What is a colonoscopy?
The colonoscopy procedure at Century GI involves one of our experienced physicians using a special tool called a colonoscope to examine the inside of your colon. It’s a routine procedure that is used primarily to check your colon for any abnormalities, to screen for colorectal cancer, and to manage certain digestive treatments. At Century GI, we offer a full range of diagnostic tests, which includes colonoscopy, in a comfortable setting with knowledgeable doctors. We serve patients with every kind of digestive concern, from routine colon cancer screening to management of complex digestive diseases.
What is a colonoscopy used to diagnose?
You may be recommended to visit a colonoscopy doctor if you reach a certain age and are due for regular colon cancer screenings. Speak with one of our knowledgeable colon cancer physicians if you are unsure whether you should have regular colon cancer screenings. In other cases, a colonoscopy at Century GI might be recommended if you are experiencing symptoms of one of the following digestive issues:
- Abdominal pain
- Ulcerative colitis and proctitis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Gallbladder/pancreatic disease
What happens during a colonoscopy?
Before your colonoscopy at Century GI, you’ll be asked to go on a clear liquid diet for the day prior to the procedure and leading up to the procedure. You will be prescribed a laxative drink for your colonoscopy as well as instructions on how to use the laxative to clean your colon. Because the colon must be entirely clear for your doctor to inspect it, it’s critical that you follow your diet and laxative instructions carefully before the appointment. In recent research, “split dosing” of your colonoscopy drink has shown to provide clearer results. Splitting the dose involves taking half of your laxative in the evening prior to the procedure and the other half in the morning the day of your procedure. This requires waking up very early. Talk to your Gotham Gastroenterologist to learn more about this option.
What to Eat Before Colonoscopy
Speak with your Century GI colonoscopy doctor prior to your procedure for a complete list of what to eat and not eat before your colonoscopy. Your doctor will provide you with a laxative drink and give you detailed instructions on when to drink it before your exam.
What to Eat After Colonoscopy
After a colonoscopy, your digestive system may be more sensitive than usual since you have been fasting and altering your diet before the exam. Choosing foods that are easier to digest in the days following your exam will help you to avoid an upset stomach. Talk to your Century GI doctor to learn more about specific foods you should consume and what to avoid after your colonoscopy.
How often should I have a colonoscopy?
For most adults patients the recommended age is 50 years old. African Americans are recommended to begin screening earlier, at age 45. Recently the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommended beginning colon cancer screening at age 45 for all patients of average risk. However, not all insurance companies support this guideline. Patients at higher risk such as those with a family history of colon cancer, family history of polyps, or personal history of Inflammatory bowel disease of the colon need to start sooner. If your doctor finds an adenoma (pre-cancerous tumor) or cancer, you’ll need to follow up more regularly to keep an eye on your colon health. However, if you do not show signs of either of these or have any other risk factors for colorectal cancer, you will likely only need to have a colonoscopy every 5 to 10 years. Talk to one of our gastroenterologists to learn when you should have your colonoscopy.
What are the benefits of having a colonoscopy?
Visiting Century GIfor your colonoscopy not only helps you to catch colon cancer or precancerous polyps and other digestive health conditions; it can also keep you informed about your digestive health. Additionally, you can expect the following benefits when visiting Century GI for a colonoscopy:
