What Are The Signs That You Should Have A Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a procedure that helps in examining the large intestine. Depending on the age, risk factors, and overall health, it is appropriate for you to have a routine colonoscopy. However, they will be situations where you cannot wait for the next appointment. But, have you ever understood the need for a colonoscopy immediately?

Colonoscopy is an internal investigation of the large intestine. The examination provides the opportunity for the doctor to look through the rectum and colon for abnormalities, growths, and polyps. The doctor performs the test using a flexible tube attached to a tiny video camera at one end. The doctor passes the tube through the rectum to examine the intestine.

With the help of the colonoscopy, it is possible for the doctor to look for intestinal problems or abnormalities that indicate cancer. The flexible tube is also capable of collecting tissue samples, which helps the doctor to perform a biopsy.

The following signs will be helpful for you to understand when it is time to seek a meeting with the doctor to undergo the colonoscopy test.

Change in bowel movement: It is possible for an individual suffering from colorectal cancer to notice a change in the bowel movements. It includes constipation, diarrhea, and occasional blood presence in the stool.

Feeling cramp all the time: Gas causes intestinal cramping. However, if you are suffering from gas cramps more often, then there is something in the colon that is trapping the gas.

Reduction in weight: Weight loss is good for health. However, if you notice a drop of 10 or 15 kilos without having the necessity to participate in exercises, then it is time to seek medical assistance. The unexplained weight loss is a sign of colon cancer. In such cases, the functionality of the colon deteriorates making it impossible to absorb the nutrients from the food.

Family history: The risk of undergoing a colonoscopy increases if any one of your family or a related has a history of intestinal problems like ulcers and Crohn’s disease. Moreover, if you are suffering from high cholesterol, high blood pressure, belong to African-American race, and a smoker, the chances are that you can develop colon cancer.

Previous tummy troubles: The valid reason to get a colonoscopy is digestive and stomach issues. It is possible for the test to clear away the causes of the discomfort and indigestion. If you are in pain because of persistent digestive problems, then it is preferable to undergo colon exams frequently. The reason is that a few of the digestive difficulties pose a severe threat and increase the risk for maturing into a complex disease, which includes rectal cancer.

The doctor will prescribe high fiber food and use of laxatives. It helps in cleansing the colon, which makes it viewable when the doctor performs the colonoscopy. You will receive a set of instructions prepared by the doctor, where the physician considers the age, overall health, and other underlying ailments. You can also talk to the doctor if you are under treatment or diabetic.

After the colonoscopy, the doctor will tell you whether you are suffering from any abnormalities. In certain situations, the doctor can collect tissue samples to perform a biopsy. Biopsy provides a clear picture of the health and helps the doctor arrive at a decision. The result will also help the doctor to schedule treatments and visits.

As colonoscopy provides a clear view of the large intestine and its health, you can avoid complications by attending to polyps, growths, and other abnormalities.

Also Read:

• What Is A Colonoscopy Procedure & Why Do You Need To Do It?
• Is Getting a Colonoscopy Painful?
• What are the Side Effects from a Colonoscopy?
• How Long Does It Take To Get A Colonoscopy?
• What Not To Eat Before a Colonoscopy?
• How Long will it take to Recover from a Colonoscopy?
• Questions To Ask After Colonoscopy
• What Age Can You Stop Having A Colonoscopy?