A colonoscopy is the most effective medical test for exploring the inside of the colon and rectum. It allows for the early detection of abnormalities such as polyps, the diagnosis of intestinal diseases, and the prevention of colon cancer.
Generally, a screening colonoscopy is recommended starting at age 50 (or earlier if there is a family history) as a preventive measure, or when symptoms such as blood in the stool, persistent abdominal pain, or sudden changes in bowel habits occur. Thanks to current techniques using deep sedation, it is now a completely painless and safe procedure.
When is it necessary to have a colonoscopy?
There are two main scenarios in which your specialist may recommend this test:
A. For prevention and screening (colon cancer)
Colon cancer is one of the few cancers that can be effectively prevented through a colonoscopy. It allows polyps (small benign growths) to be detected and removed before they turn into malignant lesions.
- General population: from age 50.
- With a family history: from age 40 (or 10 years before the age at which the family member was diagnosed).
B. Due to the presence of digestive symptoms
You should consult a doctor if you regularly experience:
- Visible blood in the stool or a positive fecal occult blood test.
- Unexplained changes in bowel habits (chronic constipation or diarrhea lasting for weeks).
- Significant weight loss for no apparent reason.
- Iron deficiency anemia of unknown origin.
How to prepare for a colonoscopy? Step by step
In order for the doctor to correctly visualize the walls of the colon, it must be completely clean. Proper preparation ensures diagnostic accuracy and avoids having to repeat the test.
Here is the general guideline you should follow in the days prior:
| Days before the test | What should you do? | Permitted / Prohibited foods |
| 3 days before | Start a low-residue (low-fiber) diet. | Permitted: Broths, white rice, pasta, grilled meat and fish, boiled potatoes (without skin).
Prohibited: Vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grain products, and nuts. |
| The day before | Start a strict liquid diet and take the bowel prep (laxative) prescribed by the center. |
Permitted: Water, clear herbal teas, strained broths. Prohibited: Dairy products, carbonated beverages, or red/purple colored liquids. |
| Day of the test | Maintain a strict fast from solids and liquids (about 6 hours before the appointment, according to medical instructions). | Come accompanied to the center (due to the effects of sedation). |
What is the procedure like at CreuBlanca?
We know that a colonoscopy can cause anxiety. That is why at our centers we prioritize your comfort and peace of mind:
- Painless (sedation): the test is performed under deep sedation assisted by an anesthesiologist. You will gently fall asleep and wake up once the examination is finished, without having felt any discomfort.
- Immediate removal of polyps: if the specialist locates a polyp during the test, it is removed (polypectomy) at that very moment to be analyzed, thus avoiding a second intervention.
- Continuity of care: at CreuBlanca, we accompany you throughout the entire process. From the first consultation with the gastroenterologist, to the test in operating rooms equipped with high-definition technology, to the rapid delivery of the anatomical report and subsequent instructions.
When should you see a specialist?
If you experience persistent digestive discomfort, constant bloating, recurrent abdominal pain, or if you have turned 50 and want to plan your preventive health, it is time to request an appointment with a digestive system specialist (gastroenterologist).
The specialist will evaluate your medical history, determine whether a colonoscopy or a gastroscopy (or both combined) is a priority in your case, and provide you with the exact medical guidelines for optimal and safe preparation.
Gastroenterology and endoscopy specialists in Barcelona and Maresme
Are you looking for a trusted center for your digestive consultation or preventive colonoscopy?
At CreuBlanca, we have a medical team of digestive system specialists and operating rooms fully equipped with the latest endoscopic technology to guarantee maximum diagnostic precision. We perform colonoscopies and gastroscopies under sedation to ensure your absolute comfort, speeding up the delivery of reports and results as much as possible.
You can visit us privately or through one of the over 30 health insurance companies we collaborate with. We have several medical centers in Barcelona and Mataró so you can choose the one that is most convenient for you.