Colonoscopy Specialist
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Gwinnett Digestive Clinic, PC
Indran B. Indrakrishnan , MD
Gastroenterology located in Lawrenceville, GA
Thanks largely to the widespread use of colonoscopies, the mortality rate for colon cancer has been on a steady decline in recent years. At Gwinnett Digestive Clinic, PC, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, gastroenterologist Indran Indrakrishnan, MD, helps his patients gain the upper hand on colon cancer through regular colonoscopies. To avail yourself of this valuable screening tool, book an appointment online or over the phone.
Colonoscopy Q & A
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a screening tool that’s designed to locate polyps or other abnormalities in your large intestine or colon. While the presence of polyps isn’t all that uncommon, some polyps may become cancerous. This valuable screening tool allows Dr. Indrakrishnan to take action before this occurs by removing anything suspicious.
Dr. Indrakrishnan also uses colonoscopies to diagnose other conditions that may affect your digestive health.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
Since Dr. Indrakrishnan needs a clear view of the inside of your colon, you will have to fast for at least 24 hours before the procedure and take laxatives that will clear out your colon. Dr. Indrakrishnan will give you complete instructions before your colonoscopy so you’re prepared.
You should also arrange for someone to drive you home since Dr. Indrakrishnan will likely provide you with anesthesia or a sedative during your colonoscopy.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
During your colonoscopy, Dr. Indrakrishnan threads a specialized instrument with a camera and light on the end through your rectum and into your colon. The procedure itself painful, and Dr. Indrakrishnan will likely provide anesthesia or a mild sedative.
If Dr. Indrakrishnan finds any polyps that are suspicious or are larger than normal, he will remove them for further study. After your colonoscopy, you can return home.
How often do I need a colonoscopy?
Dr. Indrakrishnan recommends that his patients have their first colonoscopy screening around age 50. However, there are several reasons why you may need a colonoscopy at a younger age. For example, if you have a family history of colon cancer, you should have a colonoscopy by age 40. And if your family history of colon cancer is strong, you may need a screening even earlier.
Dr. Indrakrishnan also performs colonoscopies on patients with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and other gastrointestinal problems.
If Dr. Indrakrishnan finds nothing to be concerned about, you can generally wait 5-10 years until your next screening, If, however, he does find problematic polyps, he may recommend that you come in sooner for a follow-up colonoscopy.
To schedule your colonoscopy at Gwinnett Digestive Clinic, PC, call or use the online booking tool.
