Although digestive problems can affect both females and males, certain gastrointestinal disorders are more prevalent among women. This may be a result of the different structures of the GI tract between males and females. Hormonal shifts that occur in women's bodies because of menses, pregnancy, and menopause might also render gut issues, like IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), more severe in patients who are women. If you or a member of your family have been facing gastrointestinal symptoms, we ... [Read More]
Colonscopy
June is Men’s Health Month: Get the Facts About Men and Colon Cancer
You've likely noticed day-to-day fluctuations in bowel habits depending upon the types of foods you consume and the daily medications you take. Yet, persistent changes in bowel habits can signal a more concerning condition. Colon and rectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer among the U.S. population, as indicated by the American Cancer Society. It's also important to note that the lifelong risk of having colon cancer among men is about 1 in 23. June is Men's Health month. At ... [Read More]
How Frequently Should a Colonoscopy be Performed?
A colonoscopy is a gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. The procedure entails doing a “prep,” which helps empty the bowels completely for accurate viewing. During a colonoscopy, the doctor uses a lighted, flexible instrument to view the rectum and colon, and check for abnormalities that may point to cancer. Precancerous polyps can also be removed during a colonoscopy. One of the most frequently asked questions about a colonoscopy is how often it should be performed, and the answer ... [Read More]
What Kind of Doctor Is Best for a Colonoscopy?
The colon, which is the large intestine, is a key part of the digestive system. Its function is to remove water, salt, and nutrients from partially digested food, and to prepare waste for elimination. Your risk of developing colon issues increases with age, and it is now recommended that you have your first colonoscopy at age 45. If you have colon cancer or rectal cancer in your family (grandparent, parent, sibling, or child), then your doctor may recommend that you have your first ... [Read More]
Colonoscopy Prep: Austin Gastroenterology in Central Texas
What Is a Colonoscopy? A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive test that is used to discover abnormal growths and disease conditions in the anus, rectum, large intestine, or colon. Done on an outpatient basis, a colonoscopy is an effective tool in screening patients for a variety of GI problems, including colorectal cancer. This malignancy is the third most deadly form of cancer in the United States today according to the Centers for Disease Control. Why Do I Need a Colonoscopy? If you are age ... [Read More]
