Colonoscopy screening, in some cases called coloscopy, is a test conducted inside your bowel to determine what’s causing your symptoms. Ideally, doctors give you a laxative to empty your bowel. They then pass a long, thin, flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope) into your colon or rectum wall.
The aim of this medical procedure is to check the entire colon for bowel-related conditions like colon polyps, which can lead to colorectal cancer.
When Would You Need a Colonoscopy Screening?
A screening colonoscopy is a recommended procedure for everyone. Here’s when to consider getting one:
If You’ve Turned 45
A colonoscopy is a great way to detect colon and rectal cancers early. If you’re predisposed to these conditions, you’re better off having a regular screenings before the age of 45. The ballpark is about 10 years before the first person in your family was diagnosed.
However, for everyone else, 45 is the magic number. If doctors give you a clean bill of health, you’ll only need to have one every 10 years. Depending on your situation, you can still have a follow-up colonoscopy between the ages of 76-85.
If this sounds like a health move you need to make, you’re better off going for a colonoscopy Singapore or other services close to where you are. This is a great way to get ahead of potentially life-threatening illnesses and increase the odds of living a quality ad healthy life.
If You Experience Rectal Bleeding
Rectal bleeding is a symptom of many gastrointestinal diseases. Some culprits include inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer. In some cases, it could be hemorrhoids (swollen veins in the rectum), precancerous polyps, and so on. A colonoscopy will help you find an answer to your situation and the different ways to address it.
If You Notice Unexplained Changes in Bowel Habits
You bowel patterns may change depending on your lifestyle. It could be changes in your poop’s color, pooping consistency, and the amount of control you have over your bowel movements. However, if you don’t have a clear answer to and the changes seem overboard, you should consider having a colonoscopy procedure done.
For example, if you see a bright-red color in your poop, you may need to get checked for rectal bleeding. In some cases, your stool may be hard and dry. This could point to constipation. If it’s too watery, it could point to diarrhea. These are common gastrointestinal symptoms and usually clear out in a few days. If it lasts more than two weeks, you definitely need to see a doctor.
If You Experience Unintentional Weight Loss
If you find yourself losing weight without even trying, you should be concerned. A study published in 2018 established that about 38% of people diagnosed with colon cancer exhibited unintentional weight loss as a symptom.
So, if you’ve not changed your exercise routine or eating habits and still feel like you’re wasting away, it may be time to go see a doctor.
If You Have Unexplained Persistent Stomach Pain
There are many causes of abdominal pains. It could be indigestion, constipation, food allergies, maybe even food poisoning. However, in some cases, it could be a result of a more serious medical condition like gall stones, some forms of cancers, duodenal ulcers, etc.
If the abdominal discomfort lasts more than a week, you may need to consider seeing a medical practitioner. Depending on your situation, they may recommend a colonoscopy or any other relevant tests to help you get to the bottom of the situation.
You should also prioritize a doctor’s visit if you’re being treated for cancer, are unable to pass stool and are still vomiting, had a recent injury to your abdomen, and also experience neck, chest, and shoulder pain.
Colonoscopy FAQs
Here are a few concerns to consider:
Is Colonoscopy the Only Screening Method?
No. There are other screening procedures you can consider. A good example is the fecal immunochemical test (FIT test). You can do this at home and send a stool sample to the lab for analysis.
If you get a clean bill of health and your family has no history of colon cancer, this is a good test to have with. If it comes back positive, you may need to consider a colonoscopy.
What If Doctors Find a Colorectal Polyp During Colonoscopy?
In case the doctor encounters a polyp (a protrusion from the walls of your ileum), they’ll remove it with a looped wire that slips inside the tube and send a tissue sample to the lab for testing. You can expect results in 7-10 days.
Does Colonoscopy Hurt?
Generally, no. It may be a little uncomfortable but that’s about it. Also, the procedure takes between 20-45 minutes. If you account for the time you arrive to when you’re discharged, it could be two hours or thereabout.
Closing Thoughts
A colonoscopy screening can go a long way towards getting you on a healthy path. However, before you go for the procedure, consult your doctor. They are best placed to guide you on the way forward.
