Closed Caption - Colonoscopy Risks -- Heart and Lung Problems

There are several heart or lung problems that rarely can occur during this procedure. Most are related to the medication used to make the procedure more comfortable. However patients with serious heart or lung conditions may be at increased risk of developing such problems.

Most heart or lung problems are minor and easily treated by your healthcare providers. Although they are rare, more serious problems can also occur, such as:

• Irregular heart rhythms, or

• Heart or lung failure.

Because of this risk, instruments and medications will be close at hand, and your healthcare providers have advanced training for these situations.

These problems can result in a longer hospital stay. In extreme cases, a breathing tube and machine may be necessary to assist in breathing. Loss of life is also a possibility. But again, this is rare.

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