When Do You Need Colonoscopy?

Colorectal cancer is becoming more common, especially among young adults. While this is concerning, it is crucial to remember that your gastroenterologist has a method for preventing and even detecting colorectal cancer early. A colonoscopy can be used as a diagnostic tool as well as a treatment for colon polyps and other problems. Regardless of age or gender, everyone will need a colon cancer screening at some point. Here are some of the reasons why your gastroenterologist might suggest a colonoscopy:

You're Having Digestive Problems

A colonoscopy is frequently performed for this reason. Unless a GI specialist examines the inside of the body, it's not always easy to determine the source of rectal bleeding, constipation, stomach pain, diarrhea, or other intestinal problems. A colonoscopy is generally the best way to find out what's going on if your problems can't be diagnosed with a blood test, physical examination, or stool sample.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Is Required

If you're 50 years old or older and have an average risk of colon cancer, your gastroenterologist may recommend a colonoscopy every 10 years to check for cancer. Those who are at a higher risk of colon cancer may need to be checked more frequently.

•        A colon cancer family history

•        A colon polyp personal history

•        Alcohol Consumption

•        Smoking

•        An inactive lifestyle

•        Habit of unhealthy diet and processed foods

Need for checking and removing colon polyp

Polyps must be removed as soon as possible to lower your risk of developing colon cancer. Colon polyps are easily removed during a standard colonoscopy, but because they raise your risk of colorectal cancer, your gastroenterologist may advise you to get one more frequently.

A gastroenterologist is the best medical professional to consult if you've just reached 50 and need to schedule a routine colonoscopy or if you're having digestive problems. Don't put off getting the preventive treatment you need to keep colorectal cancer at bay.

A colonoscopy examines the rectum and the large intestine for abnormalities or changes. A long, flexible tube i.e. colonoscope is placed into the rectum during a colonoscopy. The doctor can see the inside of the colon thanks to a tiny video camera at the tube's tip.

Colonoscopy removes abnormal tissue and polyps by the scope. This process also takes sample of tissues for biopsies.

Why Is It Done This Way?

A colonoscopy may be recommended by your doctor to:

• Examine intestinal signs and symptoms. Your doctor can use a colonoscopy to look into the reasons of chronic constipation, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea, and other issues.

• Have a colon cancer screening. If you're 50 or more and have average colon cancer risk, your doctor may suggest colonoscopy for every 10 years or sooner. Colonoscopy is one method for detecting colon cancer. Discuss your alternatives with your doctor.

• Keep an eye out for additional polyps. If you've previously had polyps, your doctor may suggest a follow-up colon cancer screening to look for and remove any new ones. This is done to lower your chances of developing colon cancer.

At Screen the City we have arranged services for the patients in and around Oklahoma City. See us for screening today.

**Disclaimer: This blog content does not intend to offer a doctor’s advice and mentions no relationship between any patient and the care provider.