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Why You Shouldn't Wait Until 50 for Your First Colonoscopy

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A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard screening test when it comes to colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer, if detected early, has higher chances of being treated. A colonoscopy helps in the diagnosis of this cancer, along with other health conditions. Under the procedure, the doctor passes a long and flexible tube with a light camera through the anus and along the length of the colon. The tube is withdrawn, after which the physician examines the walls of the colon for abnormal growths, such as tumors or polyps. Once the test is complete, polyps can be removed using thin, long instruments. Removing precancerous polyps can help prevent the development of cancer and improve your quality of life. Is 50 the Right Age to Opt for Colonoscopy? The chances of colorectal cancer are high in adults over 45 years of age. According to doctors, although this procedure was previously recommended for individuals over 50, it is now recommended for anyone aged 40 to 50. It is because in recent y...
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A Step-by-Step Guide to What Happens During an Endoscopy & Colonoscopy

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Endoscopy and colonoscopy are diagnostic tools that help doctors diagnose problems in your gastrointestinal tract. These procedures are performed to rule out mild or severe digestive conditions. In some cases, the doctors may recommend either of the two procedures. In other cases, they may recommend a combined test. If you have been experiencing symptoms like bloating, constipation, blood in stools, stomach ache, unexplained weight loss and discomfort for a prolonged period, visit a doctor. Depending on the initial examination, they may recommend endoscopy or colonoscopy or both to confirm the diagnosis of your condition. Here’s everything to know. What is Endoscopy? Endoscopy is a vital procedure used in modern medicine to diagnose and treat digestive conditions. It is a minimally invasive procedure that involves minimal preparation, from dietary adjustments to medical management, and more. The doctor will guide you towards the preparation. It is crucial to follow the guidelines to e...
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Ulcerative Colitis Treatment Options and Long-Term Care

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Image Source: CARE Hospitals Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition leading to inflammation and ulcers inside your colon or large intestine. Also known as UC, it is one of the most common types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), alongside Crohn’s disease. The symptoms of this condition include abdominal cramping and bloody diarrhea. People with this condition often poop more. People having this condition experience symptoms and flare-ups, followed by longer periods where no symptoms would show up, and then suddenly, the condition would flare up again. Therefore, it is vital to take long-term care for this condition seriously. As per the researchers, the cause of ulcerative colitis is complex and has many risk factors. According to them, UC is related to an overactive immune response. The immune system protects the body from germs and other dangerous substances. However, in some cases, the immune system may mistakenly attack your body, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. W...
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IBS vs IBD: Key Differences Explained

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are two of the increasingly popular gastrointestinal disorders with rising cases in the country in recent times. While there are a lot of similarities in their symptoms, they are not the same. They require different treatment and management. It is essential to educate yourself about both IBS and IBD so that you cannot confuse their symptoms and seek a suitable treatment option. What is IBS? Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS , has been classified as a functional gastrointestinal disorder. It is characterized by some kind of disturbance in smooth bowel function and may lead to great discomfort that may affect your quality of life on many levels. The symptoms of this condition may appear over time and may flare up in certain cases. As per doctors, people with this condition are more likely to have other functional disorders, including chronic fatigue symptoms, fibromyalgia, chronic pelvic disorder, temporomandibular joint ...
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Endoscopy Explained: What It Is, Why It’s Done & When You Might Need One

 The thought of getting an endoscopy can feel intimidating — after all, who wants a tube inside their body? But truth be told, an endoscopy is a simple, safe, and often life-saving procedure that helps doctors look inside your digestive tract without any cuts or major surgeries. Whether you’re struggling with acidity, unexplained stomach pain, or frequent vomiting, an endoscopy could be the key to finally understanding what’s going on inside. What is an Endoscopy? An endoscopy is a medical procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light at the tip — called an endoscope — to view the internal parts of your digestive system. The procedure is typically used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and beginning of the small intestine (duodenum). There are different types, such as: Upper GI Endoscopy : Through the mouth to view esophagus/stomach Colonoscopy : Through the rectum to view the colon Sigmoidoscopy : Checks the lower part of the colon Why Mi...
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