It may also be used to help find the cause of unexplained changes in bowel habits or abdominal pain. During a visit to a colonoscopy clinic for this procedure, a long, flexible tube equipped with a camera is inserted into the rectum through the anus.
The camera allows your doctor to view the entire length of your large intestine. If abnormal growths are found, they can often be removed during the procedure.
A colonoscopy usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. You will be given sedatives to help you relax during the procedure.
Most people report little or no discomfort during a colonoscopy. You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure because of the sedatives used.
Recovery from a colonoscopy is usually quick and uneventful. You should be able to return to work and other normal activities the day after the procedure.
Do I Need a Colonoscopy if I have no Symptoms?
It should be noted that a colonoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to closely examine the lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. A colonoscopy can help detect changes or abnormalities in the colon or rectum, which may be precancerous or cancerous.
It can also be used to diagnose other conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or ulcerative colitis.
In most cases, a colonoscopy is performed as a preventive measure for people at increased risk of colon cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease.
During a colonoscopy, your doctor may remove small growths called polyps from your colon. Polyps are usually benign (noncancerous), but they can become cancerous over time. Removing polyps during a colonoscopy can help prevent colon cancer.
Most people ask; do I still need to visit a colonoscopy clinic even if I don’t have symptoms? The truth is that if you are at increased risk of colon cancer, you should have a colonoscopy even if you don’t have any symptoms.
If you are 50 years or older and have no other risk factors for colon cancer, your doctor may recommend that you have a colonoscopy every ten years. If you have risk factors for colon cancer, you may need to have a colonoscopy more frequently.
Talk to your doctor about how often you should have a colonoscopy based on your individual risk factors. It’s important to note that a colonoscopy is not the only test used to screen for colon cancer.
Other tests, such as a stool test or a CT colonography, may also be used. Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you based on your individual risk factors.
What are the Signs that you should have a Colonoscopy?
There are instances when you may feel that you need a colonoscopy but aren’t so sure if it is right for you. This best explains why most people ask; which signs indicate that I should have a colonoscopy?
Now, there are a few factors that may hint that you should visit a colonoscopy clinic. To begin with, as mentioned earlier, if you’re at an increased risk for colorectal cancer, you may need to have the procedure more frequently. There are a few signs that indicate it’s time to schedule a colonoscopy.
For starters, if you’re experiencing bloody stool or rectal bleeding, it’s time to see a doctor. Bloody stool is usually indicative of hemorrhoids, but it can also be a sign of colorectal cancer.
Rectal bleeding can also be caused by anal fissures or fistulas, but it’s always best to get checked out by a medical professional to rule out anything serious.
Other signs that you may need a colonoscopy include persistent gastrointestinal issues like constipation, diarrhea, or cramping; changes in your stool; and unintended weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor so they can determine if a colonoscopy is necessary.
What happens if you don’t do a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is an important preventative measure when it comes to colon cancer. The earlier colon cancer is caught, the better the chances are for survival and successful treatment.
This makes colonoscopies vital, as they provide the opportunity to detect polyps- which may eventually turn into cancer if left unchecked.
Through the removal of these polyps during a colonoscopy, the likelihood of them developing into cancer is significantly reduced.
Furthermore, colonoscopies help catch colon cancer in its earliest stages, when it is most treatable. Therefore, it is clear that individuals should not forego this potentially lifesaving procedure.
How can I find the Best Clinic for Colonoscopy in Singapore?
Now that you understand how beneficial visiting a colonoscopy clinic is, you’re probably, wondering how you can find the best clinic for this procedure. The answer below may help.
If you are looking for the best clinic for colonoscopy in Singapore, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to find a clinic that has experience providing this procedure.
Make sure to ask about the number of procedures the colonoscopy clinic has performed and their success rate. Second, it is important to find a clinic that uses the latest technology.
This ensures that the procedure is performed safely and effectively. Finally, make sure to ask about the cost of the procedure and whether or not insurance will cover it. By keeping these factors in mind, you can be sure to find the best clinic for colonoscopy in Singapore.
The Bottom Line
It is clear that colonoscopies are important screenings that can help to catch colon cancer in its early stages. If you are experiencing any symptoms that may indicate the need for a colonoscopy, or if you are at an increased risk for colorectal cancer, make sure to schedule an appointment with your doctor.
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