Has your Newport Beach, CA doctor, Glenn D. Madokoro, MD, talked to you about having a colonoscopy yet? A common medical procedure, colonoscopies are used to screen for signs of colon cancer and other dangerous conditions of the colon. Here are four reasons you might need one.
1. You are Fifty or Older
Routine colonoscopies typically begin around fifty years of age for most people. Even if you have no warning signs or family history of colon cancer, your Newport Beach, CA doctor will likely recommend a colonoscopy around this age just to be safe.
2. You are at an Increased Risk for Colon Cancer
If you are one of the many Newport Beach, CA residents at an increased risk for colon cancer, however, your doctor will likely recommend that you have a colonoscopy sooner or more frequently. This will help ensure that, if something does develop, your doctor will know right away.
3. A Previous Screening Indicated Cause for Concern
While the majority of colonoscopy results come back normal, if yours indicates that there is some cause for concern, your doctor will want to see you back again more frequently. This will help your doctor make the best treatment decision for you.
4. You are Experiencing Several Symptoms Related to Your Bowels.
Colon cancer can present several symptoms. If you notice one or more of the following symptoms, call Dr. Madokoro in Newport Beach, CA to schedule a colonoscopy sooner rather than later.
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Bloody stool
- Stomach cramps
- Unexplained weight loss
While these symptoms can just be the result of consuming the wrong foods, they can also be a sign that something is wrong. If any of the four descriptions above fits you, call Dr. Madokoro in Newport Beach, CA to set up an appointment for your next colonoscopy today.