Why would you be referred for a colonoscopy?

Why would you be referred for a colonoscopy?

Reasons to have a colonoscopy A colonoscopy can be used to look for cancer of the colon (bowel cancer) or colon polyps, which are growths on the lining of the colon that can sometimes be cancerous or may grow to be cancerous.

Can I self refer for a colonoscopy?

Self-referral for colonoscopy is appropriate for: Age-appropriate colon cancer screening (age 50 or older) Polyp found on flexible sigmoidoscopy (limited scope focused on the left side of the colon)

Why would you be referred to a gastroenterologist?

You should see a gastroenterologist if you have any symptoms of a digestive health disorder or if you need a colon cancer screening. Often, seeing a gastroenterologist leads to more accurate detection of polyps and cancer, fewer complications from procedures and less time spent in the hospital.

What happens on first visit to gastroenterologist?

The gastroenterologist will look at you to try to find the cause of your symptoms. You’ll lie on the exam table and relax. Your doctor will press down on the skin around your belly. They’ll listen for odd bowel sounds and feel for any masses or tenderness.

What is the treatment if polyps are cancerous?

In most cases, only a polypectomy and/or a local excision is needed to treat this stage of cancer. A polypectomy or local excision involves removing the polyp in its entirety during a colonoscopy. Additional treatment may be needed if a polyp or tumor is too big to be removed through local excision.

Is stool test as good as colonoscopy?

The DNA stool test is less sensitive than colonoscopy at detecting precancerous polyps. If abnormalities are found, additional tests might be needed. The tests can suggest an abnormality when none is present (false-positive result).

Why does my stomach hurt so bad after colonoscopy?

You may feel some cramping or bloating because of the air introduced into the colon during the examination. This should disappear quickly with the passage of gas. Diet: Generally, you should be able to eat normally after the colonoscopy.