A colonoscopy examines the large intestines for anomalies using a miniature camera. It diagnoses various health issues, from colorectal cancer to gastrointestinal conditions. A colonoscopy Katy is critical for initiating timely interventions. This article explores the procedure and disorders it can diagnose.
How does colonoscopy work?
A colonoscopy employs an endoscope to visualize the inside of your large intestines. An endoscope is a flexible tube with a minute camera on one end. It provides images to identify problems in your large intestine.
How does colonoscopy work?
A colonoscopy employs an endoscope to visualize the inside of your large intestines. An endoscope is an elongated device with a minute camera. It generates detailed images to identify problems in your large intestine.
Your healthcare provider may request a colonoscopy for patients with certain risk factors. Some of the factors include:
- A family history of cancer
- Individuals over 45
- Risk of inflammatory bowel syndrome
- You had a biopsy during a previous colonoscopy
Why might you need a colonoscopy?
Unexplained abdominal discomfort
Many factors may trigger stomach discomfort. Some of them can have far-reaching implications.
Statistics show 5% of patients visiting the emergency room complain of abdominal discomfort. The location could indicate the cause of the stomach pain. Pain in the upper quadrant could be gallstones, hepatitis, or liver cancer.
Pain from below your belly could be a sign of colon cancer, irritable bowel syndrome, or a hernia. Your provider will determine if a colonoscopy is necessary after a physical examination and medical history evaluation.
Rectal bleeding and colonoscopy
Blood in your stool is not always a serious concern. It could be hemorrhoids, a condition where inflammation affects the blood vessels around the anus. Another possibility is a fissure characterized by minute cuts around the anal lining.
While those conditions are usually harmless, they may suggest other severe underlying problems. Colitis is one possibility. It is the inflammation of the large intestine, which causes abdominal pain and rectal bleeding.
Another possible reason for your rectal bleeding is a cancerous growth. It can affect people of any age, but it is more prevalent in individuals over 50.
You may confuse rectal bleeding from colon and rectal cancer with hemorrhoids. A colonoscopy is crucial for confirming your diagnosis when you notice bloody stools. Timely treatment can manage cancerous growth and avoid complications.
Unexplained weight loss
Unexplained weight loss refers to a considerable reduction in body weight that occurs without diet or lifestyle changes. Generally speaking, losing more than 5% of body weight in less than a year is considered unhealthy.
An unhealthy weight loss can indicate cancer, undiagnosed eating disorders, or diabetes. It may also suggest gastrointestinal problems like irritable bowel syndrome and gluten intolerance.
During the diagnosis, your provider will ask you questions about your symptoms. The information will determine if blood tests and X-rays are necessary. Your provider may request a colonoscopy if there are indications of gastrointestinal problems.
Large bowel obstructions
Obstructions prevent the large intestines from passing stool. As a result, it may cause stomach cramps, constipation, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Large intestines can occur due to a myriad of factors. Half of all cases are due to colon cancer. But congenital anomalies and surgical procedures can also cause a blockage. A colonoscopy diagnoses or rules out colon cancer and gastrointestinal problems.
To schedule a consultation, call Imperial Digestive Health Specialists PLLC or use the provided link to schedule an appointment today.
