Colonoscopy in Denver, Colorado Springs, & Lone Tree, CO

Name: Colonoscopy
Brand: Peak Gastroenterology Associates

A colonoscopy is a routine procedure to screen for colon cancer and to diagnose the cause of symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. The board-certified doctors at Peak Gastroenterology Associates have extensive experience performing colonoscopies at their Colorado Springs, Denver, and Lone Tree, Colorado clinics. If you have questions about colon cancer screening or need to schedule a diagnostic colonoscopy, call one of the offices or book an appointment online.

What Is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor at Peak Gastroenterology Associates to examine the inside of your rectum and colon. To perform this examination, your doctor uses a colonoscope, which is a narrow, flexible tube outfitted with lighting and a video camera. After inserting the colonoscope through your rectum, your doctor gently advances the scope to the end of your large intestine and slowly withdraws it. As the colonoscope travels through the intestine, it sends a magnified view of the intestinal lining to a monitor, allowing your doctor to identify and treat problems. Colonoscopies are often performed to screen for colon cancer and to find the cause of symptoms, such as rectal bleeding, persistent diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

woman sitting in a chair, touching her hair

When Should I Get a Colonoscopy Screening?

The threat of colorectal cancer is not something that should be taken lightly. This common disease is the deadliest form of cancer for men under the age of 50 and the second deadliest for women under the age of 50. Fortunately, as long as you're diligent and proactive, prevention is possible.

When colon polyps first appear, they’re always benign or noncancerous. Over the years, however, the cells in the polyp may start growing abnormally and become cancerous. A colonoscopy prevents colon cancer by finding and removing polyps before they become cancerous or while cancer is still confined to the polyp.

Healthy patients with an average risk of developing colon cancer should schedule their first colonoscopy at the age of 45. After that, it's important to schedule at least one colonoscopy every decade. However, if you have increased risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer, it's essential that you start getting colonoscopies even earlier. For individuals with an increased risk of colon cancer, we typically recommend getting your first colonoscopy either at age 40 or 10 years earlier than the earliest case of colorectal cancer in your family history.

What Should I Expect During a Colonoscopy?

Your colon must be cleaned so your Peak Gastroenterology Associates doctor can see the intestinal wall and identify problems. Before your colonoscopy, you’ll receive instructions about how to cleanse your colon, a procedure that typically includes a liquid diet and laxatives. On the day of your colonoscopy, you’ll receive sedation before your procedure. Some patients sleep, while others stay awake but are very relaxed and comfortable. Your doctor inflates the colon by gently pumping air and sterile water through the scope into the colon, then performs the colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy in Denver typically takes 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of polyps that need to be removed and any other problems that may need attention. You can go home after the medication wears off, which takes about an hour. To schedule a colonoscopy today, call Peak Gastroenterology Associates or use the online booking feature.

Why Colonoscopy

Preparing for a Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy FAQ

How long does a colonoscopy procedure take?

The actual colonoscopy procedure usually takes about 20 to 60 minutes, but the total time, including preparation and post-procedure recovery, can be around 2 to 3 hours. Patients typically arrive early to complete paperwork, get prepped, and receive sedation. After the procedure, you will need time to recover from sedation under observation.

What is the recovery time after a colonoscopy?

Recovery is generally quick. Most patients can leave the hospital or clinic the same day after the sedation wears off. You may feel drowsy or experience mild bloating or cramping, which should subside within a few hours. It is recommended to avoid driving, drinking alcohol, or making important decisions for 24 hours due to the lingering effects of sedation. You can usually return to your normal diet and activities the following day unless your doctor advises otherwise. If polyps were removed during the colonoscopy, you may have specific dietary or activity restrictions for a short time.

Does a colonoscopy hurt?

A colonoscopy is generally not painful. Most patients receive sedation or anesthesia, which helps them feel relaxed or even sleep through the procedure. You may feel some pressure, cramping, or bloating during or shortly after the exam, but these sensations are usually mild and temporary. After the procedure, it's normal to pass gas or feel slightly bloated, but discomfort typically resolves within a few hours.

What are the biggest risks of a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is considered a very safe procedure, especially when performed by an experienced specialist. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks to be aware of, including:

Bleeding - especially if a polyp is removed.
Perforation – a rare but serious risk involving a small tear in the colon wall.
Adverse reaction to sedation – such as breathing issues or allergic response.
Infection – uncommon, but possible.
Post-procedure discomfort – mild bloating or cramping may occur.

While complications are rare, your doctor will review your health history and monitor you closely to ensure your safety throughout the process.

Is weight loss after a colonoscopy normal?

Some patients may notice a small, temporary drop in weight following a colonoscopy. This is usually due to the bowel preparation process, which involves fasting and cleansing the colon with laxatives. This can result in water loss and reduced food content in the digestive system—not actual fat loss. Once normal eating resumes, weight typically returns to your baseline within a few days.

How much does a colonoscopy cost?

The cost of a colonoscopy varies based on your insurance coverage and whether the procedure is classified as preventive or diagnostic. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover screening colonoscopies at little or no cost to the patient. Our team is happy to help you navigate your benefits and provide guidance on what to expect before your procedure.