a risk to kidney function, particularly in those with preexisting kidney disease or other health conditions. Your doctor will review your medical history before recommending a prep to help minimize any risks.
In rare cases, colonoscopy prep can lead to changes in electrolyte levels, such as sodium or potassium, which may contribute to an irregular heartbeat, especially in people with underlying heart conditions. This is why it’s important to follow prep instructions carefully and stay well-hydrated throughout the process. If you have a history of heart rhythm issues or are taking medications that affect your heart, let your doctor know in advance.
After a colonoscopy, most patients stay in the recovery area for 30 to 60 minutes. This allows time for the effects of sedation to wear off and for your care team to monitor how you're feeling. You may feel a bit drowsy or bloated, which is normal. Before you leave, your doctor will review your results and provide follow-up instructions. Because of the sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home.
For most colonoscopies, you are given a sedative to help you relax and stay as comfortable as possible.
A colonoscopy is generally not painful, though you may feel some discomfort or pressure. Most patients are given a sedative to help them relax, and many experience little to no discomfort during the procedure. Afterward, some people may feel bloated or have mild cramping, but these sensations usually pass quickly. Your care team will work with you to ensure you're as comfortable as possible before, during and after the procedure.
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Home
...
Underwood Center for Digestive Health
Gastrointestinal Conditions & Treatments
Colonoscopy
Home
Services & Specialties
Underwood Center for Digestive Health
Gastrointestinal Conditions & Treatments
Colonoscopy
Leading Expertise in Colon Care
Leading Expertise in Colon Care
Colonoscopies: The only screening test that can both detect and prevent colon cancer.
Colonoscopies & Colon Care
Highly skilled gastroenterologists at
Houston Methodist Lynda K. and David M. Underwood Center for Digestive Health
perform tens of thousands of colorectal screenings every year.
Learn lifesaving reasons to consider a colonoscopy screening
.
Colonoscopy is the number one tool available to help detect early signs of cancer. It is also the only screening that can prevent cancer. Colonoscopy screenings allow your doctor to locate and remove polyps — small growths inside the colon — that can become cancerous if left untreated.
Specialists at the Underwood Center also conduct colonoscopies to rule out, monitor or confirm other gastrointestinal issues, such as
Crohn’s disease
,
inflammatory bowel disease
or
colitis
.
Call Us to Schedule Your Colonoscopy
713.790.3333
Call Us to Schedule Your Colonoscopy
Find a Digestive Health Specialist Near You
Find a Doctor
Find a Gastroenterology Specialist Near You
Call Us to Schedule Your Colonoscopy
Call Us to Schedule Your Colonoscopy
713.790.3333
Our Approach to Colon Care
Our gastroenterologists, as well as our primary care doctors, take a proactive approach to colon care. We will refer you for a preventive colonoscopy if you are 45 years of age or older and have never had a screening colonoscopy, or if it has been 10 years or more since your last screening.
If you have had an immediate family member diagnosed with colorectal cancer,
we recommend an earlier screening
at age 40, or 10 years before the age your family member was diagnosed — whichever is earlier. Or, if you experience intestinal problems such as abdominal pain, blood in the stool or prolonged diarrhea, you may be referred for an immediate colonoscopy.
You may also be able to schedule a colonoscopy for yourself. Call us at
713.790.3333
to find out if you qualify. Please consult your insurance provider to confirm coverage if you are under the age of 45.
Ranked #7 in the Nation for GI Care
Houston Methodist Hospital is ranked Best in Texas and No. 7 in the nation by
U.S. News & World Report
for Gastroenterology & GI surgery.
U.S. News & World Report
has also named Houston Methodist Hospital one of the nation’s best as a nationally ranked Honor Roll hospital.
Learn More ➝
Colonoscopies for Colon Care at Houston Methodist
There are many steps you can take to support better digestive health, like taking a probiotic and getting plenty of fiber in your diet. But there are some conditions that no amount of lifestyle changes can help you avoid. Colon cancer affects one in 23 men and one in 25 women, making it one of the most common forms of cancer in the world.
Fortunately, colon cancer is, to a certain extent, preventable. And if cancer is discovered in the early stage, it’s often treatable. That’s why our team at Houston Methodist is committed to helping you maintain regular colon care, starting with colonoscopies. Here are three ways our gastroenterologists use colonoscopies to care for the colon:
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Screening colonoscopies are endoscopy procedures recommended for all individuals over the age of 45. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, we recommend an earlier screening at age 40, or 10 years before the age your family member was diagnosed — whichever is earlier.
To perform a colonoscopy, your physician inserts a flexible tube, called a colonoscope, into the rectum and colon. The colonoscope has a light on the end, and the physician guides it through the area, monitoring the inside of the colon through a video monitor. The physician then takes pictures, notes any abnormalities and recommends next steps.
If the colonoscopy is normal, you will be cleared to wait 10 years for the next screening, unless you develop any concerning symptoms or related health issues before then.
Polyp Removal
It is not unusual for your gastroenterologist to find colon polyps during your colonoscopy. These are small growths of tissue inside the colon, and while they’re most often benign, they can become cancerous if left untreated.
If polyps are discovered during your procedure, they will often be removed right then, to prevent them from becoming malignant. Most of the time, polyps are asymptomatic. However, if they go undetected, you may notice some gastrointestinal changes, like constipation, bloating or abdominal pain. Be sure to let your gastroenterologist know you’ve had these symptoms prior to your colonoscopy.
Diagnostic Colonoscopy
Colonoscopies are primarily a cancer screening tool, but they can also be used to rule out or diagnose other conditions. Your physician may recommend a colonoscopy if you are symptomatic and Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease or ulcerative colitis are suspected.
If you experience intestinal problems such as abdominal pain, blood in the stool or prolonged diarrhea, you may be referred for an immediate colonoscopy. If abnormalities or suspicious growths are found, your physician may take tissue samples to perform a biopsy which could confirm colon or rectal cancer.
If you have unusual symptoms and are concerned about your risk of colorectal cancer, you should call
713.790.3333
to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist.
What to Expect From Your Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy Preparation
A few days before your colonoscopy, you’ll begin adjusting your diet to ensure your colon is properly prepared for the procedure. While specific instructions may vary, most patients are asked to follow a low-fiber diet for two to three days, transitioning to a clear liquid diet (water, broth, plain gelatin) 24 hours before the procedure.
The bowel preparation begins the afternoon or the night before your colonoscopy. Your doctor will direct you to take a prescribed oral laxative preparation solution. The laxative causes you to have diarrhea to clean your colon. In some cases when an oral laxative is not possible or effective, an enema may be needed. Emptying the bowels completely allows the doctor to see the inside of the rectum and colon during the procedure. The timing and instructions will depend on the specific preparation prescribed and the time of your procedure.
All details will be clearly outlined in your prescription, including any adjustments to your medications or supplements prior to the procedure. Rest assured, our care team is here to support you every step of the way.
During the Colonoscopy
Colonoscopies are not typically painful. You are sedated during the procedure to help you feel comfortable. You could experience slight pressure or cramping. This outpatient procedure is relatively quick, generally only 20 to 40 minutes.
During the procedure, you will lay on your side. The doctor inserts the colonoscope (long, flexible tube) into the rectum. A small camera placed at the end of the tube allows the doctor to view the entire colon.
If abnormal tissue is found, a small amount of that tissue is removed for analysis (a biopsy). Your doctor will also remove any polyps located during the procedure.
Follow-up After the Procedure
It takes approximately one hour after the procedure for you to wake up and recover from the sedative. You may feel tired and groggy until the following day and will need to arrange for a ride home after the procedure.
You may experience bloating or have a need to pass gas for up to 30 minutes. A light walk can help relieve your discomfort.
It can be normal to experience a small amount of blood with your first bowel movement after the procedure, but side effects are usually minimal.
Call your doctor right away if you pass large blood clots or have severe abdominal pain, dizziness or a fever
, as this could be signs of a perforation of the colon wall.
Your doctor will tell you if any tissue was removed for testing and will follow up with you once the official lab results are available within a couple weeks.
Why Choose Houston Methodist for Your Colonoscopy?
No one looks forward to having a colonoscopy, but the fact remains that they are the number one way to prevent or catch colorectal cancer. If you are over the age of 45 or have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer, routine colonoscopies are a must. Trust the hospital that’s one of the top-ranked in gastroenterology in the nation; trust Houston Methodist. Our experts at the Underwood Center for Digestive Health lead the field in preventing, diagnosing and treating colorectal cancer.
Choose a Doctor at One of Our Locations
FILTERS:
Select All
Gastroenterology
General Surgery
Colon and Rectal Surgery
Accepting New Patients
Clear All Filters
No results were found that matched your search criteria.
Please try removing filters or zooming out on the map.
On Health Blog: Read More About Digestive Health & Colonoscopy
On Health Blog — Lifestyle & Wellness
On Health Blog — Lifestyle & Wellness
More On Health Articles
Frequently Asked Questions About Colonoscopies
Colonoscopy prep typically begins working within a few hours after you start taking it, though the timing can vary slightly depending on the type of preparation your doctor recommends. Most people start to have bowel movements about 1 to 3 hours after taking the first dose. It’s important to follow your prep instructions closely and stay near a restroom once you begin. If you have questions about the process or what to expect, your care team is here to help guide you through each step.
In many cases, colonoscopies are covered by insurance, especially when they’re performed as a preventive screening for colorectal cancer. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover screening colonoscopies for adults starting at age 45, as recommended by national guidelines. If a colonoscopy is done to investigate symptoms or as a follow-up to a previous test, coverage may vary. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand what’s included in your plan. If you have questions, our team can help you navigate your benefits and next steps.
A colonoscopy is not used to detect prostate cancer. While the prostate and colon are located near each other, a colonoscopy is designed to examine the inside of the colon and rectum to screen for colorectal cancer, polyps, and other conditions. Prostate cancer is typically detected through a blood test called a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test and a digital rectal exam (DRE). If you have concerns about your prostate health, your doctor can recommend the appropriate screening tests based on your age, risk factors and personal health history.
Yes, a colonoscopy is generally safe for individuals with heart conditions, but it’s important to take extra precautions. Before the procedure, your doctor will review your medical history, including any heart conditions, medications and recent procedures, to ensure the safest approach. In some cases, adjustments may be made to your prep or sedation plan. If you’re taking blood thinners or other heart medications, your care team will work closely with your cardiologist to coordinate care. At Houston Methodist, your safety and comfort are our top priorities every step of the way.
A colonoscopy is performed by a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the digestive system, although some surgeons may also perform them occasionally. Gastroenterologists are trained to perform this procedure safely and effectively, using it to screen for colorectal cancer, investigate symptoms like abdominal pain or rectal bleeding, and remove polyps if needed. If your primary care provider recommends a colonoscopy, they can help refer you to a trusted specialist. At Houston Methodist, our experienced gastroenterologists are here to guide you through the process with personalized care. You may be able to schedule a colonoscopy for yourself or qualify for a screening colonoscopy without having to see a gastroenterologist first. Call
713.790.3333
to see if you qualify.
Yes, colonoscopy prep may be adjusted for individuals who have had gastric bypass surgery. Because the digestive system is altered during bariatric procedures, your doctor may recommend a modified prep plan to ensure it’s both safe and effective. This might include changes to the type or amount of laxative used, as well as additional hydration strategies. It’s important to let your care team know about your surgical history so they can tailor the prep to your needs.
Colonoscopy prep is generally safe for most people, but certain types of bowel prep, especially phosphate-based solutions, may pose a risk to kidney function, particularly in those with preexisting kidney disease or other health conditions. Your doctor will review your medical history before recommending a prep to help minimize any risks.
In rare cases, colonoscopy prep can lead to changes in electrolyte levels, such as sodium or potassium, which may contribute to an irregular heartbeat, especially in people with underlying heart conditions. This is why it’s important to follow prep instructions carefully and stay well-hydrated throughout the process. If you have a history of heart rhythm issues or are taking medications that affect your heart, let your doctor know in advance.
After a colonoscopy, most patients stay in the recovery area for 30 to 60 minutes. This allows time for the effects of sedation to wear off and for your care team to monitor how you're feeling. You may feel a bit drowsy or bloated, which is normal. Before you leave, your doctor will review your results and provide follow-up instructions. Because of the sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home.
For most colonoscopies, you are given a sedative to help you relax and stay as comfortable as possible.
A colonoscopy is generally not painful, though you may feel some discomfort or pressure. Most patients are given a sedative to help them relax, and many experience little to no discomfort during the procedure. Afterward, some people may feel bloated or have mild cramping, but these sensations usually pass quickly. Your care team will work with you to ensure you're as comfortable as possible before, during and after the procedure.
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