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. Many people avoid colonoscopies out of fear, but the process is easier than people would expect.
- Preparation: The day before, you follow a clear liquid diet and take a cleansing solution to ensure the doctors can clearly see the colon.
- 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 To 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.
While colon cancer can be silent, certain symptoms deserve immediate attention. If you experience any of the following, consult your physician:
- Rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
Preparation
Preparing for a colonoscopy is necessary to help providers get the best results.
Schedule a Colonoscopy
Fast track your screening with a Direct Access Colonoscopy with no referral needed if qualified. Call to confirm your eligibility and set your date:
Fort Wayne/Allen County
Dupont Hospital, Lutheran Hospital or Lutheran Downtown Hospital
(260) 969-7184
Warsaw/Kosciusko County
Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital
(260) 969-7184
Bluffton/Wells County
Bluffton Regional Medical Center
(260) 353-2021
Peru/Miami County
Dukes Memorial Hospital
(765) 475-2388