You Wore Bell Bottoms, Listened to Disco and Did the Hustle . . . A Colonoscopy Should Be A Cakewalk

It’s normal to be uncomfortable at the thought of a colonoscopy. But staying healthy is nothing to be squeamish about, and a colonoscopy is key in diagnosing and even preventing colorectal cancer - which is the third most common cancer in the United States – and, if caught early, one of the most curable.

So when should you have your first colonoscopy?

According to the American Cancer Society, healthy people with an average risk should have a colonoscopy every 10 years, beginning at age 50. Those with an added risk, such as a close relative with colon disease, should begin having regular colonoscopies even sooner.

What happens during a colonoscopy?

During a colonoscopy, your doctor uses a colonoscope to visualize the entire length of your colon from the inside, making it possible to find small growths of tissue – called polyps – that can lead to cancer. A colonoscope is a thin (about the thickness of a finger), flexible, hollow, lighted tube that has a tiny video camera attached. As tiny amounts of air are puffed into the colon to keep it open, the colonoscope is able to send pictures to a screen for the doctor to view. The exam itself takes about 30 minutes. Patients are usually given medicine to help them relax and sleep during the procedure.

Are there things I can do to help prevent colorectal cancer?

Yes. Recent research suggests that a high fiber, low-fat diet plays a role in prevention as fiber helps move waste through the colon and may even protect cells in the lining of the colon from developing into polyps. An average adult should consume at least 25 to 35 grams of fiber daily, equal to about five half-cup servings of fruits and vegetables. Staying active and drinking at least eight full glasses of non-caffeinated fluid daily also is good for digestive health.

Talk to your doctor about the best time to schedule a colonoscopy, or contact EndoLabs at Porter at 219.548.9990 for more information.