Are There Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, also referred to as “piles,” are one of the most common problems in the general population. It is estimated that hemorrhoids will affect 75% of American adults at some point in their lifetime. They represent swollen veins in the area of the anus and rectum and can develop inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or below the skin of the anus (external hemorrhoids). Common symptoms of hemorrhoids may include pain/discomfort, itching/irritation, rectal bleeding, and a swelling or lump near the anus. Embarrassment, fear of pain, and long recovery times are all common worries that prevent many individuals from seeking the treatment they need. As a result, many people with hemorrhoids opt for self-treatment with home remedies. Though the below remedies can help treat hemorrhoids, if you are suffering from this condition it is always better to first make an appointment with your physician!

Warm sitz baths

Warm sitz baths are a mainstay of the treatment of hemorrhoids. The word “sitz” is derived from the German word, “sitzen,” which refers to the act of sitting. Sitting in a tub of warm water that is filled just enough to cover your legs and buttocks will help to ease the swelling and irritation caused by hemorrhoids. Alternately, sitz baths may be performed in a small plastic tub that fits over a toilet seat. The temperature of the water should be lukewarm, as high temperatures can cause more harm than relief. For optimal results, sitz baths should be taken for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day, especially after a bowel movement. You may also choose to add other ingredients, such as Epsom salt, essential oil, or baking soda, to the bath in order to help reduce hemorrhoid symptoms even further.

Witch hazel

Witch hazel is a wildly popular home treatment for hemorrhoids. It is an astringent, which is one of the main properties that makes it ideal for treating hemorrhoids. Witch hazel’s astringent properties reduce the swelling in hemorrhoid tissue, which causes shrinkage and relief of associated pain and itching. Furthermore, substances called tannins present in witch hazel also have anti-inflammatory properties, which further reduces swelling. It’s okay to use witch hazel directly on hemorrhoids by adding a small amount to a cotton ball and gently wiping the affected area several times a day, especially after a bowel movement. Witch hazel should not be diluted with alcohol, as this can dry out and irritate the hemorrhoid even more.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. As a result, it can provide relief from the burning, itching, and swelling caused by hemorrhoids. It has also been shown to activate the immune system, enabling the body to combat any infections that may accompany the irritated areas around the anus and rectum. Aloe vera can be purchased commercially or harvested directly from the leaves of the plant. You should only use pure aloe vera gel on hemorrhoids, as additives and preservatives can make symptoms worse. Simply apply aloe vera generously to the affected area via a gentle massaging action, which can be repeated 2 to 3 times a week. You can enhance the inflammation-fighting properties of aloe vera by refrigerating it 15 to 20 minutes before application.

Essential oils

Essential oils are overlooked as natural home remedies for hemorrhoids. The anti-inflammatory activity of essential oils shrinks the swollen veins and, thus, reduces the swelling and pain of hemorrhoids. Furthermore, they provide needed support for weakened veins, which may prevent reoccurrence of hemorrhoids. Essential oils may also provide useful hormones, vitamins, and nutrients. The following essential oils may be used as home remedies for hemorrhoids:

  • Tea tree oil

To unleash its therapeutic effects, mix 2 drops of tea tree oil in 1 teaspoon of castor oil, transfer the mixture to a cotton ball, and apply it to the affected area. You may repeat the process twice in a week.

  • Frankincense oil

To utilize its healing properties, mix 2 drops of frankincense oil with 2 tablespoons of liquid lanolin and gently massage the concoction into the affected area.

  • Patchouli oil

In the rare case of a ruptured hemorrhoid, the oil can also enhance the growth of reparative tissue. For best effect, add 3 drops of patchouli oil to 1 teaspoon of sweet almond oil and apply to the affected area once per day.

Over-the-counter medications

The market is full of over-the-counter (OTC) ointments, creams, suppositories, and pads for relief from the annoying symptoms of hemorrhoids. For example, Preparation H® is a very popular cream and can be found in almost every pharmacy on the planet. These OTC products may contain various substances, such as witch hazel (an astringent), hydrocortisone (a steroid), and lidocaine (an topical numbing agent), that provide temporary relief and help your hemorrhoid heal faster. However, you should not use a formulation with hydrocortisone in it for more than a week at a time, as steroids can cause thinning of the skin. In addition, OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Motrin®), may be helpful.

Wet wipes

It is very important to clean the rectal area as to make it free of any stray fecal matter, which could add to the irritation of hemorrhoids. Furthermore, using toilet paper after a bowel movement can only aggravate matters when suffering from hemorrhoids. Instead, wet wipes can be very effective at cleaning the rectal area without causing further irritation of existing hemorrhoids. For an added boost, choose wet wipes with anti-hemorrhoid ingredients such as witch hazel or aloe vera, which are not only soothing but also help hasten the resolution of hemorrhoids. Avoid wet wipes with added alcohol or perfumes, as these ingredients have the potential to increase irritation of existing hemorrhoids.

Ice packs

Applying ice packs to angry hemorrhoids can definitely be effective at relieving pain and inflammation. In addition to reducing swelling, the cold temperatures also have a numbing effect, which helps to temporarily decrease pain. You should always be sure to wrap the ice in a small towel, as applying ice directly to the skin can cause damage and add to the irritation of hemorrhoids. Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes at least 3 times per day. For maximum effect, use this treatment after a warm sitz bath, as the sitz bath dilates the veins in the rectum and anus and ice packs contract them.

Epsom salt

Epsom salt has many medicinal applications, and the at-home treatment of hemorrhoids is one of the most popular applications. Magnesium sulfate, the active ingredient in Epsom salt, is absorbed through the skin with ease and works by causing shrinkage in enlarged hemorrhoids, which can also relieve pain. Soaking in Epsom salt also enhances the healing of damaged and bleeding hemorrhoids. It can also boost the effect of other at-home hemorrhoid treatments such as warm sitz baths. In a lesser known hemorrhoid treatment, Epsom salt can be combined with glycerin. You can mix 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt with 2 tablespoons of glycerin, apply the mixture to a gauze pad, and apply it to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes. This process can be repeated several times per day.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is another tried and true home remedy to naturally treat hemorrhoids. When applied topically, its anti-inflammatory properties decrease inflammation and relieve pain as well as accelerate the healing of hemorrhoids. In addition, coconut oil has antibacterial characteristics, helping to keep the affected area clean and free of infection. It may even curb the itching associated with the irritated hemorrhoid area. It’s easy to use, just transfer coconut oil to a cotton ball and apply it directly to hemorrhoids for 5 to 10 minutes several times per day.

Black tea bags

Black tea contains tannic acid, which has astringent properties. The acid is an ideal treatment for inflamed hemorrhoids, as it reduces swelling and discomfort. Are you wondering how to use a black tea bag to treat hemorrhoids? Immerse a black tea bag in a cup of lukewarm water and let it rest for several minutes in the water. While it’s still warm, apply the wet tea bag to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes. The process can be repeated 2 or 3 times per day. You can switch it up and use frozen tea bags to instead of warm ones.

In addition to the above home remedies, it’s important to keep a few other measures in mind for the treatment and prevention of hemorrhoids. You should avoid tight clothing and make sure you wear loose cotton clothing, especially breathable cotton underwear, as this could potentially diminish symptoms. In addition, avoid potential irritants such as perfumed detergents and fabric softeners. Lastly, you should make sure you incorporate enough fiber into your diet and hydrate with at least 8 glasses of water per day. Consider a fiber supplement such as psyllium (Metamucil® is made of psyllium husks). You should gradually increase your fiber intake, because if done too quickly, there could be side effects such as excessive gas and abdominal pain/cramping. These dietary changes can go a long way at reducing constipation and making the stool softer and easier to pass, which could potentially prevent recurrences of hemorrhoids.

Most importantly however, is to make an appointment to see your physician if symptoms do not abate! La Peer is home to a number of expert colorectal surgeons who can help you gain relief from hemorrhoids.

Colorectal Diseases and Treatments: Sitting Down with a Colorectal Specialist

Colon and rectal, or colorectal, diseases encompass a wide range of conditions and disorders, which can have mild to life-threatening consequences. Like many other diseases, especially cancer, early detection through screenings has the potential to significantly improve quality of life, treatment outcomes, and even overall survival rates among patients. Yet, many patients are too embarrassed or remain uninformed about alarming symptoms and the benefits of early detection and treatment of colorectal diseases, which delays or even prevents them from seeking treatment. Common colorectal disorders include the following:

Colorectal cancer

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), it is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer as well as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women in the US. The ACS also recommends adults at average risk for colon cancer commence regular screening at the age of 45.

Hemorrhoids

They represent swollen veins near or around the anus and rectum, and by age 50, almost half of all adults will have experienced symptoms (pain, itching, bleeding, and/or sensitive lumps) of this very common ailment.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

This is comprised of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Ulcerative colitis effects the colon (large bowel), while Crohn’s disease can technically occur anywhere between the mouth and the anus. Medications may control IBD, but there are patients that require surgical management of their disease.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Classic symptoms with this ailment include abdominal pain, bloating, and cramping accompanied by either diarrhea or constipation. Stress may make the disease worse.

Diverticular disease

Results in pockets (diverticula) in the wall of the colon, which can get infected intermittently and cause diverticulitis. This disease is typically a consequence of aging.

Anal fissures

Represents a small tear in the lining of the anus and can be quite painful, especially when having a bowel movement. The majority of fissures heal on their own with no need for surgery.

Bowel incontinence

Mild cases may be managed non-operatively, but moderate to severe cases may require injection of a bulking agent in the anus, placement of a nerve stimulator, or surgical intervention.

As there is much overlap with symptoms of colorectal diseases, as well as the probability of misdiagnosis/mistreatment, you should always be evaluated by a colorectal surgeon if you are experiencing these types of symptoms. This type of surgeon is an expert in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of colorectal ailments. One such expert is Karen Zaghiyan, MD, a board-certified colorectal surgeon who practices minimally-invasive colorectal surgery in Los Angeles at La Peer Health Systems. We sat down with Dr. Zaghiyan for a Q&A session to learn more about her process and how she helps La Peer patients.

Q: What first sparked your interest in the colorectal field?

A: Colorectal cancer runs in my family. So, while in college, I became interested in learning about the gastrointestinal tract and how it works, and while in medical school, I spent some time in the lab researching colon cancer. It wasn’t until surgical residency, however, that I discovered how rewarding colorectal surgery was. During residency, I was exposed to the vastly different subspecialties of surgery and found immense satisfaction in doing a major colorectal operation to cure cancer or inflammatory bowel disease one day, and the next, I could do a hemorrhoidectomy or anal fistula surgery and restore the one part of the body nobody wants to talk or think about. I found great satisfaction in the powerful doctor-patient connection when a patient trusts you with their BUTT—literally!

Q: What are some of the most common reasons patients come to you in need of colorectal surgery?

A: Hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and anal fistulae are some of the most common colorectal conditions for which patients seek my expertise. Almost 4.5% of the population seeks medical advice for hemorrhoids alone, so by sheer numbers, I see many patients with hemorrhoids every week. Thankfully, I can often help these patients with office treatments alone and only a few will actually need surgery. I also see many patients needing surgery for colorectal cancer, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, rectal prolapse, and fecal incontinence.

Q: Is there a new or innovative colorectal procedure that you would like to highlight?

A: Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) is one of the most cutting-edge operations in colorectal surgery right now. TaTME is performed for rectal cancer and ulcerative colitis, which allows the rectum to be removed without an abdominal wound and helps patients recover faster with less pain and better results. I am proud to say I have one of the largest experiences in this technique in the country and am one of the only surgeons on the West Coast currently performing this surgery.

The other “new” procedure is sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) for fecal incontinence (or bowel leakage problems). This procedure is actually not all that new, but for some reason, many patients and doctors don’t know it exists. SNS is a safe and simple outpatient procedure that can give patients suffering from bowel leakage their life back, and I am proud to be one of few doctors in the Los Angeles area treating fecal incontinence with SNS.

Q: Can you talk a bit about your time spent in Singapore?

A: During the end of my fellowship training in colorectal surgery, I went to Singapore to learn from masters in colorectal surgery from all around the world. It was a phenomenal experience that opened my eyes to the rapid growth and innovation of our field and what can be achieved if we think outside the box, learn from each other, and are open to change. I came back to the U.S. eager to apply what I had learned and push the limits to continue to advance our field with new techniques.

Q: Is there a particularly memorable patient success story that you would like to share?

A: Seeing young patients get sick hurts my soul. I guess because “it’s not supposed to happen.” One of my favorite stories of hope I love to tell is that of a 35 year-old young mom with rectal cancer. I diagnosed her four years ago after she had been told over and over that her rectal bleeding was from hemorrhoids. I placed one finger inside her anus and knew what it was, nobody had checked before that. She was my age at the time and had young kids, like I did. To make it worse, the cancer had spread to her liver (Stage IV). After chemotherapy, radiation, a combined rectal resection (done by me) and liver surgery (done by a liver surgeon), then more chemotherapy, she was cancer-free. Four years have passed . . . I just did her colonoscopy and computed tomography (CT) scans . . . she remains cancer-free.

 

As you can see, colorectal disease is a diverse collection of conditions with a multitude of treatments. A colorectal specialist should be your guide on this treatment journey, and La Peer is grateful to have such a talented colorectal surgeon as Dr. Zaghiyan providing state-of-the-art care to our patients.

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men, yet many men fail to identify prostate cancer in its early stages. However, men who know the symptoms of prostate cancer may be better equipped than others to identify the disease and prevent it from spreading throughout the body.

There are many warning signs of prostate cancer in men. Common prostate cancer warning signs include:

  • Blood in the urine or semen
  • Erectile dysfunction (ED)
  • Slow or weak urinary stream
  • Weak or interrupted flow of urine
  • Frequent urge to urinate
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Rectum pain or pressure
  • Pain in the back, chest or hips
  • Numbness or weakness in the feet or legs

If a man experiences one or more of the aforementioned symptoms, it is important to consult with an expert urologist right away. That way, a man can receive a proper prostate cancer diagnosis and determine the best treatment option.

How Is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?

Prostate cancer screening is essential. Because the earlier a man identifies prostate cancer, the sooner he can treat this issue.

A urologist performs several tests to analyze a patient and provide an accurate prostate cancer diagnosis. These tests include:

  • Physical Exam: A urologist conducts a physical exam to learn about a patient’s current health. During a physical exam, a urologist also reviews a patient’s medical history and learns about a patient’s symptoms.
  • Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A urologist uses a DRE to identify prostate cancer. To perform a DRE, a urologist inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum, and he or she feels for any bumps or hard areas on the prostate. A DRE often helps a urologist determine if cancer is present on one or both sides of the prostate. If cancer is present on both sides of the prostate, this indicates the cancer likely has spread to nearby tissue.
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test: A urologist performs a PSA blood test primarily to screen for prostate cancer in men who display no symptoms. If prostate cancer develops, a man’s PSA level usually rises above 4. Men who have a PSA level between 4 and 10 have about a 25% chance of having prostate cancer, and the risk of having prostate cancer rises to 50% in men who have a PSA level that exceeds 10, the American Cancer Society (ACS) notes. On the other hand, men who have a PSA level below 4 may still have or develop prostate cancer.
  • Transrectual Ultrasound (TRUS): A urologist uses a TRUS to examine the prostate of a man who has a high PSA level or an abnormal DRE result. During a TRUS, a small probe that is approximately the width of a finger is lubricated and inserted into the rectum. Next, the probe produces sound waves that enter the prostate and create echoes. The probe detects the echoes, and a computer uses the echoes to produce a black and white image of the prostate.
  • Prostate Biopsy: A urologist typically performs a prostate biopsy if a PSA blood test or DRE indicates a man may have prostate cancer. During a prostate biopsy, a urologist removes small samples of a patient’s prostate and examines them under a microscope.

After comprehensive testing is completed, a urologist uses the Gleason system to assign a score to a patient’s prostate cancer. If prostate cancer has a Gleason score of 6 or less, it is considered well-differentiated or low-grade. Comparatively, prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 7 is moderately differentiated or intermediate-grade. Or, if prostate cancer has a Gleason score of 8 to 10, it is poorly differentiated or high-grade.

A patient’s Gleason score may dictate a urologist’s treatment recommendations. As such, a urologist allocates significant time and resources to perform in-depth testing and determine the correct Gleason score. He or she then offers personalized prostate cancer treatment recommendations.

How Is Prostate Cancer Treated?

There are many safe, effective prostate cancer treatments. These include:

  • Active Surveillance: Involves monitoring prostate cancer closely. During active surveillance, a patient may receive a PSA blood test and DRE every six months, as well as an annual prostate biopsy.
  • Surgery: Involves the removal of the entire prostate gland and surrounding tissue (radical prostatectomy).
  • Radiation Therapy: Involves the use of high-energy rays or particles to destroy cancer cells.
  • Cryotherapy: Involves the use of cold temperatures to freeze and eliminate prostate cancer cells.
  • Hormone Therapy: Involves reducing the number of male hormones (androgens) in the body or trying to stop these hormones from causing prostate cancer cells to grow.
  • Chemotherapy: Involves the use of anti-cancer drugs that are injected into a vein or given by mouth; chemotherapy drugs enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body.
  • Vaccination: Involves the use of the Sipuleuchel-T (Provenge) vaccine to boost the immune system and help it destroy prostate cancer cells.
  • Bone-Directed Treatment: Involves the use of bisphosphonates and other drugs to address cancer that has spread to the bone (bone metastasis) and related problems.

A urologist requests a full patient evaluation before offering a prostate cancer treatment recommendation. He or she is also happy to respond to a patient’s prostate cancer treatment concerns and questions and help this individual make an informed decision.

Is Prostate Cancer Preventable?

Prostate cancer is not preventable, and it can affect any man, at any time. Fortunately, men who identify prostate cancer early may be able to overcome this issue faster than others, which is reflected in recent ACS data.

ACS reports four out of five prostate cancers are found during the local stage, i.e. when the cancer is located exclusively in the prostate. Meanwhile, the relative five-year survival rate of patients with local prostate stage cancer is nearly 100%. Conversely, the relative five-year survival rate of patients with distant stage prostate cancer, i.e. prostate cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes, bones or other organs, is roughly 29%.

For those who believe they may be dealing with prostate cancer, it is always better to err on the side of caution. By meeting with a urologist, a man can receive a prostate cancer diagnosis. And if prostate cancer is discovered, there is no need to worry. A patient and urologist can work together to treat prostate cancer and prevent this issue from recurring.

Choose La Peer Health Systems for Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in American men, and approximately one in 41 men die from prostate cancer, ACS indicates. Yet most men who receive a prostate cancer diagnose can successfully treat the disease. In fact, ACS points out more than 2.9 million men have received a prostate cancer diagnosis and are still alive today.

Ultimately, prostate cancer is a serious disease, but it is treatable. If a man detects prostate cancer in its early stages, he can often address the cancer before it spreads throughout the body. Thus, if a man is concerned about prostate cancer, it is paramount to schedule a urological consultation as soon as possible.

When it comes to prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, there may be no better option than the Department of Urology at La Peer Health Systems. Our team of courteous, highly trained urologists works with patients to perform clinical and research testing. We also strive to provide a prostate cancer treatment that is minimally invasive and delivers proven results. To schedule a prostate cancer screening with our team of expert urologists, please contact us today at 855.360.9119.

How to Prepare for Your Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy preparation requires a patient to empty the colon. Otherwise, residue in the colon may obscure a doctor’s view of the colon and rectum during the exam.

A doctor provides a patient with detailed colonoscopy preparation instructions. In some instances, a doctor may offer one or more of the following recommendations to ensure a patient can empty the colon prior to a colonoscopy:

  • Follow a special diet. A doctor may request a patient stick to a diet of clean foods for at least three to four days before a colonoscopy. These foods include seedless fruits, lean meats, eggs, white bread and pasta; all of these foods are rich in fiber and help cleanse the colon. Additionally, a patient is unable to eat solid foods the day before a colonoscopy. A patient can drink liquids like coffee, tea and water at this time. Also, a patient likely won’t be able to drink any liquids after midnight the night prior to the exam.
  • Take a laxative. A laxative helps loosen stools, increase bowel movements and empty the colon. It may be taken as a pill or liquid. Oftentimes, a doctor requests a patient take a laxative the night before a colonoscopy or as a split-dose both the night before and the morning of the exam.
  • Utilize an enema kit. An enema helps cleanse the colon and alleviate constipation. Enema kits are available that make it easy to take an enema at home. In certain cases, a doctor recommends a patient use an enema kit the night before a colonoscopy or at least a few hours prior to the procedure.
  • Modify your medications. Some medications may require a patient to temporarily adjust his or her dosages or stop taking the medications in the days leading up to a colonoscopy. These medications include high blood pressure or diabetes medications, supplements that contain iron or aspirin that thins the blood.

Preparing for a colonoscopy may seem challenging at first, but a doctor can provide patient guidance and support in the days before a colonoscopy. And if a patient has any concerns or questions about colonoscopy preparation, a doctor is ready to respond to them.

Colonoscopy Preparation Tips

 There are many things that a patient can do to streamline the process of preparing for a colonoscopy. These include:

  1. Make a Plan

 A doctor may provide lots of information prior to a colonoscopy, and the sheer volume of colonoscopy preparation information may be overwhelming. However, a patient who takes the time to review a doctor’s colonoscopy preparation instructions can address any concerns or questions right away. Best of all, this patient can make a plan to follow a doctor’s instructions and increase the likelihood of a successful colonoscopy.

  1. Get Ready for a Laxative

 The mere thought of taking a laxative before a colonoscopy may cause stress, but there are many things that a patient can do to prepare for a laxative. If a patient is required to take a liquid laxative, it often helps to mix the laxative with a sports drink or other flavored beverages; that way, a patient can reduce or eliminate the unpleasant taste associated with a laxative.

It also is important to remember that once a laxative starts working, a patient may experience frequent diarrhea, cramps and bloating. Thus, a patient will want to do everything possible to stay comfortable in the bathroom at this time. Applying diaper cream before diarrhea begins may help alleviate pain and discomfort. Keeping moist or medicated wipes on hand enables a patient to clean himself or herself as needed. And if a patient keeps reading material in the bathroom, he or she can stay entertained until a laxative’s effects subside.

  1. Focus on the End Results

 The final hours prior to a colonoscopy can be tough, even for a patient who considers himself or herself to be a strong, resilient individual. When the going gets tough, it is important to remember why a patient is choosing to undergo a colonoscopy in the first place.

A colonoscopy allows an individual to identify colon cancer and other intestinal issues. It enables a patient to visualize ulcers, colon polyps, tumors, inflammation and bleeding in the large intestine and the distal part of the small bowel. If a doctor finds any growths during a colonoscopy, he or she can work with a patient to determine the best-possible treatment.

Reasons to Schedule a Colonoscopy

A man or woman can undergo a colonoscopy to detect colorectal cancer, i.e. cancer that starts at the colon or rectum, in its early stages. By doing so, a patient may be able to identify colorectal cancer before it spreads throughout the body.

American Cancer Society (ACS) notes colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer in men and women in the United States. Furthermore, an estimated 97,220 new cases of colon cancer and 43,030 new cases of rectal cancer will be diagnosed this year, according to ACS.

Colorectal cancer is problematic, but it is treatable. ACS points out the death rate from colorectal cancer in men and women in the United States has been declining for several decades. In fact, there are currently more than 1 million colorectal cancer survivors in the United States, and this number may continue to rise thanks in part to colonoscopies.

Ultimately, a colonoscopy offers a great opportunity for a man or women to track colorectal cancer and intestinal problems before they escalate. The procedure allows a doctor to explore potential causes of abdominal pain, chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea and rectal bleeding. Plus, a colonoscopy is generally a safe, effective procedure with minimal risk.

A doctor may recommend a colonoscopy every 10 years for men and women 50 years of age and older. The risk of colon cancer and related problems is higher in African Americans than others, and as such, a doctor may recommend an African American man or woman undergo regular colon cancer screenings starting at the age of 45. If an individual has a family history of colon cancer or similar issues, he or she also may benefit from regular colonoscopies starting at age 45.

Schedule a Colonoscopy with La Peer Health Systems Today

A colonoscopy can make a world of difference, yet preparing for a colon cancer screening sometimes is difficult. Fortunately, La Peer Health Systems is happy to help men and women get ready for colonoscopies. Our gastroenterology department employs friendly, knowledgeable surgeons who can provide comprehensive insights into colonoscopies and colonoscopy preparation. As a result, we will guide you through all aspects of a colonoscopy and ensure you are prepared for this procedure. To find out more about our colonoscopies and other GI procedures, please contact us today at 855.360.9119.