Diabetes and Risks During Colonoscopy

Due to the increased risk factors in people with diabetes, some patients are concerned about diabetes and risks during colonoscopy. People who have diabetes are more likely to experience infections and a delayed healing process. Sometimes after a colonoscopy test, patients with diabetes may also have high or low blood sugar levels. It is important to report any symptoms of high or low blood sugar (such as vision problems or shortness of breath), so that the healthcare team can be aware of any possible problems.

Risks of Colonoscopy

An Overview of Diabetes and Risks During Colonoscopy

If you have

diabetes, it is important to realize that, when you have a colonoscopy, you are more likely to have:

An infection
A delayed healing process.

Because of risks involved with this procedure, it is essential for you to communicate with your healthcare providers so they can be aware of any possible problems.

Also, you probably know about the signs and symptoms that occur with high or low blood sugar levels.

They can include:

Weakness
Vision problems
Shortness of breath
Anxiety
Sweating.

If you have any of these problems after your colonoscopy, they may have nothing to do with diabetes. They could mean that you have bleeding or some other problem resulting from your procedure. Check your blood sugar levels, and if you have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), treat it. If your blood sugar returns to normal and you are still having problems, or if your blood sugar stays low, tell your doctor immediately. You may be asked to check your blood sugar more often to help find out what is causing the problem.