Colonoscopy is the best method to diagnose polyps, colon cancer and inflammatory bowel diseases. In this article, you will learn about the benefits, preparations, possible side effects and importance of colonoscopy in the prevention of colon cancer.

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What is colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a specialized method in digestion that uses a narrow and flexible tube equipped with a camera to examine the large intestine (colon) completely.

This method is considered the gold standard in the diagnosis of colon diseases, and in addition to diagnosis, it also provides the possibility of removing polyps or sampling (biopsy). be:

gastrointestinal bleeding or seeing blood in the stool

anemia due to iron deficiency with no known cause

persistent abdominal pain or bloating

change in bowel movements (diarrhea or chronic constipation)

family history of polyps or cancer Bowel

Follow-up of patients with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease

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Necessary preparations before colonoscopy

To perform an accurate and effective colonoscopy, the intestine must be completely empty. For this:

A few days before the colonoscopy, a low-fiber diet or liquids are prescribed.

Special laxatives are used.

If you are using certain medications (such as blood thinners), the doctor may recommend changing the dose or temporarily stopping it. Slow.

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Advantages of colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is one of the few methods that is both diagnostic and therapeutic.

Its main advantages are:

Early detection of cancer Intestine

Removal of polyps in the same session

Helps prevent colon cancer

Possibility of sampling (biopsy) without the need for surgery

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Colonoscopy is recommended for whom Is it possible?

According to the new guidelines:

All people over 45 years of age, even without symptoms, should have a colonoscopy once.

In high-risk people (family history of cancer or polyps), colonoscopy should be done earlier and at shorter intervals.

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Possible side effects of colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is a safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it may cause complications:

bloating or abdominal pain

mild bleeding (especially after Polyp removal)

Intestinal perforation (very rare)

Performing colonoscopy by a specialist doctor with standard equipment minimizes the risk of complications. It is effective and life-saving, which can be significantly effective in the prevention and early treatment of colon cancer. If you have symptoms such as gastrointestinal bleeding or changes in bowel movements, or there is a family history of colon cancer, it is better to see a gastroenterologist as soon as possible. Iranma doctors, 3rd floor, unit 12 title="Edit/Preview">