While a colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colon cancer detection, the procedure has earned some level of notoriety due to its invasive nature and the extensive preparation it entails. Thus, people are searching for noninvasive and convenient alternatives, among which is the fecal occult blood test (FOBT). Here’s the information you need to get
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Colonoscopy Alternative Tests That Are Effective
Colonoscopy is a procedure that involves introducing a thin, flexible, lighted instrument into the rectum to examine the large intestine (colon) for abnormalities. It is the gold standard for the detection of the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States—colon cancer. Nonetheless, even with the life-saving benefits of a colonoscopy, many people
Read MoreMost Common Gastroenterology Procedures
If you’re manifesting symptoms of a digestive condition that requires specialized care (e.g., persistent abdominal pain and cramping, weight loss, poor appetite, and diarrhea), your primary care physician will likely refer you to a gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist (GI doctor) is a medical professional who has advanced training in the diagnoses, treatment, and prevention of all
Read MoreThings to Ask a Colonoscopy Doctor
If your gastroenterologist told you that you need to get a colonoscopy, it is natural to want to learn more about the procedure, such as its risks and what to expect during and after it. Here are some of the questions you might want to consider asking your doctor about colonoscopy. What Is a Colonoscopy?
Read MoreUnderstanding Endoscopy and Colonoscopy
A gastroenterologist may recommend an endoscopy or colonoscopy to investigate your digestive symptoms, diagnose, and treat your condition. An endoscopy and colonoscopy are often performed together. Both are minimally invasive procedures that use highly advanced tools to allow the doctor to see into your gastrointestinal tract. Endoscopy and colonoscopy both use a thin, flexible tube
Read MoreColonoscopy: The Procedure and How to Prep
Colon cancer is a silent and deadly disease. It usually starts when harmless groups of cells known as polyps form inside the colon and turn cancerous. Many patients do not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the disease, highlighting the importance of early and regular screenings via colonoscopies. Colonoscopy is considered the gold
Read MoreYour First Appointment with a Gastroenterologist: What to Expect
Gastroenterologists are internists or doctors trained in internal medicine who specialize in problems concerning your digestive tract. Some of the most common conditions they deal with are diarrhea, constipation, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), and ulcers. You may consider consulting with a gastroenterologist if you have symptoms concerning any digestive system structure between the esophagus and rectum.
Read MoreCommon Signs and Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Disorders
The digestive system is one of the body’s most delicate parts, but it’s easy to neglect it and take it for granted. You might have symptoms that you think are normal for your body, but some of those symptoms might be common signs of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Let’s talk about some of the common signs
Read MoreMy doctor found a colon polyp. When do I need to repeat a colonoscopy?
A colon polyp may be found during a routine colonoscopy procedure. Polyps are abnormal growths on the inside lining of the colon. They vary in size and shape and usually cause no symptoms. A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used most often to screen for colon cancer and to identify and correct bleeding problems
Read MoreAlternatives to Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is by far the gold standard in colon and colorectal cancer screening. Colonoscopy with polyp removal decreases mortality from colon cancer by roughly 53 percent. Colonoscopies prevent the development of cancer by removal of polyps that could become cancerous. It is the only screening that actually prevents the disease it is attempting to
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