A colonoscopy is a procedure wherein a trained medical professional examines your rectum and colon using a long, flexible, narrow tube called a colonoscope. This has a light and tiny camera on one end. In addition to polyps and cancer, a colonoscopy can also reveal inflamed and swollen tissue, ulcers, and polyps.
During a colonoscopy, a long, thin, flexible tube is inserted into the large intestine through the rectum and equipped with a camera that displays images on a screen and enables the removal of polyps.
Sigmoidoscopy: An examination of the final third of the large intestine is performed by inserting a thin, flexible tube via the rectum (sigmoid colon).
CT Scan: Using radiation, a medical procedure called a computed tomography (CT) scan creates images of the large intestine.
Stool tests: If the stool sample you send to the lab is positive for blood or genetic abnormalities that could indicate polyps and cancer, a colonoscopy is required.
In order to examine for and remove polyps, a colonoscopy should be performed if any of the most recent tests reveal abnormalities.
Can colon polyps be avoided?
A few lifestyle changes may also be helpful, and routine screenings can dramatically reduce your risk of developing colon polyps and colorectal cancer:
- Learn how to live a healthy lifestyle
- Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Keep your fat intake to a minimum
- Don’t drink too much and don’t smoke
- Exercise—at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity, as well as two sessions of muscular strengthening
- Consume three to five servings of fruit and vegetables daily
- Avoid eating too much red meat and fatty foods
- Low-dose aspirin used every day has been found to reduce colon polyps and cancer. However, aspirin can have side effects. Consult your doctor first.
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