A colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools doctors use to evaluate the health of your colon.
It’s a quick test that helps your gastroenterologist see the lining of your large intestine. They use a thin, flexible tube with a camera to do this. Colonoscopies are known for colon cancer screening, but there are a number of diseases that can be detected by a colonoscopy.
A colonoscopy does more than take a look inside your colon. It also allows your doctor to remove tissue and take samples for biopsy when needed. Some of the most common conditions a colonoscopy can help detect or keep an eye on include:
One of the most frequent findings during a colonoscopy is a colon polyp or small growth on the inner lining of the colon. Not all polyps are harmful. In fact, many are non-cancerous and may never cause symptoms or problems.
The most common types of non-cancerous polyps include:
Some polyps have the potential to turn into cancer over time if left untreated. For this reason, it is especially important to detect and remove them early.
Often, polyps don’t cause symptoms. Therefore, having a screening colonoscopy can catch them before they become malignant, making it the most effective way to prevent colon cancer.
Colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. It can detect cancer at an early stage, often before any symptoms develop. During the exam, your doctor may see suspicious growths, ulcerated areas, or bleeding sites. A biopsy can be taken right away for further testing.
When found early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable and sometimes even curable. That’s why routine screening is recommended starting at age 45 for most adults, or earlier for those with risk factors.
Inflammatory bowel disease includes:
If you’ve had symptoms like chronic diarrhea, rectal bleeding, or abdominal pain, your doctor may use a colonoscopy to:
Diverticulosis refers to small pouches, or diverticula, that form in the wall of the colon. These pouches often develop as you age and are usually harmless. They can become inflamed or infected, causing a condition called diverticulitis. Colonoscopy is usually not performed during active diverticulitis, but it can be used to detect other problems, like:
Sometimes, colonoscopy is used to find the cause of persistent or unexplained digestive symptoms, such as:
The test can help rule out serious conditions and identify sources of bleeding, narrowing, inflammation, or abnormal tissue that may not be visible through imaging alone.
A colonoscopy does more than screen for cancer. It gives doctors a detailed view of your colon’s health and helps identify a range of conditions early, when they’re most manageable. Having the procedure for routine screening or to investigate symptoms is an important step toward protecting your digestive health.
Want to know more about what diseases can be detected by a colonoscopy? Schedule an appointment to talk with a gastroenterologist!
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