Colonoscopy Clinic in Singapore: When Should Patients Undergo Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows your doctor to examine the inner lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. Find out the information you need to know about a good colonoscopy clinic in Singapore here: https://alphagastro.sg/about-centre/.
A colonoscopy can help find ulcers, polyps, tumors, and areas of inflammation or bleeding. Colonoscopies can also be used to treat certain conditions, such as removing polyps or tissue samples for lab testing.
The benefits of a colonoscopy are numerous. Perhaps most importantly, a colonoscopy can help detect colorectal cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable.
A colonoscopy can also help detect other problems of the large intestine, such as ulcers, polyps, and inflammation. In some cases, a colonoscopy can be used to treat certain conditions, such as removing polyps or taking tissue samples for lab testing. Overall, a colonoscopy is a safe and effective way to detect problems in the large intestine.
When Should Patients get Colonoscopy?
For most people, colonoscopy is an effective way to screen for colorectal cancer. As a general recommendation, people at average risk for the disease begin regular screening at age 45.
If you’re over the age of 76, it is generally recommended that you talk to your doctor about whether or not to continue screening. There are many different ways to screen for colorectal cancer, and the best method may vary from person to person.
Some people may opt for a colonoscopy every ten years, while others may choose to have a yearly stool test or a virtual colonoscopy every five years. People with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors may need to be screened more frequently.
For people who are at high risk for colorectal cancer it is advisable that they get screened starting at age 40 or 10 years earlier than the earliest family member diagnosed with the disease. People who have had colorectal polyps removed may also need to be screened more often. People who have Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are also at increased risk and should talk to their doctor about starting regular screening at an earlier age.
What to Expect During a Colonoscopy Procedure
The colonoscope is a long, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end. It is inserted through the rectum into the colon to allow the doctor to see the inside of the colon and look for any abnormal growths, such as polyps.
Polyps are growths that can develop into cancer if they are not removed. Since colonoscopy involves the insertion of a long tube into the rectum, the thought of the procedure can be daunting for some people.
However, it is important to remember that colonoscopy is a safe and effective way to detect polyps and other abnormalities of the colon. Most people do not experience any discomfort during the procedure, as they are given sedatives to help them relax.
The sedatives may make you feel drowsy, and you may not remember much of the procedure. In some cases, people may experience mild cramping or bloating during the procedure.
After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery area, where you will be monitored for any side effects of the sedatives. Once the sedatives have worn off, you will be able to go home and resume your normal activities.
Please note that you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure, as the sedatives can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive. Also, it would help if you did not drink alcohol or operate heavy machinery for the rest of the day.
Risks Associated With Colonoscopies
While colonoscopies are generally safe, there are a few risks associated with the procedure. When you visit a good colonoscopy clinic in Singapore, the practitioners will be keen to discuss these risks with you so you make an informed decision. These risks include:
- Perforation: The colonoscope can sometimes cause a small tear in the lining of the colon. This is usually not serious and can be treated with antibiotics. In rare cases, surgery may be needed to repair the tear.
- Infection: There is a small risk of developing an infection after a colonoscopy. Symptoms of an infection include fever, chills, and abdominal pain. Most infections can be treated with antibiotics.
- Bleeding: The colonoscope can sometimes cause bleeding from polyps or other growths removed during the procedure. In most cases, this bleeding is minor and does not require treatment. In rare cases, more serious bleeding may occur and may require a blood transfusion or surgery.
- Reactions to sedatives: Some people may experience reactions to the sedatives used during the procedure, such as dizziness, low blood pressure, and irregular heart rate. These reactions are usually mild and go away quickly once the sedatives have worn off. In rare cases, more serious reactions can occur and may require medical treatment.
Preparing for Your Colonoscopy Appointment
It is important to arrive at your colonoscopy appointment well-prepared to ensure the procedure goes smoothly. Here are a few things you can do when preparing to visit a colonoscopy clinic in Singapore:
- Schedule the procedure for a time when you can take off work and have someone else drive you home afterward.
- Follow the instructions for your bowel prep carefully. This usually involves drinking a lot of clear liquids and taking a laxative the night before the procedure.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
- Take any medications your doctor has prescribed to help you relax during the procedure.
- Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove. Before the procedure, you will be asked to remove all clothing, jewelry, and glasses.
After the Procedure
Most people can go home and resume their normal activities after a colonoscopy. However, it is important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for the rest of the day.
You should also avoid drinking alcohol or taking any medications that can impair your judgment or reflexes. If you have any questions or concerns after the procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact your doctor.
The Bottom Line
The exact time to undergo colonoscopies depends on individual risk factors, but in general, people over the age of 50 should get the procedure every ten years. Also, colonoscopies are generally safe, but there are a few risks associated with the procedure. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and arrive at your appointment well-prepared to ensure the procedure goes smoothly.
At Alpha Digestive and Liver Center, we understand that undergoing a colonoscopy can be stressful. That’s why we offer a relaxed and comfortable environment for our patients.
Our experienced team of doctors and nurses will ensure that you are well informed and comfortable throughout the entire process. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Call: (65) 8876 9034 or visit us at:
Alpha Digestive & Liver Centre | Dr Benjamin Yip
3 Mt Elizabeth #15-09
Mt Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
+65 8876 9034
