How a colonoscopy from your gastroenterologists in Stockbridge, and Locust Grove, GA, can protect your health
It’s easy to overlook having a colonoscopy, but the truth is, it’s one of the most important things you can do to prevent colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer-related cause of death in the United States.
The gastroenterologists at Southern Gastroenterology Specialists provide a wide range of GI services, including colonoscopies, to protect your health. They have two convenient office locations in Stockbridge, and Locust Grove, GA, to help you.
So, when should you get a colonoscopy? You should have your first colonoscopy by the time you are 50 years old. You should have additional colonoscopies every few years after that.
You should also get a colonoscopy if you are experiencing:
- Bleeding in your rectum
- Blood in your stool
- Chronic diarrhea
- Chronic constipation
- Frequent abdominal pain
During the 45-minute procedure, your gastroenterologist will use a colonoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera attached to one end.
Your gastroenterologist will insert the colonoscope into your rectum and guide it up into your colon. The camera lets your gastroenterologist examine your colon and remove polyps or tissue samples for a biopsy to determine if the tissue is benign, abnormal, or cancerous.
Plan on spending 2 to 3 hours in recovery, due to sedation. Because you are sedated, you will also need to bring someone with you to the appointment who can drive you home afterward.
Getting a colonoscopy is an important way to safeguard your health and prevent colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy can identify colorectal cancer in its early stages, when it is the most treatable. Getting a colonoscopy can potentially save your life.
To learn more about when to have a colonoscopy and how it can protect your health, call the gastroenterologists at Southern Gastroenterology Specialists. You can reach them in both the Stockbridge and Locust Grove, GA, locations by calling (770) 692-0100, so call today.