Colonoscopy involves the examination of the large intestine or colon. A colonoscopy helps detect colon cancer and is recommended as a routine screening test for individuals over 50 or earlier if they have a family history of colon cancer. Colon cancer is slow-growing and often begins as a polyp or a small growth in the colon’s lining. The specialists at the Imperial Digestive Health Specialists PLLC can recommend a  colonoscopy to detect colon cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable, improving the chances of a successful outcome.

Below find a detailed explanation of the importance of colonoscopy when detecting and preventing colon cancer:

• Early detection of colon cancer: Colonoscopies are used to detect colon cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. Colon cancer often begins as a polyp or a small growth in the colon’s lining. These polyps can be detected and removed during a colonoscopy, preventing them from developing into cancer.
• Removal of polyps: A polyp detected during a colonoscopy can be removed during the same procedure. Removing polyps reduces the risk of them developing into cancer, and in some cases, it may prevent cancer from developing altogether.
• Prevention of colon cancer: Colonoscopies can prevent colon cancer by detecting and removing polyps early. Studies have shown that colonoscopies can reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 90 percent.
• Recommended for individuals over 50: Routine colonoscopy screenings are recommended for individuals over 50 or earlier if they have a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors. These screenings can detect colon cancer early or even prevent it from developing.
• Reduces the need for more invasive procedures: If colon cancer is detected early during a colonoscopy, it may be possible to remove it without the need for more invasive procedures like surgery. This can result in faster recovery times and fewer complications.
• Improves chances of successful treatment: Detecting colon cancer early with a colonoscopy can improve the chances of successful treatment. If colon cancer is detected early, it may be possible to treat it with surgery or other therapies, resulting in a better outcome for the patient.

After a colonoscopy, taking care of yourself as you recover from the procedure is recommended. Here are some things you should do:

• Follow your doctor’s instructions: Your doctor will provide specific instructions about what to do after the procedure. This may include what foods to eat, medications to take or avoid, and when to resume your regular activities. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.
• Rest and recover: Feeling a little tired or weak after a colonoscopy is normal, so be sure to rest and take it easy for the first 24 hours. Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or driving until you feel well.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking plenty of fluids after a colonoscopy can help flush the remaining air and any remaining sedatives or medications from your system. It can also help prevent dehydration, a common side effect of bowel preparation.

If you are over 50 or have other risk factors for colon cancer, talk to your doctor about scheduling a colonoscopy screening.