Colonoscopy
According to the American Cancer Society, 45 is the new 50 for colorectal cancer prevention. Treatment works best with early detection. People age 45 and over may benefit from consulting a gastroenterologist to screen for colorectal cancer. Having a family history of colorectal cancer increases your risk. Ask your doctor about when to start getting screenings or colonoscopies.
Schedule an appointment with one of our colonoscopy doctors in Modesto or Turlock today. Call 209-577-3388 to learn more about your risk for colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal disorders.
How Much Do You Know About Colon Cancer?
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure a doctor uses to view the interior of the colon and rectum. It allows a doctor to check for any irritation, swelling, polyps, ulcers and cancer. Colonoscopy uses a colonoscope, a long, flexible tube the width of a finger with a small video camera and lighting at the end.
Colonoscopy may be recommended if you experience these symptoms:
- Unexplained rectal discharge or bleeding.
- Persistent abdominal pain.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Unexplained diarrhea, incontinence, constipation or other bowel conditions.
- H2: What Diseases Can be Detected by Colonoscopy?
- Colonoscopy might help diagnose:
- Colorectal cancer – when cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control.
- Colorectal polyps – growths in the rectum or large intestine.
- Chronic colitis – persistent inflammation of the colon, the main part of the large intestine.
- Intestinal ischemia – a serious condition caused by reduced blood flow to part of the intestine.
- Ischemic colitis – colon inflammation caused by reduced blood flow.
- Diverticulosis – the presence of diverticula or small pouches bulging outward through the colon.
- Diverticulitis – inflammation of the diverticula.
- Ulcers – open and painful sore.
- Colon perforation – tear, puncture or cut in the colon wall.
- Large bowel obstructions – a medical emergency wherein something blocks the large intestine, causing gas and stool to build up and may result in intestine rupture.