How Can an Initial Colonoscopy Screening Protect My Health?
Summary: Colonoscopies offer the best defense for detecting and protecting against colon cancer and other GI issues. Discover when to get your first screening.
Among the best methods of guarding against or identifying colon or rectal cancer early on is receiving periodic colorectal screenings. However, over 50% of adults who are eligible have not completed their first colonoscopy screening. The American Cancer Society (ACS) advises that individuals who have an average risk of getting colorectal cancer start receiving routine colonoscopy screenings at age 45. As reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), millions of individuals throughout the U.S. are not undergoing colorectal cancer screening tests as recommended, reducing the opportunity for detecting the condition early. To discover whether you are eligible for an initial colonoscopy test, reach out to the team at Hinsdale Gastroenterology Associates to book an appointment. Our exceptionally trained digestive health physicians regularly provide colonoscopies for Hinsdale, IL individuals.
What should I know about having a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy test is a type of colon cancer assessment that is conducted with a thin, flexible device containing a small camera. It is placed into the rectum and on into the colon by a Hinsdale Gastroenterology Associates GI specialist to check for growths (polyps) or other abnormal tissue that may have developed. In the event abnormal tissues are found, they can be removed at the time of the procedure and tested for cancer. Patients receive a rapid-acting, safe sedation medication prior to the colonoscopy to allow them to undergo the process without discomfort.
What to expect following a colonoscopy screening
After your first colonoscopy is complete and sedation begins to dissipate, our Hinsdale, IL medical staff will explain any discoveries to you. If we do identify any concern that calls for a more extensive investigation, your GI specialist will develop a treatment approach personalized for your medical needs. We strongly suggest that you have someone close to you escort you home following your procedure. When the effects of the sedative medication have passed, you should be able to resume your regular routine and diet within a day. At times, people notice minor side effects, like abdominal cramps, gassiness, and bloating, for several days. In the event you are affected by extreme discomfort, bleeding, or fever, you should seek immediate medical care.
How often should people have colonoscopy screenings?
It is recommended that those having an average chance of getting colon or rectal cancer start screenings when they are 45. Additional colonoscopy assessment should take place every ten years up through age 75. After age 75, each person should discuss their doctor to determine screening intervals that best suit their healthcare requirements.
Why schedule regular colorectal screenings?
Though a colonoscopy screening can allow for the discovery of initial colorectal cancer, the process can also detect possible reasons behind other gastric problems, including long-term changes in bowel habits (loose stools and/or constipation), anemia and bleeding, hemorrhoids, causes of abdominal/anorectal pain, and sudden unexplained weight loss. The exceptionally trained GI specialists at Hinsdale Gastroenterology Associates use the most up-to-date techniques and processes to diagnose and address many diseases of the digestive system.
Where can I set up my first colonoscopy in Hinsdale, IL?
Regular colorectal cancer screenings are the recommended option for discovering this serious GI concern. If you are over the age of 45 with an average risk of colon cancer, we recommend that you arrange for your first colonoscopy screening at Hinsdale Gastroenterology Associates as soon as you can. Reach out to our team today for a colonoscopy consultation with one of our Hinsdale, IL digestive health specialists.