Taking A Look At Your Colon
A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows visualization of the colon and rectum. A colonoscopy helps to look for abnormal changes, diagnose, and treat the condition. For public health measures, colonoscopy screening is done starting at the age of about 45 in men and women. However, a colonoscopy is imperative when one experiences severe gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms regardless of age.
Who is a candidate?
A colonoscopy is essential when one faces GI symptoms that should not be ignored. The symptoms include persistent abdominal pain, chronic changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding or discharge, and weight changes. Additionally, this is necessary if one has a family history of colorectal cancer or other colon diseases. The presence of inflammatory bowel disease requires colonoscopy as well.
The screening guidelines
As per public health screening guidelines, every individual requires a colonoscopy starting at the age of 45. This screening is necessary till the age of at least 75. The screening is usually done every 10 years unless specified by the family physician. A person with a family history of colorectal cancer or genetic disorder may require more frequent screening.
The process of colonoscopy
Diet instructions and taking laxatives are explained to the patient the day before the procedure. On the day of the colonoscopy, the patient is sedated and when ready, the colonoscope is introduced into the rectum. The colonoscope is a long, thin tube with a video camera attached to the tip. If needed, the doctor may introduce some instruments to take a biopsy or remove unusual tissues. The whole process takes about 30-60 minutes.
What conditions are diagnosed?
The colonoscopy allows the doctor to visualize abnormalities such as inflammation, polyps, and cancerous tissue during the procedure. A function of colonoscopy is the ability to diagnose various GI issues. This procedure can help diagnose conditions such as chronic colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis, bowel ulcers or obstructions, polyps, and colorectal cancer.
Using it as a treatment
The other function of colonoscopy is that this procedure can be used to treat certain conditions. If a doctor finds an abnormality such as a polyp, this can be removed simultaneously. Other treatments performed include injecting medications, placing stents, or treating blockages.
The safety of colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is generally a safe procedure. The chances of risks and complications are uncommon but can happen. The potential adverse events are infection, bleeding, and injury to the colon or nearby structure.
Your guide to colonoscopy
A healthy adult requires a colonoscopy screening starting at the age of 45. A family history of colon disorders requires more attention to colonoscopy screening. Additionally, a colonoscopy is crucial if one experiences severe abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, unexplained bowel changes, and weight change.
