Colonoscopy Specialist
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Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology
Mehrdad Asgeri, MD
Gastroenterologist located in Palm Springs, CA & Rancho Mirage, CA
A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure that can help to diagnose many digestive tract problems — and it’s also a highly effective colon cancer screening tool. At Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology, top-rated gastroenterologist Mehrdad Asgeri, MD, uses this powerful technology to detect problems in only around half-an-hour. Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology, located in Palm Springs serves Rancho Mirage, Indio, La Quinta, and Palm Desert, CA. Call the Palm Springs, California, office or click the online appointment maker to book your colonoscopy now.
Colonoscopy Q & A
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure to evaluate your large intestine from within. Through a colonoscopy, Dr. Asgeri can check for problems, diagnose the cause of abdominal issues, and screen for the indicators of colorectal (colon and rectal) cancer. This minimally invasive procedure takes only about 30 minutes.
When might I need a colonoscopy?
Dr. Asgeri may recommend a colonoscopy during the diagnostic process if you have symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Anemia
- Blood in your stool
- Rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
Additionally, colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. During a colonoscopy, Dr. Asgeri can check for polyps, which often precede colon cancer, and for other early indicators of colorectal cancer.
When should I start colon cancer screening?
The American Cancer Society, American College of Gastroenterology, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) all recommend starting colon cancer screening at the age of 45. This applies to both sexes, as men and women are equally at risk.
However, if you have one or more immediate relatives with polyps or colon cancer, you should start screening earlier. The typical formula is to subtract 10 years from the age of the youngest immediate relative with colon cancer to find the right time to start screening tests — or age 40, whichever is younger.
How do I get ready for a colonoscopy?
A member of the Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology team gives you colonoscopy prep guidelines before your scheduled procedure. You normally need to take steps to clear your colon in the days ahead of the procedure. Such steps typically include a clear-liquid diet and laxatives.
These steps remove all stool and residue so Dr. Asgeri can better visualize the area and diagnose problems.
What does a colonoscopy involve?
During your colonoscopy, Dr. Asgeri moves a flexible thin instrument, a colonoscope, through your rectum and colon. A camera inside the colonoscope allows Dr. Asgeri to evaluate your rectum and colon up close.
Should he discover any polyps during your procedure, Dr. Asgeri can remove them at that time. He may also take a small tissue sample for testing (biopsy).
After examining your entire colon and rectum, Dr. Asgeri gradually removes the colonoscope. You go into a recovery room for a short while, and he can review preliminary results with you then.
After that, a loved one can drive you home. Because you receive light sedation for the procedure, you may be a little drowsy. Generally, you’ll need to rest at home for the remainder of the day. You may have an appointment in the next week or two to discuss results in detail.
Book your colonoscopy by calling Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology or by clicking the online scheduling tool now.