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The Importance of Getting a Colonoscopy

You can imagine a colonoscopy to be an unpleasant, embarrassing procedure that requires a great deal of preparation and impersonalized study. Although the screening is not exactly something to look forward to, it is a necessary component of your preventative health care.

Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri

The Significance of a Colonoscopy

Gastrodoxs Houston

Worried about colon cancer? You're not alone.
colonoscopy can be a frightening procedure, but it is one of the most effective methods of colorectal cancer prevention. We would like you to feel educated at Gastrodoxs in Houston.

In this guide, you'll learn:

1. What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is an examination that allows your physician to examine the inside of your colon and rectum. A small camera on a thin, flexible tube (known as a colonoscope) examines whether polyps are present, there is bleeding or cancer.

What to Expect:

The colonoscopy provides us with the complete view of the colon. It is safe and in many cases can be life-saving, says Dr. Pothuri.

2. Reasons Why Doctors recommend Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is not only cancer-detecting but it prevents it.

Key Benefits:

CDC reports that screening can reduce the deaths caused by colon cancer by 60 percent.

Every polyp that we take off reduces the risks of cancer, says Dr. Pothuri. This is the reason why we suggest the age of 45 to screen.

3. The benefits of Colonoscopy in preventing the development of Colorectal Cancer

And in case you are asking how colonoscopy prevents the development of colorectal cancer, here is how it works:

Why It Matters:

Today a fast test will save a very big problem tomorrow, says Dr. Pothuri

4. At What Age Should You begin Routine Colonoscopy?

When should you commence regular colonoscopy screenings, then it depends on your risk.

Screening Guidelines:

High-Risk Factors:

In the multicultural Houston community, Dr. Pothuri says that we personalize screening

5. Knowing the role of Colonoscopy in the Early Detection of Cancer

Early diagnosis implies improved results

The Process:

There is no better place to view a colon, says Dr. Pothuri, than a clean one.

6. Colonoscopy Preventive of Colon Cancer

It is more than a phrase that has been proved that colonoscopy is an effective preventive measure against colon cancer.

Why It Works:

Dr. Pothuri says that prevention is a team work. First you put your foot in the door we will see to the rest.

7. Colonoscopy vs. Other Screening Methods

Feature Colonoscopy FIT Test CT Colonography Sigmoidoscopy
Removes polyps finds Yes No No Yes (partial)
Frequency Once in every 10 yrs Once in every year Once in every 5 yrs Once in every 5-10 yrs
Sedation needed Yes No No Sometimes
Preparation required Full cleanse Minimal Full cleanse Partial cleanse
Precision (Cancer) Maximum Mean Maximum Mean

Houstonian doctors seem to like colonoscopy because it is comprehensive and accurate.

8. Colonoscopy Preparation in Houston

Good prep = better results. Follow these steps:

The better the prep, the better the test, says Dr. Pothuri.

9. Tips for a Smooth Procedure

Majority are nervous, however, the process is not painful and is safe to most of the people.

Helpful Tips:

10. True Confessions of Houston Patients

Meet Maria, Age 52:

Maria says, I was frightened, but Gustrodoxs put it easy. Now I say to everybody just get it done.

11. Trusted Resources

12. Conclusion

Colonoscopy saves lives. It assists in the early detection and prevention of colon cancer. Your doctor should talk to you whether you are 45 or in your retirement age. We are Gastrodoxs Houston, and we can get you to make that first step.

Dr. Pothuri says that a few hours of your time today can bring years into your life.

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.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a colonoscopy feel like?

Majority of patients do not experience anything during the test. You will be relaxed and in a coma. Thereafter, you can experience a slight bloating or gas.

What is the entire duration of the process?

Plan around 3-4 hours. The preparation and the recovery is shown to consume approximately an hour each with a 30-minute process between them.

Is colonoscopy safe?

Yes. severe complications occur in fewer than 1 per 1,000 instances. It is extremely low-risk with the help of sedation and modern equipment.

Suppose my family had colon cancer?

You're at higher risk. Early screening usually 10 years before your family member was diagnosed or when you are 40 years old. Talk to your doctor.

Is it possible to eat or drink prior to the test?

No. The day before, you are on a clear-liquid diet and have a bowel prep. This cleanses out your colon to see.

Will my insurance cover it?

Colonoscopy is a screening covered by most of the plans. Check with your provider and with our staff to confirm your benefits.

What is the frequency of the repetition of the test?

Provided your results are normal, repeat at least every 10 years. In case of the presence of polyps, your doctor will establish a new interval.

Will I be able to work the following day?

Yes. Most people get back to normal activities the following morning after your sedation wears out.

What will be the outcome in case they detect polyps?

Polyps get removed and biopsied. It normally results in 1-2 weeks and you go home the same day.

What is the way to make a colonoscopy reservation at Gastrodoxs?

Make an appointment at our clinic in Houston or use our online appointment request form. We will assign your date, guide you through your prep and respond to any questions.

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