A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows your Lima, Ohio doctor to look inside your large intestine (colon) and rectum. It’s used to find polyps (abnormal growths), cancer, and other problems in the colon and rectum. Most people may wonder why visiting a center for colonoscopy in Lima is essential, but there are some good reasons you may want to have one. Here are some of them.
Identifying Rectal Bleeding
One of the most common reasons for getting a colonoscopy is to identify rectal bleeding. Rectal bleeding can be caused by various things, including haemorrhoids, anal fissures, colorectal cancer, and polyps. If your doctor suspects that you’re experiencing rectal bleeding, they may order a colonoscopy to determine the cause.
Detects Colon Inflammation
Inflammation could result from something as simple as eating a food you’re allergic to, but it could also be a sign of a more severe problem, like colitis or Crohn’s disease. A colonoscopy can help your doctor determine the cause of your colon inflammation and start treatment if necessary.
Detects Polyps Early
Another common reason for getting a colonoscopy is to detect colon inflammation, also known as colitis. Colitis can be caused by various things, including infection, medication side effects, and autoimmune diseases. If your doctor suspects that you have colitis, they may order a colonoscopy to rule out other causes.
Polyps are small, abnormal growths that can develop in the colon or rectum. Most polyps are benign (noncancerous), but some polyps can develop into cancer. It’s vital to detect and remove polyps because they can eventually turn into cancer if they’re left untreated.
Detects Colon Cancer
The number one reason people get a colonoscopy is to detect colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in the United States. It’s crucial to see it early because early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. A colonoscopy is the best way to detect colorectal cancer early when it’s most treatable.
Spot Hernias
A colonoscopy can also spot hernias. A hernia is a hole or weakness in the muscle wall of the abdomen. Hernias can allow organs, such as the intestine, to push through the muscle and cause pain, swelling, and other problems. If your doctor suspects you have a hernia, they may order a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Constipation
A colonoscopy can also be used to diagnose constipation. Constipation is a condition that causes you to have trouble passing stool, resulting in hard, dry, and often painful stools. If your doctor suspects you have constipation, they may order a colonoscopy to rule out other causes.
Observation of the Inner Lining of the Colon
A colonoscopy can also help in observation purposes. Your doctor may order a colonoscopy to get a better look at the inner lining of your colon for any abnormalities. It can help them determine if you have a condition like Crohn’s disease or colitis.
There are many reasons why you may want to have a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy can help your doctor identify rectal bleeding, detect colon inflammation, detect polyps early, and diagnose colorectal cancer. It can also be used for observation purposes or to rule out other causes of constipation. If you’re experiencing any symptoms that could be related to the colon or rectum, talk to your internal medicine about getting a colonoscopy.
