Direct Screen Colonoscopy
Did you know you can schedule your colorectal cancer screening without needing a prior consultation or referral from your primary care provider? This approach helps save time, reduce costs, and remove barriers to care for people who are at average risk of colorectal cancer and do not have complicated medical conditions.
In contrast, traditional colonoscopy scheduling usually requires a separate appointment with your doctor before you can be referred to a care provider for the procedure. This extra step can delay colon cancer screening and increase out-of-pocket costs.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer: Prevention Through Screening
Colorectal cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making regular screening essential. Undergoing a screening colonoscopy is not only a proactive step for your health but also plays a crucial role in the early detection and prevention of this disease.
Common Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
While many patients do not experience symptoms, it’s vital to recognize potential warning signs. If you notice any of the following symptoms, discuss them with your healthcare provider:
- Change in bowel habits: Persistent diarrhea or constipation lasting more than a few days.
- Blood in stool: This may appear as bright red blood or dark stools.
- Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying can be concerning.
- Abdominal discomfort: Frequent gas, cramping, or pain in the abdomen could indicate issues.
- Fatigue: Ongoing fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest may signify underlying problems.
The Importance of Early Detection
Catching colorectal cancer early can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. Regular screenings are vital, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer, a personal history of polyps, or certain inherited syndromes.
How Does a Colonoscopy Work and What Can It Detect?
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure a doctor uses to view the interior of the colon and rectum. It allows a doctor to check for any irritation, swelling, polyps, ulcers and cancer. Colonoscopy uses a colonoscope, a long, flexible tube the width of a finger with a small video camera and lighting at the end.
Colonoscopy might help diagnose:
- Colorectal cancer
- Colorectal polyps
- Colon perforation
- Chronic colitis
- Intestinal ischemia
- Ischemic colitis
- Diverticulosis
- Diverticulitis
- Ulcers
- Large bowel obstructions
When Should You Get a Colonoscopy?
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S., not counting certain skin cancers. Many cases of colorectal cancer may be avoided with routine and early colon cancer screening. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin screening at age 45. One of the most effective tools for this is a colonoscopy, which checks for polyps and cancer in the colon.
Colonoscopy may also be recommended if you experience these symptoms:
- Unexplained rectal discharge or bleeding.
- Persistent abdominal pain.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Unexplained diarrhea, incontinence, constipation or other bowel conditions.
How To Prepare for a Colonoscopy?
Before your colonoscopy, your doctor will give you instructions regarding food and what to drink to clean your colon. On the day of the procedure, you’ll be given medicine to help keep you comfortable. Some people get general anesthesia, which puts you in a deep sleep. Others may receive conscious sedation, which helps you relax and blocks pain but keeps you lightly awake. Your doctor will go over these options with you ahead of time.
Here’s what to expect from a colonoscopy:
- Before the test, your doctor will explain what you can eat and how to clean out your colon.
- On the day of the procedure, you’ll get medication to help you stay calm and comfortable. Most people fall asleep and don’t remember anything afterward.
- The doctor gently inserts a colonoscope, which is a flexible tube with a camera, through the rectum to view the colon’s lining.
- During the exam, your doctor may:
- Remove polyps
- Give medication
- Place a small stent
- Treat or seal any bleeding areas
The procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes. After the procedure, you will not be able to drive home. General anesthesia can slow thought processes, reduce reflexes and cause other side effects. Anesthesia usually takes about 24 hours to wear off completely, so make sure you have arranged a ride home ahead of time.
Seek Care Right Away
Our Direct Screen Colonoscopy Program offers a simplified and accessible way to complete your colon cancer screening:
- Colonoscopy without referral needed – you can schedule your screening colonoscopy without a prior visit to your doctor.
- Direct scheduling – call 469.940.4030 to book your procedure with a board-certified physician at Baylor Scott & White Surgicare Waxahachie.
- Insurance coverage – many insurance plans cover this preventive screening at no cost to the patient. Coordinate with your insurance provider for more information.
Learn more about other screening resources available at the links below: