A tiny light and
camera or
fiber optic array, mounted on the end of a long, flexible tube which is sometimes wrapped in a
balloon that can be inflated to stretch the
tube for viewing. It is very
uncomfortable. Once you pass
middle age, you can look forward to having one of these things shoved up your
butt every few years. And if you are at a risk for
stomach cancer or
colon cancer, you can expect the colonoscope far more often.
According to my high school Biology teacher, who told us about it, the best way to prevent stomach cancer, and minimize visits from the colonoscope is to eat regular portions of salad, and let the cellulose in the greens clean out your intestines. This is why I like salad.