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Most of these people will need to start having colorectal screening (colonoscopy or stool-based testing) at an earlier age (depending on how old they were when they got the radiation). Screening often begins 10 years after the radiation was given or at age 35, whichever comes last.
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A colonoscopy (koe-lun-OS-kuh-pee) is an exam used to look for changes — such as swollen, irritated tissues, polyps or cancer — in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the entir...
Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to: 1. Investigate intestinal signs and symptoms.A colonoscopy can help your doctor explore possible causes of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea and other intestinal problems. 2. Screen for colon cancer.If you're age 45 or older and at average risk of colon cancer — you have no colon cancer ri...
A colonoscopy poses few risks. Rarely, complications of a colonoscopy may include: 1. A reaction to the sedative used during the exam 2. Bleeding from the site where a tissue sample (biopsy) was taken or a polyp or other abnormal tissue was removed 3. A tear in the colon or rectum wall (perforation) After discussing the risks of colonoscopy with yo...
Before a colonoscopy, you'll need to clean out (empty) your colon. Any residue in your colon may make it difficult to get a good view of your colon and rectum during the exam. To empty your colon, your doctor may ask you to: 1. Follow a special diet the day before the exam.Typically, you won't be able to eat solid food the day before the exam. Drin...
During the procedure
During a colonoscopy, you'll wear a gown, but likely nothing else. Sedation or anesthesia is usually recommended. In most cases, the sedative is combined with pain medication given directly into your blood stream (intravenously) to lessen any discomfort. You'll begin the exam lying on your side on the exam table, usually with your knees drawn toward your chest. The doctor will insert a colonoscope into your rectum. The scope — which is long enough to reach the entire length of your colon — co...
After the procedure
After the exam, it takes about an hour to begin to recover from the sedative. You'll need someone to take you home because it can take up to a day for the full effects of the sedative to wear off. Don't drive or make important decisions or go back to work for the rest of the day. You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the exam, as you clear the air from your colon. Walking may help relieve any discomfort. You may also notice a small amount of blood with your first bowel moveme...
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Mar 1, 2024 · When it comes to a colonoscopy, age matters. If you’re at average risk, you should get your first one at age 45 to screen for colorectal cancer.
Apr 29, 2022 · A colonoscopy can be performed as a screening for colorectal cancer and other problems. The screening can help your doctor: look for signs of cancers and other problems. explore the cause of...
- Brian Krans
Jun 12, 2024 · Most people should begin screening for colorectal cancer soon after turning 45, then continue getting screened at regular intervals. However, you may need to be tested earlier than 45, or more often than other people, if you have: Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Key Points for Practice. • Start CRC screening at 50 years of age, but consider offering it at 45 years of age for average-risk patients. • CRC screening beyond age 75 should be...
Jul 21, 2024 · Experts recommend colon cancer screening for all adults starting at age 45, with repeat screenings at least every 10 years. People who have a higher risk of developing colon cancer should get a colonoscopy earlier and more often.
