Skip to Content
UW Health SMPH

Home Care after Flexible Sigmoidoscopy or Rectal Dilitation HF#6254

What to Expect

 

It is common to have bloating and gas pains because air was put into your colon.  You will feel better when you expel the air.

 

If tissue samples were taken, a small amount of rectal bleeding may be present.

 

At Home

 

  • You must have an adult drive you home.  You should not drive today.
  • Do not drink alcohol.  Do not take tranquilizers or sleeping pills tonight.
  • Rest today. You may resume normal daily tasks tomorrow.
  • You may resume your routine medicines unless told otherwise. 
  • You may resume your normal diet.  Start out light to prevent nausea.
  • There may be some soreness and redness at the IV site for a day or two.  You can relieve this by placing a warm, moist washcloth over the area.  Please contact your primary doctor if this does not improve in a couple of days.
  • Do not make any important decisions today.

 

Call your doctor right away if you have

 

  • chills
  • fever over 101º F for two readings taken 4 hours apart
  • abdominal pain
  • large amount of rectal bleeding (greater than 1-2 tablespoons)
  • extreme abdominal bloating

 

Phone Numbers

 

Digestive Health Center, 8am to 5pm weekdays, (608) 890-5000.
After clinic hours, please call (608) 890-5000.  Give your name and phone number with the area code.  The doctor will call you back.
 
If you live outside of the Madison area, please call 1-855-342-9900.
 
 
UW Health Digestive Health Center
750 University Row
Madison, WI
(608) 890-5000
(855) 342-9900

 

University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics
GI Procedure Clinic
600 Highland Avenue
Madison, WI
(608) 263-8097
(800) 323-8942



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 04/24/2013

Copyright © 04/10/2013 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6254

Print Health Fact For You