Determine The Cause of Intestinal Problems With a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Colon polyps, abnormal growths on the inner surface of the large intestine, are one of the most common colorectal conditions, affecting roughly 15 to 20 percent of the adult population. They can occur anywhere in the large intestine or rectum, but are more commonly found in the left colon, sigmoid colon, or rectum. A flexible sigmoidoscopy is one of the best to detect polyps before they turn into colorectal cancer.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea, and other intestinal problems, the gastroenterology specialists at Northeastern Gastroenterology Associates can help determine possible causes with a flexible sigmoidoscopy exam.
Reasons to Consider Scheduling a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Procedure
A flexible sigmoidoscopy can identify causes of intestinal issues such as abdominal pain or chronic diarrhea
The procedure can detect polyps in the lower-colon before they turn into cancer
A flexible sigmoidoscopy can find cancer in the earliest stage, when it is most treatable
The procedure is quick and doesn’t typically cause pain
Our gastroenterology specialists go the necessary lengths to ensure your comfort
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Overview
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that gastroenterologist specialists use to perform a the visual examination of the inside of the rectum and lower part of the colon, called the sigmoid colon. This procedure is performed to help doctors find the cause of lower gastrointestinal symptoms including diarrhea, constipation, or rectal bleeding as well as evaluate for early signs of colorectal cancer in the lower colon and rectum. This procedure is performed to help find the cause of lower gastrointestinal symptoms including diarrhea, rectal bleeding, or constipation as well as evaluate for early signs of cancer in the lower colon and rectum. In addition to being used to investigate intestinal signs and symptoms, a flexible sigmoidoscopy may be recommended if you are 50 years of age or older with no risk factors of colon cancer other than age — which puts you at average risk.
What To Expect
Like a colonoscopy, a flexible sigmoidoscopy is a type of exam called an endoscope. Your doctor will carefully insert a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and a video camera into your rectum and colon. This will allow the doctor to see the inside of your digestive tract. After carefully examining the lower part of the colon, your doctor may be able to diagnose the cause of diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulosis, bowel obstruction, anal fissures, and hemorrhoids, as well as find colon polyps that might be in this lower part of the colon. While this procedure may be slightly uncomfortable, it is not typically painful. One the examination is complete, you will be able to return to your normal diet and routine.
How To Prep For A Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Proper preparation is essential to the success of a flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure. For the most effective results, the lower colon and rectum must be thoroughly cleansed so that the doctor will be able to fully evaluate the colon lining for polyps or other abnormalities. Your doctor should provide you with specific instructions to follow, which typically involves taking a laxative, avoiding solid foods, and only drinking clear liquids a day or two before the procedure is scheduled. Keep in mind, if you are one any medications or have a medical history of conditions your flexible sigmoidoscopy preparation instructions may be different.