What Is Colonoscopy Recommended For?

Posted on Wed, 12 Aug 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 12 Aug 2015 Answered on

Tue, 1 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi doctor. I am a 60 year old male and when I see my regular doctor, he would like me to get a colon checkup which includes the horrible tasting laxative and the rectal camera. I know I should probably get it, but am hesitant to do so. I have checked up on some of the symptoms and feel that I don't have any. But want to know if at my age I should get the test and are my chances good that my lack of symptoms might mean no cancer?

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It could be regular check up.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Colonoscopy is usually advised when there is bleeding per rectum,alteration of bowel habits,family history of Colon cancer etc.
If there are no symptoms,chances of Colon cancer are rare.
Some patients with Carcinoma caecum present with occult blood in the stool.They present with anaemia.
As your doctor advised ,it is better to go with Colonoscopy.

If you are otherwise hale and healthy please do not be worried about cancers right away.

Hope it will be normal. If you have any questions,i will clarify further.
Wish you good health.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad