Why Regular Colonoscopies Are So Important For Your Health

Colon cancer is indeed a serious health issue but the fact cannot be denied that it is a preventable condition with regular colonoscopy. A top colonoscopy surgeon advises patients to undergo colonoscopy for early detection. It will help the doctors to identify any abnormal growth or polyps in the colon and remove them accordingly before they start spreading to other parts of the body.

In this blog, we will first understand what colonoscopy is and why is it necessary to have a regular colonoscopy screening.

What Is A Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is done to examine the inside of the large intestine, including the colon, rectum, and anus. During the procedure, an endoscope which is a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the body to look for any swollen and irritated tissues or polyps. The camera gives a view of the colon and rectum on the monitor which allows the surgeons to examine the lining of the large intestine.

Most people think that colonoscopy is a painful procedure. But in reality, it is not. It is completely a safe and painless procedure. Before the test, you will be given anesthesia to sedate the area, so that you won’t feel any pain. Even after the procedure, you will be prescribed medications to prevent you from suffering any kind of side effects.

In rare cases, if the doctor opts for a sedation-free colonoscopy, most patients report little or no discomfort at all.

What Are The Symptoms Indicating That You Should Have A Colonoscopy?

Colon cancer does not have any signs in the initial stage. Hence, it is difficult to detect and when it gets diagnosed, the cancer has already reached the advanced stage.

Below are the signs indicating that you must undergo a colonoscopy.

• Rectal bleeding with black stools
• A constant urge to pee
• Frequent abdominal pain and cramps
• Prolonged constipation
• Narrowing of the stool
• Extreme weakness and fatigue accompanied by unexplained weight loss

If you are experiencing any of the following signs, it is important to consult a colonoscopy surgeon to identify the cause of the symptoms and start timely treatment.

What Are The Benefits Of Having A Regular Colonoscopy?

Let’s have a look at some of the advantages of undergoing regular colonoscopy.

• Early detection of cancer cells
  As discussed, colonoscopy helps to detect cancerous polyps in the colon and rectum. Early detection increases the survival chance of patients and allows for a short recovery period.
• Reduced risk of cancer
  It is to be noted that merely the polyps are not cancerous. However, if they are left untreated, they can eventually turn cancerous. Colonoscopies help to detect the polyps and remove them before they turn cancerous.
• Better treatment outcomes
  A colonoscopy allows the doctors to have a better view of the large intestine. Hence, it allows for a more precise and accurate diagnosis with effective treatment outcomes.
• Prevention of other complications
  Besides looking for polyps, a colonoscopy also detects inflammation or infection in the colon which might pose future complications if left untreated.
• Diagnosis of other symptoms
  If you are someone who is facing abdominal pain for a long time, then a colonoscopy will help to diagnose the underlying cause of the pain and discomfort.

How Often Should You Get A Colonoscopy?

It is important for everyone to get a colonoscopy if they are over 45 years old every 10 years. Moreover, if you have a family history of polyps or colon cancer, it is also essential to get screened at least after 5 years.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a deadly disease. But remember, early detection is the key to a successful treatment and to prevent the development of the cancer in the first stage.

So, don’t delay in getting a colonoscopy. Make sure to talk to your doctor today.