People don’t usually talk about colon cancer screenings or colonoscopies, but the truth is, they can save your life. A colon cancer screening is an excellent way to identify colon cancer early when it is easily treatable. The gastroenterologists at Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada offer a wide range of gastrointestinal services, including colon cancer screenings and colonoscopies. They have three convenient office locations in Las Vegas, and Henderson, NV, to help you.
What You Need To Know About Colon Cancer Screenings and Colonoscopies
Did you know that colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States? Unfortunately, it’s true, according to the American Cancer Society. You can do something about it by having a colon cancer screening, including a colonoscopy.
You should have your first colon cancer screening including a colonoscopy by the time you are 45 years old. There are other conditions that may indicate you need a colon cancer screening. You should have a colonoscopy if you are experiencing:
- Blood in your stool
- Bleeding from your rectum
- Chronic pain in your abdomen
- Abnormal growths and intestinal polyps
- Chronic constipation or recurrent diarrhea
A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure, performed while you are under sedation. You will need to bring someone with you who can drive you home afterward. The actual procedure takes about 45 minutes, but plan on spending 2 to 3 hours in the office, due to recovery from the sedation.
Before your procedure, you will be placed on a liquid diet, and take special laxatives to clean out your colon. During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube is inserted into your rectum and guided up into your colon. The tube has a tiny camera on one end, which allows your doctor to examine your colon and remove polyps or abnormal tissue. The tissue may be sent off for a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present.
Want To Know More?
To find out more about the importance of colon cancer screenings and having a colonoscopy, talk with an expert. Call the gastroenterologists at Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada. You can reach them in any of their three office locations in Las Vegas, and Henderson, NV, by calling (702) 483-4483, so call today.