What Diseases Can Be Detected by a Colonoscopy?

How are the Diseases Detected by a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test that helps doctors check the inside of the colon and rectum. It uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the end. The doctor inserts this tube through the anus to look for any problems. This test helps find diseases early, which makes treatment more effective.

Doctors recommend colonoscopies for several reasons:

Cancer Screening: People over 45 should have regular screenings.
Unexplained Symptoms: Pain, bleeding, diarrhoea, or weight loss may need further investigation.
Family History: A history of colon cancer or polyps increases the risk.

Diseases That Can Be Diagnosed with a Colonoscopy

Diseases that can be detected through colonoscopy are as follows:

Colorectal Cancer

Doctors use colonoscopy to check for colorectal cancer. This cancer starts as small growths called polyps. These polyps can turn cancerous over time. The doctor can remove them during the test to reduce the risk of cancer. Early detection improves the chances of successful treatment.

Polyps in the Colon

Polyps are small, and there are abnormal growths on the colon lining. Not all polyps turn into cancer, but some do. Removing them prevents serious problems later. People over 45 should get regular colonoscopies to check for polyps.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

A colonoscopy helps diagnose inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This condition includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both cause long-term inflammation in the digestive tract. People with IBD often have diarrhoea, stomach pain, and weight loss. The test helps doctors see the affected areas and decide on treatment.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract. In the colon, it causes inflammation, ulcers, and swelling. A colonoscopy helps doctors see the damage and plan treatment. This disease does not have a cure, but medication can help control symptoms.

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis affects only the colon. It causes sores, swelling, and bleeding. People with this disease often have bloody diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and weight loss. A colonoscopy helps confirm the diagnosis and check the severity of the condition.

Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis

Diverticulosis happens when small pouches, called diverticula, form in the colon wall. These pouches do not always cause problems. However, if they become infected or inflamed, the condition turns into diverticulitis. Symptoms include pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. A colonoscopy helps detect these pouches and confirm inflammation.

Colonic Strictures

A colonic stricture is a narrowing in the colon that makes it hard for waste to pass. It can happen due to inflammation, previous surgeries, or cancer. This condition may cause pain, constipation, and bloating. A colonoscopy helps locate strictures and guide treatment.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Blood in the stool can be a sign of many conditions. A colonoscopy helps find the cause of gastrointestinal bleeding. The doctor looks for ulcers, polyps, or inflamed areas that might be bleeding. Finding the source helps in choosing the right treatment.

Microscopic Colitis

Some people experience chronic watery diarrhoea without any visible colon damage. This condition is called microscopic colitis. The doctor takes a small tissue sample during the colonoscopy and examines it under a microscope. This test helps confirm the diagnosis.

Colon Infections

Certain bacterial or parasitic infections affect the colon. They cause symptoms like diarrhoea, pain, and fever. A colonoscopy helps find signs of infection and confirm the need for further tests.

Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum. They cause pain, itching, and bleeding. While doctors usually diagnose them through a simple exam, a colonoscopy can help rule out other causes of bleeding. A colonoscopy helps detect many diseases, from cancer to minor digestive issues. Early detection allows for better treatment and improved health. People experiencing symptoms or at risk should consult a doctor and schedule a screening.