A colonoscopy may also be a little bit frightening, yet it is one of the greatest instruments that a physician has to maintain your colon in a healthy state. It can help you feel positive and have more control of your health, whether you are 45 or you have a family history of colon cancer, it will be easier to understand why you should have this examination. Within this post, we are going to discuss it all when should you get a colonoscopy how long does a colonoscopy take in straightforward terms. We have also invited Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a famous gastroenterologist in Houston to give his professional tips.
Colonoscopy is a risk free, outpatient procedure, which allows a specialist to look at the inside of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. In the test, a slender, plausible pipe (a colonoscope) time-honored with a camera inside is cautiously inserted inside the rectum. The video images are relayed to a screen by the camera hence enabling your doctor to identify:
According to Dr. Bharat Pothuri, A colonoscopy is a preventive and diagnostic method. Early diagnoses are made with us and you are not even showing any symptoms.
One of the ways to avoid getting caught early is to know when you should get a colonoscopy continued Dr. Pothuri. Based on your risk, there is a guideline:
The American Cancer Society recommends screening in the mid-40s to people who are at average risk. The UAE's geographical characteristics primarily determine the environment where cancer, as a disease, is likely to thrive. The geographical aspects of the UAE are the high level determinants of the environment under which cancer as a disease stands a chance of flourishing.
It is your risk that determines your colonoscopy schedule according to Dr. Pothuri. Here's a quick look:
| Level of risk | Screening Interval | Notes |
| Average risk | Every 10 years | In case of a normal first colonoscopy |
| Polyps history | All 3-5 years | Old depending on the number and type of polyps |
| Family history | Every 5 years or as advised | Closer follow-up in case of relatives below 60 |
| IBD (ulcerative colitis or Crohn) | Every 1-3 years | Depends on the length and spread of the disease |
One of the frequently asked questions is: how long does a colonoscopy offer? In most cases:
On average, it takes the people half a day to undergo this process, says Dr. Pothuri. But the serenity of mind is permanent.
Your doctor can recommend this screening due to a number of reasons. Key reasons include:
It may be tempting to want to search the internet and find a colonoscopy doctor near me or colonoscopy specialist near me. The following are some of the tips to locate the appropriate provider in Houston:
Team up with a listening provider, Dr. Pothuri proposes. Prep and follow-up can be achieved with a lot of ease in a friendly office staff.
You will see well when you are well prepared to the doctor. Majority of centers in Greater Houston observe the steps including:
Prior to your colonoscopy day in Houston
Healing is fast, but be the best not to disobey your physician:
In some cases, individuals will be questioning whether there is another test. Below is a quick comparison:
| Test Type | Frequency | Merits of the test | Demerits of the test |
| Colonoscopy | All 10 years* | Gold, polyp on the spot | Requires prep & sedation |
| FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) | Annual | No prep, self-administered | Not very sensitive; no poly-cutting |
| CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy) | Each 5 years old | Non-invasive imaging | Exposure to radiation; none eliminated |
*More frequently where risk factors are involved.
Regular colonoscopies prevent more of your health as they manifest problems early. You either type in, colonoscopy specialist near me or you might simply ask inquiries like, how long does a colonoscopy take, you will have fewer concerns with the process once you have well comprehended it. We are convinced that everybody in Houston is entitled to welcoming, professional attention at Gastrodoxs. Book your screening and take care of your colon.
Ready to schedule? Are there any search colonoscopy specialist near me or can you call your local Houston gastroenterology clinic today. Your colon health do it now!
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.
Majority of the healthy adults start at 45 years. Earlier is better in case you have a history of colon cancer in the family.
Treat half-day: preparation, 20-30 minutes, and 1-2 hours of rest.
In case no polyps are detected every 10 years.
You'll receive sedatives. Majority of the individuals experience minimal to no discomfort.
This should be started with soft foods-soup, yogurt, toast-then start with a balanced diet.
Find out board-certified gastroenterologists in approved centers. Read local reviews.
Yes, FIT tests (annual) and CT colonography (after every 5 years), but these have their limitations.
Little polyps are usually done away with at the moment. The outcome of labs determines your course of action.
Yes. Sedation may impair the coordination and judgment over a number of hours.
No, have a friend or family drive you once you are sedated.
