You’ve turned 45, and your primary care doctor has recommended that you start getting routine colonoscopies. You’ve heard of the hassle of prep and the slight discomfort following the procedure. You feel just fine, so why should you follow their advice and contact us at GastroDoxs to schedule your colonoscopy?
Well, a colonoscopy is a critical preventive health measure for people who have an average risk of colorectal cancer. “Average risk” means you have no personal or family history of colorectal cancer, no inflammatory bowel disease, and no genetic markers or past radiation treatment that puts you at risk for colon cancer.
As a side note, if you have a higher risk of colon cancer, colonoscopies are non-negotiable parts of your preventive health care and may be scheduled sooner and more frequently than they are for the average risk person.
Our gastroenterologist, Dr. Bharat Pothuri, explains all the ways a colonoscopy can help your health.
If you have unusual digestive symptoms without a clear cause, a colonoscopy gives Dr. Pothuri a close-up look at your large intestine. This helps him diagnose the reason you’re suffering from problems such as:
A colonoscopy means you get a more accurate diagnosis, a targeted treatment plan, and relief from unpleasant symptoms.
Routine colonoscopies can help reduce death from colon cancer.
A colonoscopy can identify polyps, which are growths in your colon that have the potential to turn into cancer or that are in the first stages of cancer. The number and size of your polyps tend to correlate to your chances of developing colorectal cancer.
When polyps or cancer is found at an early stage, treatment is far more effective, and you have a far greater chance of a cure. Research suggests that colonoscopies reduce the chance of death from colon cancer by 65%.
Diverticulosis is a condition in which small pouches have developed along the walls of your colon. The condition is benign, but if the pouches become inflamed -- it turns into diverticulitis. Then you develop symptoms like severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and a marked change in your bowel habits.
Diverticulitis flare-ups are also related to colon cancer. If this condition is found, Dr. Pothuri may recommend more frequent colonoscopies to keep tabs on your bowel health.
The condition of melanosis coli describes when your colon lining turns brown or black. It may develop due to routine laxative use. Though the condition is likely harmless and not related to colorectal cancer, Dr. Pothuri may want to keep tabs on your bowel health to be cautious.
When you come in for an appointment, Dr. Pothuri explains the entire colonoscopy procedure and what to expect beforehand and afterward. This helps make your colonoscopy go smoothly and causes minimal disruption to your daily schedule.
Dr. Pothuri can also give you important advice as to how you can greatly reduce your risk of colorectal cancer. This includes quitting smoking and eating more fiber from fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
If you’re ready to schedule a colonoscopy, call GastroDoxs or use this online tool to request an appointment.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Yes, a colonoscopy helps detect and remove polyps, prevent colorectal cancer, diagnose digestive issues, and provide early treatment for gut-related conditions.
Colonoscopy can improve gut health by detecting and addressing inflammation, infections, and abnormal growths that may impact digestion and overall well-being.
While the procedure itself doesn’t provide immediate relief, identifying and treating underlying issues like polyps or inflammation can improve long-term digestive health.
A colonoscopy can help remove polyps, detect and manage inflammatory bowel diseases, identify sources of bleeding, and diagnose digestive disorders for proper treatment.
Yes, even healthy individuals should get a routine colonoscopy starting at age 45 to screen for polyps or early signs of colorectal cancer, especially if they have risk factors.
