To begin with, just as the name suggests, a colonoscopy clinic is a specialized medical facility where professionals perform colonoscopies. A colonoscopy is a specialized procedure to examine the colon and rectum.
During a colonoscopy, the providers at your colonoscopy clinic in Singapore will insert a long, flexible tube with a camera at the end into the rectum to check for abnormalities. The abnormalities which will be the focus here include polyps or signs of colorectal cancer.
During the procedure, patients are typically sedated for comfort during the procedure. Also, the procedure doesn’t take too much time, usually taking just about 30 minutes. On this page, we clarify the diseases that can be detected during your colonoscopy in Singapore. Read on!
What Diseases can be detected by a Colonoscopy?
When it comes to colorectal health, colonoscopies serve various purposes. They can be used as preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures.
You may need to visit a colonoscopy clinic in Singapore for routine cancer screening, especially if you’re at higher risk. This is important because colorectal cancer can be sneaky—often developing without symptoms.
During a colonoscopy, suspicious tissues can be removed for testing and prevention. If you’re wondering what other diseases can be detected during your visit to a colonoscopy clinic in Singapore, here is a quick list you may find helpful;
- Chronic Colitis (Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s Disease): Colonoscopy can detect signs of chronic inflammation in the colon, which are characteristic of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. These conditions can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. As with other conditions, early detection of chronic colitis is crucial for managing these chronic inflammatory bowel diseases.
- Intestinal Ischemia and Ischemic Colitis: Colonoscopy can reveal signs of intestinal ischemia. These conditions occur when blood flow to the colon is restricted, something which may lead to tissue damage. Ischemic colitis is a type of intestinal ischemia that can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools. A colonoscopy can help diagnose these conditions and guide treatment.
- Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis: Diverticulosis is a common condition where small pouches (diverticula) form in the colon wall. These pouches can become inflamed or infected. It is the inflammation or infection that may lead to the formation of diverticulitis. Colonoscopy can detect diverticula and signs of inflammation and play a key role in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.
- Ulcers and Perforations: Colonoscopy can identify ulcers. Typically, these are open sores in the colon which can be caused by various factors ranging from inflammatory bowel disease to infection, or even medications. In severe cases, ulcers can lead to perforations (holes) in the colon wall. A colonoscopy can help diagnose and monitor these conditions.
- Large Bowel Obstructions: Colonoscopy can detect blockages or obstructions in the large intestine. These issues can be a result of various conditions ranging from tumors, to scar tissue, inflammatory bowel disease, etc. Identifying these obstructions is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach.
- Colorectal Polyps and Colorectal Cancer: Perhaps the most well-known benefit of colonoscopy is its ability to detect colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer. Polyps are abnormal growths in the colon lining. These growths while not always dangerous can potentially develop into cancer over time. Colonoscopy allows for the detection and removal of polyps to significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
What are the Signs that you should have a Colonoscopy?
To begin, good colorectal health is crucial for your overall well-being. Here’s where visiting a good colonoscopy clinic in Singapore comes in.
With routine colonoscopies, you are best placed to detect colorectal cancer and other conditions early before they can wreak havoc on you. But you do not have to wait for the routine screenings. Here are six signs that may indicate the need for a colonoscopy;
- Rectal Bleeding: Blood in your stools or bleeding from the rectum isn’t something you will want to take casually. It can be indicative of various conditions, ranging from colorectal cancer or colon polyps. While it can be caused by other less serious conditions, for example, hemorrhoids, it’s essential to have it checked by a professional in a good colonoscopy clinic in Singapore.
- Changes in Bowel Habits: Also, persistent changes in bowel habits, for example, diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, should not be ignored. These changes could be indicative of colorectal issues that require further investigation.
- Abdominal Pain: Unexplained abdominal pain, especially if it’s severe and persistent also isn’t natural. It could be a sign of colorectal problems. In particular, pain that occurs with other symptoms, like bloating or weight loss, should prompt a visit to your healthcare provider.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Are you losing weight without trying? You could be dealing with various underlying health issues including colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy may be recommended to investigate the cause of unexplained weight loss.
- Persistent Fatigue: Chronic fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest could be a symptom of colorectal cancer. It could also be indicative of other conditions that affect the digestive system. If you’re experiencing persistent fatigue along with other symptoms, make arrangements to consult a colonoscopy specialist.
- Family History of Colorectal Cancer: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or certain hereditary conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), your risk of developing colorectal cancer is higher. In such cases, your primary care provider or colonoscopy specialist may recommend regular colonoscopies to detect any abnormalities early.
In Closing
A colonoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool for detecting a wide range of diseases and conditions that affect the colon and rectum. In particular, it plays a crucial role in the early detection and management of diseases or conditions that affect the colon and rectum. To learn more about colonoscopies in Singapore or schedule an assessment to see if you need one, call or visit the Alpine Surgical Practice at;
Alpine Surgical Practice
MOUNT ELIZABETH (ORCHARD)
3 Mount Elizabeth #14-06
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
+65 6322 7323