While colon problems can result from aging or a family history of colon cancer, sometimes the problems can arise from a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. You should consider regular colonoscopies if you think you are at risk of colon cancer and other intestinal issues. You can benefit from colonoscopy Katy through early detection of diseases that affect your colon and seek treatment before you experience complications.
A Colonoscopy is a procedure that examines your rectum and colon and checks for abnormal growths. They can detect conditions like ulcers, colon polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, colon cancer, rectal cancer, and diverticular disease.
What happens during the procedure?
Before the procedure, your specialist will give you preparation details to clear your bowels for effective screening. During the procedure, your doctor will guide a long and thin scope through your anus and into your rectum and colon. Using an attached camera, they will look for abnormalities.
If you have colon polyps, they will use a thin surgical tool with forceps to extract them without incisions.
When do you need a colonoscopy?
You should watch out for the following signs before you contact your specialist for a colonoscopy:
Sudden and unexplained weight loss
Losing weight without diet or exercise adjustments can be a cause for alarm. You might lose your appetite and feel weak, warranting your doctor’s office visit. Such symptoms might indicate that you have inflammatory bowel disease, a condition that causes digestive tract inflammation.
Abdominal pain
Colon inflammation or bowel obstruction can result in abdominal pain. You might experience stomach pain and cramps if your colon is irritated. If you are constipated and find it difficult to have bowel movements, your abdominal pain can be severe, requiring medical attention.
Bloating
Stomach distention and the need to pass gas can be painful or frustrating. If you have colon problems, you might have a lot of gas in your digestive system. If your stool stays a long time in your intestines, the bacteria will break it down, causing gas, which leads to bloating and abdominal pain.
Change in bowel movements
If your diet and meal times are regular and consistent, your bowel habits will also be consistent. However, you might experience diarrhea or narrower stools than normal if your colon is not working properly. Sometimes, you might feel like your bowel is not completely empty after passing stool.
How does a colonoscopy improve your health?
Undergoing a colonoscopy will help your doctor detect cancer in its early stages and offer treatment to eliminate or make it manageable. The screening can also check for polyps, which are precancerous, and remove them, preventing cancer. You should have regular screening if you are at risk of developing colon or rectal cancer.
If you experience rectal bleeding or other symptoms like bowel habits changes, visit Imperial Digestive Health Specialists PLLC for a colonoscopy. The highly-qualified specialists will evaluate your symptoms and give you preparation guidelines before the exam. Call or schedule your appointment online today and improve your health.
