Shedding Light on Your Colon: A Comprehensive Guide to Colonoscopy
The colon, also known as the large intestine, is an essential part of your digestive system. It plays a crucial role in absorbing water and electrolytes from digested food waste before eliminating it from the body. Maintaining a healthy colon is vital for overall well-being. However, polyps, which are abnormal growths of tissue, can develop on the lining of the colon. These polyps can sometimes turn cancerous over time. This is where colonoscopy comes in. What is a Colonoscopy? A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inner lining of your entire colon. It is used for both screening and diagnosis. During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope is inserted through the rectum and into the colon. The colonoscope has a tiny camera at the tip that transmits images of the colon lining to a screen. The doctor can then examine the lining for abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, or ulcers. Who Needs a Colonoscopy? Colo...