The Benefits & Side Effects of Colonoscopy

Thanks to Katie Couric, awareness of colon cancer and other diseases related to a dirty colon has dramatically increased. And now, more and more Americans and other people around the world are becoming interested in getting a colonoscopy. You may be among these people. But before you undergo this test, it will be better to get acquainted with its benefits and possible side effects.



Despite the side effects of colonoscopy, more and more people, like Katie Couric, have undergone the colonoscopy process. The following benefits pushed them to continue the process and disregard its possible side effects:

* Effective colorectal cancer screening. Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the world. However, only about 50 percent of the population has undergone colonoscopy.
* Colorectal polyps diagnosis and treatment. Colorectal polyps are the seeds of colorectal cancer. So before the polyps become cancer, it will be better to treat these immediately. Colonoscopy can diagnose the presence of polyps. More than that, this process is capable of removing the polyps too.
* Other colon problems diagnosis and treatment. Many experts say that the colon is among the most common source of deadly diseases, discomforts, and simple health problems. However, the colon is also one of the most neglected parts of the body. This is why with colonoscopy, the doctors can identify whether your colon is healthy or not. Other colon problems like colitis, colorectal lining inflammation, and colon bleeding can be diagnosed too. These simple colon problems can possibly be treated through colonoscopy as well.

Despite these benefits, many people still have second thoughts whether to undergo a colonoscopy or not. Just like many other effective procedures, the colonoscopy has its own side effects too. Here are some colonoscopy drawbacks:

* Disruption of the colon’s nature. Experts say that frequent colonoscopy may damage the natural work of the colon. Frequent drinking of laxatives or enemas can also damage the natural processes of the colon.
* Abnormal stools. People with already disrupted stools may experience worsening bowel movements if colonoscopy is done more than the recommended frequency.
* Colon complications. Though rare, it is still possible that the patient gets an infection or ulceration after the colonoscopy.
* Increased blood clotting risks. This may happen by taking anesthesia.
* False sense of colon health security. Though effective, some doctors may still miss the presence of small and large tumors. This usually happens if the doctor diagnoses a lot of patients in a day, making him unable to accurately perform colonoscopy.
* Excessive dehydration. Colonoscopy requires the use of a laxative and other drugs like golytely to clean up the colon for more accurate diagnosis.
* Bloating, cramps, and flatulence.
* Chronic constipation.

Enema, laxative, golytely, and other colonoscopy drawbacks are not so bad as to withdraw from undergoing colonoscopy. Katie Couric and more advocates of colon cancer awareness believe that these side effects are nothing compared to a life that can be saved by early detection and treatment of possible colorectal cancer.

The final say is always yours, anyway. Will you be brave enough like Katie Couric and disregard laxatives, enemas, and golytely? Or will you be too scared to face the side effects for your own wellness? Just keep in mind that whatever you choose, it is always better to seek a doctor’s advice.