Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I get screened for colon cancer?
If you are over age 50, have a family history of polyps or colon cancer or have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, you should be screened.
2. What is the best screening for colon cancer?
Colonoscopy is the “Gold Standard”. Stool testing for blood, sigmoidoscopy and barium enema are other options.
3. What about virtual colonoscopy?
Virtual colonoscopy (VC) is a good screening test. However, most insurance carriers do not cover VC. It is not readily available and can be uncomfortable. If a polyp is found, you still need a colonoscopy to remove the polyp.
4. Is a colonoscopy uncomfortable?
No. Colonoscopies are performed under sedation, take approximately 15 minutes and are painless.
5. Are all polyps precancerous?
No. Over half of colon polyps are hyperplastic, which are benign and carry no risk of colon cancer. Adenomatous polyps are precancerous. However, once removed, there is no longer a risk of cancer.
6. How often do I need a colonoscopy?
With no risk factors every 5 – 7 years after the age of 50. If you have had polyps, colon cancer or a family history every 2 – 3 years may be recommended. If you have ulcerative colitis, you should have a colonoscopy annually.
7. Is heartburn dangerous?
Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is annoying and painful for most. Only a small percentage of people develop complications such as ulcers, bleeding, Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer.
8. I have a hiatal hernia. Do I need surgery?
Hiatal hernias put people at risk for acid reflux. If the reflux is not responding to medicines or if the hernia is very large, you may need surgery. Most people can be managed with medication and diet.
9. Is it safe to be on reflux medication long term?
Yes, with supporting data from the last 25 years. There are no known long term side effects.
10. Which reflux medication is the best?
Usually, a patient’s symptoms can be controlled with any of the over the counter (otc) or prescription medications. Ask you doctor which is the best medication for you.
11. I have heartburn. Do I need an endoscopy?
If you have had long term reflux, problems swallowing or can’t get by without medication, you probably should have an upper endoscopy.
12. I have gallstones. Do I need surgery?
People with asymptomatic (without symptoms) gallstones usually do not need surgery. However, if you have had a significant gallbladder attack or multiple minor attacks, you may need surgery.
13. What are the risk factors for ulcers?
A bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) accounts for almost 50% of all ulcers. The other risk factors include anti inflammatory medication, alcohol and tobacco use.
14. Can H pylori be treated?
A course of two antibiotics and an acid blocking medicine taken for 10 - 14 days can eradicate 90% of H pylori.
15. How are ulcers diagnosed?
Ulcers are diagnosed with an upper endoscopy or an upper GI series.
16. Is hepatitis contagious?
Hepatitis B and C are transmitted via blood. Needle sticks, IV drug use, tattoos, blood transfusions given before 1985 and sexual promiscuity are risk factors. Hepatitis A is transmitted by food, usually tainted shellfish, or poor hygiene.
17. Do I need to be treated for hepatitis?
Most people who are infected with hepatitis B will have an acute illness and will then clear the virus. Most people with hepatitis C are asymptomatic and become chronic carriers. If you are a long term carrier of hepatitis B or C, you will need to be treated.
18. What is the treatment for hepatitis C?
Most patients will need between 6 – 12 months of a combination of an injectible medication, interferon and an oral medication, ribavirin. The cure rates are between 50 – 80%. The medications have side effects of fatigue, anemia, muscle aches and at times, depression. Most of these side effects can be managed with other medication and diet.
19. Can I drink alcohol if I have hepatitis?
It is recommended to avoid all alcohol and liver toxic medications if you have hepatitis.
20. Are colonics safe?
Colonics are not usually recommended. There is no evidence that they are helpful. A high fiber, low fat diet is best for the digestive system.
21. How much fiber do I need?
Twenty to thirty grams of fiber daily is recommended. Four to six portions of fruits and vegetable a day are optimal.
22. What are the symptoms of diverticulosis?
Diverticulosis pockets are usually asymptomatic. If one of these pockets becomes infected or inflamed, then diverticulitis ensues. Diverticulitis usually is treated with antibiotics and a bland diet.
23. What causes blood when I move my bowels?
Rectal bleeding can occur from hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, colitis, polyps or cancers. If you are bleeding regularly, you must be evaluated by a doctor.
24. When do I need to be evaluated for diarrhea?
If diarrhea persists for more that 3 – 5 days and is associated with bleeding or pain, you should see your doctor.
25. I took aspirin or Advil before my colonoscopy. What should I do?
You should be off blood thinners, including aspirin, for 5 – 7 days prior to your procedure. However, if you did take your medication and you are “prepped” for your colonoscopy, maintain your appointment and notify your physician at the time of the procedure.
26. I can’t take the entire colonoscopy preparation. What should I do?
If you are passing clear liquid, then you have done enough and may stop. If the stool is loose but dark, you can utilize an enema. If there have been no results, contact your physician.
27. Do I really need a driver for my procedure?
Yes. If you are receiving anesthesia, you may not drive home.
