Colonoscopy Explained: When You Need One, How to Prepare, and What It Detects
For many people, the word colonoscopy immediately brings up concerns about discomfort, bowel preparation, and whether the procedure is really necessary. However, a colonoscopy is one of the most valuable tools available for examining the colon and rectum. It can help doctors investigate unexplained digestive symptoms, detect colorectal cancer at an earlier stage, and identify precancerous polyps that can often be removed before they become cancerous . As a gastroenterologist in Chandigarh, Dr. Sandeep Pal helps patients understand when a colonoscopy may be appropriate, how to prepare for it, and what happens during and after the procedure. What Is a Colonoscopy? A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum . During the procedure, a gastroenterologist uses a thin, flexible instrument called a colonoscope , which has a small camera attached to it. The camera sends images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to carefu...
