Colonoscopy: Check Undetecd Signs That is Invisible On Your Own

     Colon cancer is a serious threat that we cannot detect on our own, as it is not visible to the naked eye at all times. If left untreated, a tumor or cancer may slowly grow in the colon without us knowing. The danger of colon cancer is that it has a high chance of spreading to the lymph nodes. Therefore, a colonoscopy is necessary for detection.

Colonoscopy

     Colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure using a special camera, a small, long tube inserted through the rectum into the colon. This allows the doctor to see detailed views of both the large intestine and the end of the small intestine. The procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Why is Colonoscopy Important?

     The current standard for colon cancer screening is a colonoscopy. Its advantage is that it allows the doctor to inspect the inside of the colon without surgery, by inserting a camera the size of a pinky finger through the rectum. It can detect abnormalities starting from the early stages. If any abnormalities are found, the doctor can use instruments to remove tumors or early-stage cancer via the colonoscopy.

The Recommendations For Colonoscopy

     Colon cancer is becoming increasingly common. It ranks third in men and fifth in women. Currently, guidelines recommend that individuals begin colonoscopy screening at the age of 50, even without symptoms, since this is the age group where colon cancer is more frequently detected, according to statistics.

     However, if there is a family history of colon cancer or if abnormal symptoms are present—such as irregular bowel movements, alternating constipation and diarrhea, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or iron-deficiency anemia—a screening may be necessary before age 50.

When Should You Have a Colonoscopy?

• At age 50 or older.
• If you have a family member who has had colon cancer, it’s recommended to begin screening 10 years before the age at which the relative was diagnosed. For example, if a family member was diagnosed at age 55, you should get screened at age 45.
• If you have symptoms of colon cancer, such as alternating constipation and diarrhea, sudden constipation in older adults, chronic abdominal pain, intestinal obstruction, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or iron-deficiency anemia without any other cause.

The Procedure of Colonoscopy

Preparations Before and After the Procedure

• Before the Procedure: One day before the procedure, you should eat soft foods like porridge or rice soup, and avoid vegetables, fruits, supplements, blood-building medications, and anti-diarrheal medications. Sometimes, the doctor may recommend a laxative the night before or a bowel cleansing medication in the morning. On the day of the procedure, you should refrain from eating at least 6 hours beforehand.
• During the Procedure: The doctor will administer sedatives to prevent any discomfort during the procedure.
• After the Procedure: You should rest at the hospital for about 2-3 hours to recover from the sedatives. It’s important to take your time getting up, as there may be slight bloating from the air inserted into the colon during the examination, which will dissipate in a few minutes. Generally, you can resume eating and your normal activities after the procedure.

A colonoscopy should be performed starting at age 50, even without symptoms. If there is a family history of colon cancer, you need to get screened earlier, without waiting until age 50.