Importance of Colonoscopy Q&A

A colonoscopy is a procedure that examines all of your large intestines. A thin flexible tube with a light and camera attached, called a colonoscope, is used to identify any issues like ulcers, inflamed tissues, polyps, or even colorectal cancer.

There are many important reasons to get a colonoscopy. This procedure can help figure out the cause of any symptoms of gastrointestinal issues, and it can screen for colorectal cancer. In both of these cases, it’s extremely beneficial since it can help prevent the worsening of some of these health issues.

The root of your gastrointestinal symptoms

A colonoscopy can get to the bottom of any gastrointestinal issues you may be having. You should get a colonoscopy if you have symptoms that include:

• Chronic diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding
• Abdominal pain

A colonoscopy can also be helpful if you’ve been experiencing noticeable changes in your bowel habits.

Screening for colorectal cancer

In 2021, the United States Preventive Service Task Force lowered the recommended age for colonoscopies from 50 to 45 due to the jump in cases in those under the age of 50. You may not always have symptoms of colorectal cancer which is why screening for it is important.

Colonoscopies are one of the few ways to test for colon cancer. Your provider will look for polyps in your colon and remove them so they can’t grow and become cancerous. It’s estimated that about 90% of polyps or tumors can be found during these screenings.

If you are over the age of 50, have gastrointestinal symptoms, or have a history of polyps, our team at Digestive Disease Care wants you to take the next steps toward getting that colonoscopy. It could save your life.

You can contact us by calling one of our many offices in the state of New York or by booking an appointment online to set up a consultation or to find out if you’re a good candidate for our direct access colonoscopy procedure. We have convenient locations to serve you in Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Forest Hills NY, Jamaica NY, Jericho NY, Lake Success NY, Melville NY, Mineola NY and New Hyde Park NY.