Digestive disorders can often be easily disregarded – until they become serious. Many serious illnesses and disorders will begin without any symptoms; therefore, tests like colonoscopies are very valuable as they allow for early detection and prevention before more severe signs appear. How do you know when you should be concerned? In this article, we will discuss in detail six signs that indicate if a person needs a colonoscopy.
- Ongoing Changes in Bowel Patterns
There are days when we all have an upset stomach, but if you have had ongoing issues such as changing stool consistency, diarrhea, or constipation, you should take note. If these symptoms have been ongoing beyond a couple of weeks, you should be seen for evaluation to ensure that an underlying concern is not present.
- Hematochezia
It is important to never disregard the presence of blood in your stool, whether in small or large amounts. You may notice red streaks of fresh blood, or you may see blood that appears dark or tar-like. While minor concerns may be the cause, such as a hemorrhoid, there are more serious reasons that would warrant further investigation.
- Unexplained Weight Loss
Unintentional weight loss can seem like a blessing at times, but it can be alarming, medically speaking. A sudden decrease in weight can point toward your body having a medical condition concerning digestion or absorption of nutrients.
- Persistent Discomfort In The Abdomen
Abdominal cramps, gas, and bloating or pain that occurs repeatedly may mean there is a problem with your digestive tract. If you find yourself experiencing discomfort consistently, then it is essential to investigate the reason for the ongoing discomfort and go for a colonoscopy.
- Fatigue and Weakness
Experiencing fatigue and weakness for an extended period (even with adequate sleep) may indicate a potential serious health problem, such as slow internal bleeding (often in the digestive tract), which can lead to anemia. Many people can develop anemia from chronic slow bleeding and will often be completely unaware of it until they are tested.
- Family History of Colon Conditions
If you have any history of having a family member develop colon polyps or colon cancer, you are at a much higher risk of developing similar conditions yourself. In these cases, doctors will frequently recommend that you begin your screenings at an earlier age, as well as more frequently than normally recommended for someone your age.
Why Early Screening Matters
As per the Best Gastroenterologists in Mohali, colon-related health problems, such as cancer, can take a long time to develop and often go undetected until the later stages. Through the use of a colonoscopy, your physician can find and eliminate polyps that can later become cancerous, which would have been detectable if you had the procedure done earlier. After the age of 45, most physicians will recommend routine screening (depending upon your risk factors) for colon and rectal cancers. Be sure to ask your physician what is appropriate for YOU, given your medical history and the history of your family as well.
Sohana Hospital Mohali is the most trusted destination in the tri-city for patients looking for colonoscopy, thanks to its advanced technology and the Best Gastroenterologists in Chandigarh. Book your appointment today!