It can be overwhelming when you have to schedule your first colonoscopy. You're not alone. We hope to make you feel confident and informed at Gastrodoxs. In this post, we'll explain:
We will employ straightforward language, bullet points, a convenient table, and the thoughts of a Houston gastroenterologist Dr. Bharat Pothuri. At the end you will know precisely when to make that appointment.
Nosecopy is an exam that allows physicians to see your large intestine (colon). It aids in the detection of polyps ittle growths which may develop into cancer. Early detection saves lives.
When diagnosed early, colon cancer is highly treatable says Dr. Bharat Pothuri. It is all a difference of a simple screening.
Colon cancer can afflict anybody. The degree of risk to you is based on:
Knowing your risk will enable you and your Houston gastroenterologist to determine when to have your first colonoscopy.
One of the questions we hear most often: What is the age at which you should have your colonoscopy?
Dr. Bharat Pothuri writes, It is a head start when you start at 45. In case of family history, screening should consider earlier.
Keep in mind: Discuss with your physician in Houston your own risk. They are able to tell you in what age you should have your first colonoscopy.
A straight forward table given below is a summation of the colonoscopy guidelines based on age and risk. Calculate when to have your first test.
| Risk Level | Age to begin screening | Follow-Up Interval | Notes |
| Average Risk | 45 | Every 10 years | No polyps in family history |
| First-Degree Relative with Colon Cancer | 40, or 10 years before relative's diagnosis | Every 5 years* | An example of this is that, assuming the diagnosis of a parent at age 50, the age begins at 40 |
| Personal History of Polyps | 40-45, or time of discovery | Every 3-5 years | Depends on type and quantity of polyps |
| Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) | 8 years since diagnosis | Every 1-2 years | Applies to ulcerative colitis, Crohn |
*Follow-up intervals can vary. Always consult your doctor.
Dr. Pothuri recommends that you do not delay in case there are warning signs such as blood in your stool or persistent belly pain. Book an assessment immediately.
Awareness, Why should I have a colonoscopy and when? Here's a quick checklist:
Hydration is very important in the heat of Houston, says Dr. Pothuri. Take as much clear fluid as you are able to.
This whole procedure takes 20-30 minutes. You will spend some time in a rest room before the tranquilizer leaves.
Dr. Pothuri reminds patients: Removal of polyps may require me to follow up sooner that is, typically in 3-5 years.
We also interviewed Dr. Bharat Pothuri, the Houston resident regarding the timing of colonoscopy:
It is the ability to plan your initial colonoscopy that enables you to be in control of your health. Gastrodoxs in Houston boasts of effective communication, professional care, and empathetic care. Call us now, if you are nearing 45 years of age or below because of your family or personal history. Life can be saved through screening. With your healthy future, I am working with you.
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.
Begin at 45 in case of an average 3-risk adult. Risky people (family history or personal history of polyps/IBD) might have to start sooner.
The average-risk adults begin at age 45 and re-occur after every 10 years. First-degree relatives- begin at age 40 or 10 years prior to the diagnosis of a relative with colon cancer, with follow-ups at 5 year intervals. Personal history of polyps: the beginning is 40-45 (or its detection) and periodicity is 3-5 years. The initiation of IBD patients starts 8 years after the diagnosis and is repeated every 1-2 years.
Start a screening age 45 in case of average risk. Talk with your doctor about any personal or family considerations to change time.
Age over 45 (average risk), first-degree relative with a previous diagnosis under 60 years old, history of polyps or IBD in himself or herself or having worrying weight loss or bleeding.
Eat a clear- Ø liquids diet 24-48 hours prior to the surgery, take prescribed laxatives (usually split-dose), be adequately hydrated, and have a ride home as you are not allowed to drive after being seded.
No. You will be slightly sedated, and the majority of patients do not experience much to no pain during the examination.
Risks are low. Milder gas or cramping are common side effects. Rare complications are the bleeding or very rare perforation of the colon.
In case there are no polyps, re-examine after every 10 years. In case of polyps removal, follow-up periods are usually 3-5 years, which depends on the amount and kind of polyps.
Yes. You are able to resume normal diet right after the procedure unless your doctor has recommended otherwise.
You have to make appointments with the Dr. Bharat Pothuri team by contacting Gastrodoxs, or request a referral to a reliable GI specialist in Houston by your primary care doctor.
