Most people think colonoscopies only come necessary once symptoms have come on. If you don’t have any abdominal pain, rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits, you don’t think you need one. But the real benefit of a colonoscopy is that it can bring problems to light early enough for you to see them. The colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for assessment of the Los Angeles colon as it allows a gastroenterologist to evaluate the entire lining of the large intestine and remove precancerous polyps in the same procedure. That’s why the test can not only identify colorectal cancer but also prevent it from developing in the first place.
Here are five reasons your doctor will recommend a colonoscopy if they find you perfectly healthy.
Colorectal Cancer Is Often Detected Without Symptoms
One of the biggest myths about colorectal cancer is that it always has pretty obvious warning signs.
Colorectal cancer is often not detectable in the early stages. And so if symptoms like rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits are present when they go on, the disease may be more advanced.
A screening colonoscopy will help doctors to spot abnormal tissue and provide early diagnosis. Cancer at earlier stages is treated more effectively and has improved overall results.
Colon Polyps Can Be Removed Before They Become Cancerous
Most colorectal cancers begin with small growths called polyps in the lining of the colon. Not all polyps will develop cancer, but some can develop cancer over time.
Unlike many other cancer screening tests that are based on disease and cancer diagnosis, colonoscopy allows your doctor to remove several polyps simultaneously.
Cutting off precancerous growths at a time when they may become colorectal cancer in the future is the case.
Screening Is a Good Thing for All Ages
If you’ve never had symptoms and you don’t have family history with colorectal cancer, routine screening is important for preventive health and it’s more likely to help as you get older.
On average, colorectal cancer screenings are recommended for adults at age 45. Your doctor will then recommend a screening schedule based on your general health and past screening results.
People with certain risk factors may be required to start screening even earlier or to undergo colonoscopy more often.
Your Personal Medical History Is Only a Few of the Factors Your Doctor Would Consider
Your personal medical history is only a few of the factors your doctor would consider in terms of the risk.
A family history of colorectal cancer, advanced polyps, inflammatory bowel disease or inherited genetic conditions can greatly increase your lifetime risk.
As more vulnerable individuals may develop colorectal cancer at an earlier age, doctors often recommend early screening or shorter periods between colonoscopies.
You can be able to get the recommended screening schedule if you talk about your family history during your appointment.
Colonoscopies Can Also Diagnose Other Digestive Problems
Colonoscopies are preventive screenings but also diagnostic tools.
If you have rectal bleeding, unexplained anemia, chronic diarrhea, severe abdominal pain and other lower gastrointestinal symptoms, a colonoscopy is recommended by your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
The examination can help you identify inflammatory bowel disease, diverticular disease, polyps, colorectal cancer and many other digestive issues.
Don’t Wait for Symptoms to Protect Your Health
Many serious digestive problems are slow to develop and may not be seen until they are worse.
When you do have a colonoscopy, which is recommended, your doctor will be able to get a sense of how healthy your colon is and identify problems early, in order to prevent further problems through the removal of precancerous polyps.
If you are 45 or older, have a family history of colorectal cancer, and have digestive symptoms that are worrying you, a gastroenterologist will be able to know if you’re ready for a colonoscopy and it is in your best interest to have a colonoscopy.
Preventive screening is still the best way to prevent colorectal cancer and improve outcomes with early detection.
