When To See Your New Lenox Gastroenterologist For A Colonoscopy

When are you due for a colonoscopy with your gastroenterologist? Your gastroenterologist at the Digestive Disease Consultant of Kankakee, SC, in Bourbonnais and New Lenox, IL, might request a colonoscopy to handle your bowel problems.

What is a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows your doctor to look at your colon using a colonoscope. During this procedure, they check for abnormalities in the lining of your colon.

If your Bourbonnais and New Lenox, IL, gastroenterologist at the Digestive Disease Consultant of Kankakee, SC, identifies abnormal tissue, they'll take a piece for further testing. They could also remove abnormal growths and control any possible bleeding that occurs during the procedure. You might get a mild sedative for your colonoscopy to reduce discomfort.

To prepare for your colonoscopy, your gastroenterologist might tell you to get off specific medication. You would need to follow a strict diet during the days leading up to your colonoscopy. The diet cleanses your bowel for a smooth procedure.

Routine Colorectal Cancer Screening

The CDC recommends that you begin routine colorectal cancer screening, which includes colonoscopy, once you turn 50. Colon cancer is treatable when caught early and this lifestyle change is essential.

Most colon cancers develop from polyps. During your colonoscopy, your gastroenterologist at Digestive Disease Consultant of Kankakee, SC, at Bourbonnais and New Lenox, IL, can identify aberrant polyps for further screening.

Your doctor can also remove abnormal growths they identify in your colon during your colonoscopy before they metastasize.

When You Get Symptoms

If you're getting symptoms that indicate that something might be wrong with your bowel, then it might be time to see your gastroenterologist. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor might recommend a colonoscopy. This procedure will help your doctor identify the cause of your symptoms and prescribe treatment.

Symptoms that tell you to contact your doctor:

• Bloody stool
• Rectal bleeding
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Cramps
• Diarrhea

Schedule an appointment with your doctors at Digestive Disease Consultant of Kankakee, SC, at Bourbonnais and New Lenox, IL, if you're having these symptoms or due for your next colonoscopy by calling (815) 937-5200.