A colonoscopy can detect inflamed tissue, ulcers, and abnormal growths such as polyps and tumors. The procedure is now the gold standard and commonly used to detect or prevent individuals from getting colon cancer. Adults starting at age 45 years are strongly recommended to have a colonoscopy or some other test to screen for colon cancer. Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or other conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease are often advised to have a colonoscopy for cancer screening at an earlier age. It is also used to evaluate people with unexplained changes in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, bleeding from the anus or rectum, and weight loss.
The colon must be completely clean to achieve accurate results from a colonoscopy. Patients will usually be given a special cleansing solution to drink before the exam, or may be asked to consume only a clear liquid diet with laxatives or enemas. Most medications can still be taken, although some such as aspirin or blood thinners may require special instructions. Your doctor will instruct you on how to prepare.
