A colonoscopy is a vital medical procedure used to examine the colon and rectum, providing essential insights into the health of the digestive tract. It’s a versatile tool that can diagnose and prevent various gastrointestinal conditions. Below, the best gastroenterologist doctor in Mukundapur has discussed what colonoscopy can detect and why this procedure is crucial for maintaining one’s digestive health.
What are the different conditions that colonoscopy can detect?
- Colorectal Cancer and Polyps: During the procedure, the gastroenterologist carefully examines the colon for any abnormal growths or tumours. Colorectal polyps, which are small growths on the lining of the colon, can be detected as well. Detecting and removing these polyps during a colonoscopy can prevent them from developing into cancer.
- Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD): According to a doctor of the best gastroenterology clinic in Mukundapur, colonoscopy is a critical tool for diagnosing and monitoring inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions can cause inflammation, ulcers, and other structural changes in the colon and rectum. Through a colonoscopy, doctors can assess the severity of the inflammation and monitor the progress of the disease, aiding in the development of an effective treatment plan.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Gastrointestinal bleeding can occur due to various reasons, such as ulcers, diverticular disease, or colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy allows the gastroenterologist to investigate the cause of gastrointestinal bleeding by directly visualizing the colon and identifying any abnormalities or sources of bleeding.
- Chronic Digestive Symptoms: Chronic symptoms like abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, and persistent diarrhoea or constipation may indicate underlying gastrointestinal issues. A colonoscopy can explore the cause of these symptoms, enabling doctors to provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
- Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis occurs when small pouches (diverticula) form in the lining of the colon. These pouches are usually harmless, but they can become infected or inflamed, causing diverticulitis. A colonoscopy can help detect diverticula and evaluate their condition, providing valuable information for managing and preventing complications.
- Anaemia and Iron Deficiency: Unexplained anaemia or iron deficiency can sometimes be linked to bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. A colonoscopy can identify the source of the bleeding, whether it’s due to ulcers, haemorrhoids, or other conditions affecting the colon or rectum.
- Evaluation of Previous Abnormal Tests: If previous diagnostic tests, such as a sigmoidoscopy or a CT colonography, have shown abnormalities or inconclusive results, a colonoscopy might be recommended for a more comprehensive and detailed examination of the colon.
If you have risk factors that warrant regular screening for colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal conditions, get your colonoscopy done by the best gastroenterologist doctor in Mukundapur.