Colon cancer detection in Boca Raton

How do you get tested for colon cancer?

Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer in both men and women in the United States. This, combined with the fact that its symptoms only show late during the disease, mean that having colon cancer detection in Boca Raton is of utmost importance.

The following tests are not only used for colon cancer detection, but also to discover polyps or other abnormalities. They can be performed even when a person does not have symptoms associated with colon cancer.

• A fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
• A fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
• A stool DNA
• A colonoscopy
• A sigmoidoscopy
• A virtual or CT colonoscopy
• A double contrast barium enema (DCBE)

 

All these tests have different characteristics in terms of type of test, invasiveness, preparation, cost and insurance coverage. They are all available for colon cancer detection in Boca Raton, so you should talk to your doctor to decide which one is the best option for you.

FIT, FOBT and stool DNAs detect colon cancer by examining stool samples. They don’t require any special preparation, although your physician may recommend you to limit or remove some foods before the test.

Colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, CT colonoscopy and DCBE are optical tests, which means that a specialist gets to see images of the colon to look for polyps and abnormalities. DCBE and CT colonoscopy take images via X-rays, while colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy show live images of the colon with a camera, allowing the doctor to remove any abnormal growth.

Common signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:

• A change in bowel habits
• Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
• Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
• Stools that are narrower than usual
• General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, and/or cramps)
• Weight loss with no known reason
• Constant tiredness
• Vomiting

Most often, these symptoms are not due to colon cancer. Other health problems can cause the same colon cancer symptoms. Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor so that any problem can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Usually, colon cancer does not cause pain in its early stages. Therefore, you should be alert to the possible signs and symptoms of colon cancer. It is important not to wait to feel pain before seeing a doctor.

If you are concerned about colon cancer, contact the Institute of Health & Wellness. Our colorectal doctor, Deborah DeMarta, MD, will advise you on when to check for colon cancer, which tests to take and how often to have them.

Contact the Institute of Health & Wellness for more information on colon cancer detection in Boca Raton.

Phone: 772-539-9556
Address: 218 SW Atlanta Ave, Stuart, Florida 34994