Colonoscopy screening is considered the gold standard for identifying colorectal cancer in its earliest stages, yet far too many people postpone their screening or wait too long between screening exams. At Desert West Surgery, our team knows the critical importance of having regular screenings — and scheduling your screening at the start of the new year is a good way to avoid missing follow-up exams in the years to come.
Bleeding during bowel movements is a well-known symptom of colorectal cancer — so well-known that some people assume if there’s nonbleeding, there’s no reason to be concerned. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
The fact is, by the time bleeding occurs, there’s a good chance the cancer has already reached a more advanced stage. In its earlier stages — the stages when it’s most treatable — colorectal cancer typically causes no noticeable symptoms — and that’s why regular screening is so important.
It’s so important the American Cancer Society says everyone should begin regular screening by the age of 45. If you have risk factors for colorectal cancer — like a family history of the disease — we may recommend screening at an even younger age.
It would help if you weren’t screened once, either. Most people at average risk of colorectal cancer need a colonoscopy every 10 years, while those with increased risk should be screened more often — usually about once every five years. If you’re due for your screening, the new year is a great time to get up to date, and it also makes it easier to remember the next time you’re due.
Few people — if any — look forward to medical procedures, even something as straightforward and time-tested as a colorectal cancer screening. Interestingly, though, for many people, it’s not the screening that invokes anxiety but the preparation process.
If that’s you, we have some good news: Despite the negative hype, preparing for a colonoscopy isn’t nearly as nerve-racking as the urban legends would have you believe.
Yes, you do need to use a product—typically a drink—that clears out your intestines, and yes, you will go to the bathroom a lot while using that product. But with a little planning (like equipping your bathroom with books or other distractions), the preparation process won’t be as daunting as most people think.
Another important thing to know about preparation is ensuring your colonoscopy results are accurate and precise. Improper prep can leave stool behind, making it harder for your doctor to see polyps or other unusual tissue. Following all your prep directions is important for your exam, results, and long-term health.
One of the best things about colonoscopies is that the procedure itself is quick—about 30 minutes or so. It’s performed under sedation, allowing you to sleep throughout the process.
During your colonoscopy, your doctor inserts a long, thin, flexible scope called a colonoscopy. This scope is equipped with a bright light and a tiny camera capable of taking real-time videos and still images of the tissue lining your rectum and colon.
Your doctor advances the scope through your colon and slowly withdraws it, capturing images and viewing them in real time on a video monitor. If the doctor sees any abnormal tissue or fleshy growths called polyps, he uses a special device attached to the scope to remove it so it can be evaluated in a lab. Based on those results, we may recommend treatment or more frequent screening.
Afterward, you’ll go to a recovery area briefly before being discharged. Since colonoscopy uses sedation, you should plan to take the entire day off so you can nap afterward if you like. You’ll also need to fast beforehand, and eating small meals afterward is a good idea to avoid bloating or cramps.
Scheduling regular colonoscopies is one of the best things you can do for your health. If you’re overdue for your next screening, call Desert West Surgery and schedule a visit at the Las Vegas location nearest you.
