You might know that at some point in every person’s life, they will need a colonoscopy. This is to check for signs of polyps or colon cancer and can help you avoid some serious complications. You might not know when a colonoscopy is needed or when you can expect to have your first one done. Dr. Ahmed Hasan, Dr. Andrew Schwartz, and Dr. Mahreema Jawairia at Lehigh Gastroenterology Associates in Lehighton, Allentown, New Tripoli, and Palmerton, PA, can explain when a colonoscopy is needed and what you can expect.
When To Get a Colonoscopy
As we get older, the risk of colon cancer increases and it’s important that any signs are detected as early as possible. The best way to catch colon cancer early is by getting a colonoscopy. This can help your gastroenterologist look inside your body and search for any irregularities or abnormalities that need to be treated.
Your first colonoscopy should happen after you reach the age of 45. Our gastroenterologist will recommend getting a colonoscopy at the age of 45 and then continuing every 10 years after that if your results are normal.
You may also need a colonoscopy if you’re dealing with pain. If you have unexpected weight loss, abdominal pain, persistent bowel changes, or blood in your stool, our gastroenterologist will likely recommend a colonoscopy. This can help them look for any issues and diagnose what might be happening. If there are any polyps or if there’s bleeding, your doctor can use the scope to remove the polyp and stop the bleeding.
Contact Our Gastroenterologist Today
Make sure that you aren’t due for a colonoscopy. Contact Dr. Ahmed Hasan, Dr. Andrew Schwartz, and Dr. Mahreema Jawairia at Lehigh Gastroenterology Associates in Lehighton, Allentown, New Tripoli, and Palmerton, PA, to learn more about when a colonoscopy is needed. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (610) 379-0443.