What Can I Expect During an Initial Colonoscopy Screening?

Included among the most powerful tools for guarding against or catching colorectal cancer early are periodic colon and rectal screenings. Unfortunately, just over half of adults who are eligible have not had an initial colonoscopy screening. Per the American Cancer Society (ACS), adults who have an average chance of getting colon or rectal cancer should start undergoing routine screenings when they are 45 years old.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that millions of individuals in the U.S. are not having colorectal cancer screening tests as recommended, lessening the chance for early identification. To find out if you qualify for a colonoscopy screening, contact the team at Adult Gastroenterology Associates to book an appointment. Our knowledgeable GI doctors commonly perform colonoscopies for patients throughout the Tulsa, OK area.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a colorectal cancer assessment that is performed with a thin, bendable tube-shaped device fitted with a mini camera. This scope is introduced through the rectum and into the colon by an Adult Gastroenterology Associates GI specialist to scan for polyps (growths) or other irregularities that may exist. If abnormal tissue is found, it can be excised by way of the scope for pathological evaluation. Individuals are given a safe, quick-acting sedation medication before the screening procedure that will help them relax and undergo the procedure in comfort.

What is recovery like after a colonoscopy exam?

Once your initial colonoscopy is over and the anesthesia begins to wear off, our Tulsa, OK medical experts will go over any discoveries or the need for additional tests with you. Should we detect any condition that needs further analysis, our GI specialists will devise a comprehensive treatment plan personalized for your health needs. We recommend that you have a relative or friend escort you home after your colonoscopy. Once all impacts of the anesthesia have waned, you should find yourself able to get back to normal activities and nutritional consumption within 24 hours. At times, individuals report having minor aftereffects for the first few days, such as cramping, gassiness, and bloating. If you are affected by extreme pain, fever, or bleeding, please seek medical care right away.

How often should I have a colonoscopy procedure?

Doctors recommend that individuals having an average risk of developing colon or rectal cancer start to receive screenings at 45 years of age. Regular colorectal cancer assessments should happen every ten years until a person turns 75. Following age 75, every individual should speak with their GI practitioner about screening protocols suited to their healthcare requirements.

Why is it important to have routine colon cancer screenings?

While a colonoscopy can allow for the diagnosis of the initial stages of colorectal cancer, the process can also detect possible sources of other digestive concerns, such as hemorrhoids, chronic fluctuation in bowel habits (constipation and/or diarrhea), reasons for anorectal/abdominal pain, bleeding and anemia, and abrupt or unexplained weight loss. The exceptionally skilled gastrointestinal specialists at Adult Gastroenterology Associates use advanced technology and procedures to detect and treat a myriad of diseases affecting digestive health and wellness.

How can I book my first colonoscopy in Tulsa, OK?

Routine screenings for colon cancer are the optimal option for identifying this GI disease. If you are 45 or over and have an average risk of colon cancer, we recommend that you set up your initial colonoscopy at Adult Gastroenterology Associates as soon as you can. To reserve your visit with one of our Tulsa, OK gastroenterologists, reach out to our offices today.