What Gastrointestinal Disorders Can A Colonoscopy Detect?
Posted By Author on January 3, 2022
While a colonoscopy is a powerful prevention tool, the procedure itself is really quite simple– and certainly nothing to fear. Thanks to modern medical technology, colonoscopies are accurate detectors of colorectal cancer, making it one of the most preventable of all cancers. So let’s begin learning more on what gastrointestinal disorders a colonoscopy detect.
After you have completed the bowel prep, your GI specialist will use a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera to examine your colon and rectum as well as your intestinal lining. While you are sedated, they will check for inflammation, polyps and other abnormalities.
Common Gastrointestinal Disorders a Colonoscopy Detect
A colonoscopy can also be used to detect other gastrointestinal disorders, like the following:
- Ulcerative colitis
- Colon polyps (precancerous and noncancerous)
- Crohn’s Disease (inflammatory bowel disease)
- Diverticulosis
- Internal hemorrhoids
If your Charleston GI gastroenterologist spots polyps, they will remove polyps for testing during the procedure – quickly and painlessly!
Signs That You May Need To Schedule A Colonoscopy
Following updated guidance by the American Cancer Society, our team of gastroenterology specialists recommend colon cancer screenings starting at 45 years old, even if you are not experiencing symptoms.
Here are some signs that it is time to schedule a colonoscopy:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, etc.) lasting more than a few weeks
- Persistent sensation of needing to have a bowel movement
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Stomach discomfort or abdominal pain
- Weakness or fatigue
- Unintentional weight loss
Patients suffering from gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, are more likely to develop colorectal cancer. That means that a colonoscopy is even more crucial!
Schedule An Appointment with Our Charleston Gastroenterology Specialists
With four convenient locations, Charleston GI remains the largest independent gastroenterology practice in the Lowcountry. Offering 4 convenient office locations in Summerville, Carnes Crossroads, Mt. Pleasant, and West Ashley ,so scheduling is simple!
No referral needed!
So, if you’re looking for a good gastroenterologist near me, you need to choose the trusted team at Charleston GI .
Charleston GI also provides telehealth services! Speak with one of our board certified gastroenterologists from the comfort of home. Our team is equipped to treat a wide variety of digestive conditions that impact the GI tract, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), lactose intolerance, celiac disease and more! If you are experiencing symptoms of a gastrointestinal disorder, get in touch today. There’s no referral necessary, and our GI specialists are here to help.
Remember, colon cancer screenings save lives. Call Charleston GI today to schedule your colonoscopy!
More Helpful Gastrointestinal Blogs
- WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST GASTROENTEROLOGY APPOINTMENT
- WHO SHOULD SCHEDULE A COLONOSCOPY?
- WHAT CAN I EAT AFTER A COLONOSCOPY?
- HOW LONG DOES A COLONOSCOPY PROCEDURE TAKE?
- WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT A COLONOSCOPY
- WHAT GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS CAN A COLONOSCOPY DETECT?
