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How Can a Colonoscopy Improve My Health?

You've turned 45, and your primary care doctor has recommended that you start getting routine colonoscopies. You’ve heard of the hassle of prep and the slight discomfort following the procedure.

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How Can a Colonoscopy Improve My Health?

A Friendly Guide from Gastrodoxs in Houston

A colonoscopy might sound a bit scary, but it’s one of the best ways to protect your gut. This guide explains how a colonoscopy helps you stay healthy. We include quotes from Dr. Bharat Pothuri and show why many people in Houston choose Gastrodoxs.

Table of Contents

  1. What Is a Colonoscopy?
  2. Why Houston Trusts Gastrodoxs
  3. Long-Term Health Benefits
  4. Early Detection of Colon Cancer
  5. Colonoscopy and Digestive Health
  6. What It Can Reveal
  7. Why It Matters After Age 45
  8. Colonoscopy and Aging Well
  9. How It Finds Polyps and Lesions
  10. Long-Term Benefits of Regular Screenings
  11. Colonoscopy vs. Other Tests

1. What Is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test that lets your doctor see inside your colon. A flexible tube with a tiny camera shows live video on a screen. You’re mildly sedated during the test. The doctor can spot problems, remove small growths, or take tissue samples.

Dr. Bharat Pothuri says, "A colonoscopy is like a checkup for your colon. It catches issues before they become serious."

2. Why Houston Trusts Gastrodoxs

3. Long-Term Health Benefits

Colonoscopy is a powerful tool to protect your health:

Dr. Pothuri shares, "Patients who stay on schedule with colonoscopy often avoid bigger health issues."

4. Early Detection of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer often starts as small, harmless bumps called polyps. A colonoscopy helps by:

The CDC says colonoscopy can lower colon cancer deaths by 60% if done regularly.

5. Colonoscopy and Digestive Health

A colonoscopy helps with more than just cancer checks:

Dr. Pothuri says, "Many IBS patients learn more from one colonoscopy than months of testing."

6. What It Can Reveal

A colonoscopy can show:

7. Why It Matters After Age 45

The American Cancer Society now recommends starting at age 45:

Dr. Pothuri says, "We see more patients in their late 40s. Early screening is a major step forward."

8. Colonoscopy and Aging Well

Your colon changes with age. A colonoscopy helps by:

Studies show that regular colonoscopies reduce emergencies after age 60.

9. How It Finds Polyps and Lesions

Polyps don’t usually hurt but can become dangerous. Colonoscopy finds them using:

Dr. Pothuri says, "Even if you feel fine, colonoscopy finds what other tests miss."

10. Long-Term Benefits of Regular Screenings

Staying on schedule brings big benefits:

11. Colonoscopy vs. Other Tests

Feature Colonoscopy FIT (Stool Test) CT Colonography
Finds Polyps & Cancer Yes (real-time) Some signs (blood only) Yes (larger growths)
Frequency Every 10 years (avg. risk) Every year Every 5 years
Invasive? Yes, with sedation No No
Removes Polyps? Yes, during test No No
Prep Required? Yes No Yes
Long-Term Value High Moderate Moderate

Conclusion

A colonoscopy is more than just a screening. It’s a powerful way to stay ahead of health issues. From finding cancer early to improving digestion, this one test offers peace of mind. Houston patients trust Dr. Bharat Pothuri and Gastrodoxs for expert, gentle care. If you’re 45 or older, schedule your colonoscopy today and take charge of your health.

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I eat before the test?

Stick to clear liquids the day before. Broth, juice, and tea are okay.

2. Will it hurt?

No. Sedation helps you relax and feel no pain.

3. How long does it take?

The test takes 20–30 minutes. Plan for a 2–3 hour visit.

4. Can I drive afterward?

No. Bring someone to take you home.

5. How often should I get it?

Every 10 years if you’re low-risk. More often if needed.

6. Is it safe?

Yes. Problems are rare.

7. What if polyps are found?

They’re usually removed right away and tested.

8. How do I prep?

Drink a prep solution as instructed. Follow directions exactly.

9. Is it covered by insurance?

Most Houston plans cover it for adults over 45. Check yours.

10. Where can I get it done?

Gastrodoxs in Houston offers expert colonoscopies. Schedule at Gastrodoxs.com or call our office.

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