Colon cancer screenings in Amarillo
At BSA, your comfort, care, and convenience come first. Every aspect of your colon cancer screening is carefully designed, from scheduling to the procedure, with your health and time in mind. Our expert medical team is committed to early detection and prevention, using advanced technology to ensure accurate results while prioritizing your well-being. Colon cancer screenings are a critical step in maintaining your health, especially for those over 45 or with risk factors. Schedule your colonoscopy at BSA Amarillo Diagnostic Clinic today and take control of your long-term health. A referral is needed prior to scheduling your appointment.
Colon cancer screenings
Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, but if detected early, colon cancer can be treated or even prevented. Through regular colonoscopy screenings beginning at age 45, you can potentially save your life by treating polyps (abnormal growths) before the cancer spreads.
While there are different types of colorectal cancer screenings, a colonoscopy is the most effective method for your doctor to view your entire colon and look for any areas of concern. During a colonoscopy, your physician will use a small camera attached to a thin, flexible tube to examine the entire colon. While looking for any signs of cancer, he or she can detect abnormal growths, known as polyps, in the colon or rectum and remove them before they turn cancerous.
Adults without a family history of colon cancer should begin regular colon cancer screenings at age 45. The national recommendation for colon cancer screenings is once every 10 years. However, more frequent screenings may be necessary if abnormalities are present or if you are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
A colonoscopy requires a referral from your primary care provider or gastroenterologist. If you already have a referral and want to schedule or need assistance with coordinating your referral, call 806-358-0200.
Preparing for your colonoscopy
A few weeks before your procedure, you will receive instructions on how to prepare for your colonoscopy. You may be required to adjust your diet, and you will need to consume a prescription laxative drink that will help you empty your bowel entirely before the procedure.
When you arrive for your procedure, your doctor will administer a sedative to you intravenously (through an IV). The procedure generally takes 30 to 60 minutes, and you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. The vast majority of patients recover in less than 24 hours, and the vast majority are able to return to work the next day. Patients should avoid driving after their procedure.
Symptoms of colon cancer
Colon cancer can produce a wide range of symptoms, but some of the most common ones include:
- Bleeding from the rectum
- Blood in the stood
- Frequent vomiting
- New and lasting constipation or diarrhea
- Persistent abdominal pain and/or bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible. It is also important to note that some patients with colon cancer show no symptoms at all. For this reason, regular colonoscopies are a vital part of your continued health.