Interested In A Colonoscopy?

If you have been researching colonoscopies that usually means that you are concerned about colorectal cancers, either because of your age or family history, or any other reason. Below will be outlined some important things to know regarding a colonoscopy, but if you are interested in learning more you can reach out directly to your local gastroenterologist in Plano, TX, Dr. Sindhu Abraham.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancers are those that appear in the colon, which is the lowest portion of the gastrointestinal tract. There is an increased risk of developing colon cancer if you have a family history of the condition and if you are over 45 years of age. It affects both men and women and it's one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in the United States.

But it is also one of the most treatable types of cancer if caught in time, and that's why a colonoscopy is so very important.

Signs and Symptoms

There are typically no symptoms for colon cancer, during these early stages you may experience nothing out of the ordinary even though the polyps that could potentially become cancerous are already present in the colon.

When the symptoms do begin to manifest you could experience bowel habit changes, including constipation and diarrhea that lasts more than four weeks, incomplete evacuation, and blood in your stool, along with fatigue and unexplained weight loss. These are all signs of concern and you should seek help from your gastroenterologist if you experience any of them.

Colonoscopy in Plano, TX

But you should not wait for symptoms to arise, if you are age 45 most professionals recommend a colonoscopy every 10 years, although these figures can change depending on your health and family history.

During a colonoscopy, your doctor can detect and eliminate polyps before they become cancerous. Polyps are abnormal growths of tissue that can develop in the colon, and although not all of them will become cancerous the potential is there and they can be safely removed.

If you are concerned about colon cancer and want to know if a colonoscopy is recommended for you, you can schedule a consultation in Plano, TX, with Dr. Abraham by dialing (972) 867-0019.