Image
Senior Wellness
Colonoscopies, Explained
A colonoscopy is a powerful tool—not just for diagnosing colorectal issues, but for preventing cancer before it develops. Understanding what it is, why it's recommended, and how to prepare can help empower you to take charge of your health.
Here’s everything to know about colonoscopies.
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a long, flexible, lighted tube (called a colonoscope) is used to examine the entire colon and rectum. It allows doctors to spot polyps—growths that can turn cancerous, and remove them during the same visit. This makes a colonoscopy one of the most effective tools for both detecting and preventing colorectal cancer.
Why It Matters
Polyps in the colon can grow and become cancerous over time—but finding and removing them early can prevent cancer from developing. In fact, screenings like colonoscopies can reduce colorectal cancer deaths by up to 60%, and they’re considered the gold standard for accuracy.
Who Should Get Screened and When?
Institutions like the American Cancer Society recommend that average-risk adults begin screening at age 45 and continue through age 75. Your care provider may recommend additional colonoscopies between ages 76–85 depending on other factors.
For individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer, early screening is especially important. Your first colonoscopy may be recommended starting at age 40, or 10 years prior to the age your relative was when they were diagnosed.
How It Works
Colonoscopies are common medical procedures, and often follow a pre-planned routine:
Before the colonoscopy, you'll need to cleanse your colon, typically through a special diet and laxatives. This ensures a clear view during the procedure.
The majority of colonoscopies are done as an out-patient procedure, and you will be required to bring a designated driver to help drive you home after your colonoscopy.
On the day of the colonoscopy, your doctor will provide medication to sedate you and help prevent discomfort.
When the procedure starts, you’ll be instructed to lie on your side and the colonoscope will be inserted into your rectum, then colon.
Your doctor will use the colonoscope to inspect the colon lining, biopsy suspicious areas, and remove polyps all at the same time.
After the procedure, you’ll be monitored for a short time. A follow-up appointment may be necessary depending on potential health concerns the colonoscopy uncovers.
What Are the Risks?
While colonoscopies are very safe, like all medical procedures, they carry small risks. These include perforation (a tear in the colon), bleeding, or rare reactions to the medications used. Serious complications are rare, occurring in about three out of every 1,000 procedures. The benefits in preventing cancer strongly outweigh the risks for most people.
Taking Charge
If you're over age 45, or younger with increased risk, it’s time to talk with your doctor about a colonoscopy. They can guide you on:
When’s the right time for your first screening
How often to repeat screenings, depending on risk factors
How to prepare for the procedure
What to expect during and after
Ask your provider to connect you to the CRC Registry
Remember, a colonoscopy is more than just a screening—it’s a lifeline. By catching and removing polyps before they turn into cancer, this procedure helps you stay well and live fully.
Explore Our Fotonovela Guides
To help you understand the colonoscopy process in a friendly, visual way, check out these helpful fotonovelas:
Growing Healthy with AltaMed
No matter the screenings, services, or specialty care you need, we have you covered. And with locations throughout Southern California, help is always close to home. Get started with AltaMed online or by calling our Patient Service Center at (888) 499-9303.
