If you’re worried about some digestive issues you’ve been having, you should consider ordering a colonoscopy near me Waller County, TX. A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that can help diagnose and treat various digestive issues, such as colon cancer, polyps, and Crohn’s disease. While the thought of a colonoscopy may be intimidating, it is a routine procedure that is both safe and effective.

Whether you’re at an increased risk of colon cancer, experiencing digestive symptoms, or simply want to stay proactive about your health, a colonoscopy can be an important tool for identifying and treating potential issues. At Katy Stomach Doctor, we offer plenty of exams and procedures to help you take control of your digestive health. Dr. James Maher is committed to maintaining open dialogue and keeping his patients informed of their choices for treatment.

Call our stomach clinic today if you’d like to schedule a colonoscopy or discuss our other gastroenterology services. Our Katy office is conveniently located near I-10 and Greenhouse Road.

Reasons to Request a Colonoscopy Near Me Waller County, TX

If you find yourself suffering from any of the following bowel or digestive system issues, you should consider looking for a certified stomach doctor to perform a colonoscopy near me Waller County, TX:

Rectal bleeding: A noticeable amount of blood in the stool or rectal bleeding can be a sign of colon cancer, which is why it’s important to have it evaluated by a doctor.
Persistent diarrhea or constipation: Chronic changes in bowel habits can be a major sign of colon cancer or other digestive issues, so it’s important to have them evaluated by a doctor.
Abdominal pain or cramping: If you experience persistent abdominal pain or cramping, it may be a sign of a problem with your colon or other parts of your digestive system.
Unexplained weight loss: If you find yourself losing weight and you’re not trying to, it can be a sign of many different health problems, including colon cancer.
Family history of colon cancer: If your family has a history of colon cancer or other digestive diseases, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy earlier and more frequently than someone without a family history.
Age: It is recommended that people start screening for colon cancer at age 45, so if you are over this age, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy as part of routine screening.

It’s important to remember that although these health symptoms can be signs of colon cancer or other digestive problems, they can also be caused by less serious conditions. The only person who can tell you what’s causing these symptoms is a doctor, so it’s important to talk to one if you have any of them.

How a Colonoscopy Works

Knowing how a colonoscopy works can help you feel more at ease about the procedure. Before we discuss what happens during the test, let’s first talk about how to prepare for it.

To fully prepare for a colonoscopy, you need to follow some steps recommended by your doctor. Dr. Maher will tell you exactly what you need to do before the exam. Make sure to follow his instructions to the letter to ensure that the procedure goes as smoothly as possible. Failure to adhere to these instructions means you may not have your colon properly cleaned out, which can lead to inaccurate test results.

You might be asked to change your diet a few days before the test and only eat certain foods. Before the test, Dr. Maher may tell you to eat less fiber for a few days. You might also need to stay away from solid foods for a day or two before the test and only drink clear liquids. Foods with red or purple dye should be avoided since it can mess up the test.

Your doctor may give you medicine to clean out your colon before the test, including laxatives. Be sure to carefully follow instructions for taking these medications. Additionally, you need to arrange for someone else to drive you home after the test is over, as you will be drowsy from the sedatives given to you before the test.

On the day of the colonoscopy, wear loose and comfortable clothes and leave your valuables at home. Try to arrive at the clinic early so you have time to finish completing any paperwork, such as patient forms.

What Happens During the Procedure

During a colonoscopy, you will be given medication to make you feel relaxed and drowsy. Then, a doctor will insert a flexible tube with a tiny camera into your rectum and up into your colon. The camera sends pictures to a screen that the doctor watches, allowing them to see any potential problems in your colon.

After the colonoscopy, you will rest for a little while as the medication wears off. You may feel bloated and gassy, and you may pass some gas.

After the test, Dr. Maher will discuss the results with you. If your results turn out to be normal, you won’t need another colonoscopy for several years, depending on your age and risk factors. If the doctor found anything concerning, such as polyps or abnormal tissue growths, they may recommend further testing or treatment.

Post-Test Care Instructions

You should follow your doctor’s instructions for post-test care, which may include:

Taking it easy for the day: Try to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day after the procedure.
Eating a light diet: You may be advised to eat light, easily digestible foods for a few days after the test.
Drinking plenty of fluids: It’s vital to stay hydrated after a colonoscopy.
Monitoring for signs of complications: Although rare, complications such as bleeding or infection can occur after a colonoscopy. You should reach out to Dr. Maher immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, or heavy rectal bleeding.
Following up with your doctor: Your doctor will discuss the results of the test with you and give you recommendations for any follow-up care. It is important to follow their instructions to ensure that any potential issues are properly addressed.

Trust Dr. Maher for high-quality digestive health care. You’ll also be glad to know that we accept nearly all major insurance plans, but feel free to contact our office if you have any questions about our payment types. You can also check out our clinic’s blog to learn more about stomach health.

Reach out to Dr. Maher today if you need to schedule a colonoscopy near me Waller County, TX!

Fun Facts for Waller County, TX:

Waller County was established in 1873.
The county is home to Prairie View A&M University.
Waller County has a rich agricultural history.