Colonoscopy

Colonoscopies: What to Know

It’s never easy to talk about, but understanding the basics of a colonoscopy can literally be a life-saver.

The Procedure: Simpler Than You Think

Many people avoid colonoscopies out of fear, but the process is highly streamlined:

Preparation: The day before, you follow a clear liquid diet and take a cleansing solution to ensure the doctors can clearly see the colon.
The Procedure: On the day of, you’ll arrive about an hour early. The procedure itself only takes about 15-20 minutes.
Recovery: You’ll wake up in a recovery area and go home the same day.

When Should You Get Screened

The guidelines have recently shifted. Screenings used to begin at age 50, but it is now recommended that adults start getting screened at age 45.

Providers are seeing more cases in younger individuals and early detection is the most powerful tool we have.

Don’t Ignore Red Flags

While colon cancer can be silent, certain “red flag” symptoms deserve immediate attention. If you experience any of the following, consult your physician: