Memorial Hermann Greater Heights

713-880-8707

Memorial Hermann Southwest

(713) 777-2555

Smith Tower

713-796-8627

How a colonoscopy from your gastroenterologists in Houston, TX, can help you

Having a colonoscopy isn’t something people talk about. The truth is a colonoscopy is an important diagnostic test to prevent colorectal cancer, the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in this country. A colonoscopy can save your life.

The gastroenterologists at Houston Digestive Diseases Consultants provide comprehensive gastrointestinal services, including colonoscopies. They have three convenient office locations in Houston, TX, to help you.

You should have a first colonoscopy at least by the time you are 50. After that, you should have a colonoscopy every few years or as your gastroenterologist recommends.

There are also some signs and symptoms which may indicate you need a colonoscopy. Visit your gastroenterologist if you are experiencing:

  • Bleeding in your rectum
  • Blood in your stool
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Chronic constipation
  • Frequent abdominal pain

You will be sedated during your colonoscopy procedure, so be sure to bring someone with you who can drive you home afterward. During your procedure, a thin, flexible tube will be inserted into your rectum and guided up into your colon.

The tube has a camera attached to one end which allows your gastroenterologist to view your colon. Any abnormal tissue or polyps can be removed and sent off for a biopsy if necessary. The biopsy can indicate if the tissue is benign or cancerous.

The actual procedure takes about 45 minutes, but you should plan on spending 2 to 3 hours in recovery. A colonoscopy can help protect you from colorectal cancer and potentially save your life. When you have a colonoscopy, cancer can be detected in its early stages, when it is more easily treatable.

To find out more about when you may need a colonoscopy, call the gastroenterologists at Houston Digestive Diseases Consultants. Call the Memorial Hermann Southwest location by calling (713) 777-2555, or in Smith Tower at (713) 796-8627, or in the Memorial Hermann Greater Heights location by calling (713) 880-8707.

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