Category: News

Colon cancer has traditionally been thought of as a disease older people developed, and many seniors think they must undergo all types of medical tests and screenings because they are older. The truth is you might be wrong about that. Keep reading to find out the facts. When are you too old for a colonoscopy?

Colon Cancer Seen in Younger Individuals

The last several decades have shown that colon cancer is showing up in folks who are closer to middle age. In fact, the recommended age to begin having a colonoscopy has changed from age 50 to age 45 in an attempt to catch cancer early. If you have higher risks for colorectal cancer, like having a close relative with colon or rectum cancer, you should be screened even earlier than age 45.

The reasons for this are not completely understood, but it could have something to do with our diets and fast food convenience. Sedentary lifestyle and obesity are more prevalent, and many of these are considered risk factors.

Balancing the Benefits vs the Risks

A very recent study conducted among almost 10,000 seniors between the ages of 70 and 85 looked at whether those in this age group should continue to have “surveillance” colonoscopies. This was especially to look at those who had previous precancerous adenomas that were removed. The results showed that less than 1% of colonoscopies in older patients found any cancers.

Guidelines don’t clearly stipulate how long a patient should continue to have “surveillance” colonoscopies after a precancerous adenoma is removed.

It is believed more harm than good can come from having a colonoscopy at an advanced age.

Consider the following risks:

• Bleeding
• Perforation of the colon
• Sedation-related problems
• Infections
• Heart attack
• Abdominal pain
• Stroke

Bleeding and a perforation of the colon are the most common issues.

To Screen or Not to Screen?

Talk with our colorectal surgeons in our seven colorectal surgery centers in Rochester, NY about having a colonoscopy after age 75. For some people, a colonoscopy after age 75 is not recommended. Screening for patients between age 75 and 85 should be made on a case-by-case basis. This is dependent on comorbidities and heart health.

For some older adults who have a life expectancy of 10 years or more, and without significant comorbidities, they might benefit from screening.

Keep in mind that at-home stool tests are available and much less invasive.

Contact Rochester Colon & Rectal Surgeons, P.C. at (585) 222-6566 and have a detailed discussion if you are concerned about having any additional screening tests for colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is the second most prevalent form of cancer in the United States, however, it doesn’t have to remain this status through proactive measures. Regular screenings for individuals aged 45 or older have the potential to prevent at least one-third of deaths attributed to colon cancer. While most people don’t look forward to their regular colonoscopy, taking steps to understand when to prepare and how to make it more bearable can help alleviate your anxiety.

When to Begin Colonoscopy Prep

You will need to begin preparing for your colonoscopy three days before your procedure date. For example, if your colonoscopy is on Thursday, you would begin step one on Monday morning.

Three days before your colonoscopy: Begin a low-fiber diet three days prior to your colonoscopy, and stop the use of fiber supplements or anti-diarrheal medication. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS), including aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, should be stopped prior.

Two days before your colonoscopy: Maintain a diet of only low-fiber foods for the two days leading up to the procedure.

On the day before the procedure: Transition to a clear-liquid diet.

The evening before your colonoscopy: consume half of the prescribed laxative drink to thoroughly cleanse your colon in preparation for the procedure.

The morning of your colonoscopy: Complete the remaining portion the following morning.

How to Make Your Colonoscopy More Bearable

Talk With Your Doctor

First and foremost, talk with your doctor to learn what you can anticipate before, during, and after your procedure. Having a clear understanding of the process can enhance your sense of security and alleviate any concerns you may have regarding your colonoscopy. Ask about the available options for preparation solutions and seek guidance on their proper usage to guarantee that you are fully prepared ahead of your procedure.

Eat Lighter Meals Prior to Prep Day

In the days leading up to your preparation day, adjust your usual meal routine. Opt for a substantial breakfast, followed by a light lunch, and a small dinner in the days preceding your colonoscopy. This approach can contribute to a more comfortable experience on the prep day.

Your Prep Method

Your physician may offer a selection between a prescription solution or an over-the-counter product such as Miralax.

There’s the possibility of following a split dose regimen. In this scenario, you would take half of the preparation solution the night before and the remaining half 5 to 6 hours prior to the procedure.

To improve the taste, consider mixing the prep solution with a sugar-free and low-calorie drink like Crystal Light to make it taste better and easier to swallow.

Preparing for Your Liquid Diet

Prepare by having a supply of clear liquids such as broth, strained chicken soup, Gatorade, and jello in advance of your prep day.

Steer clear of all liquids with red food coloring.

Make a point to stay well-hydrated by consuming plenty of water. This is essential, especially as the prep solution takes effect.

Stay at Home for Prep Day

Do not plan to attend school or work on the day of your colonoscopy prep. The last thing you want is to find yourself rushing (and we do mean rushing) to the bathroom every half hour or even more frequently. It is strongly recommended to spend the day in the privacy and comfort of your own home.

Keep Your Mind Busy

Distract yourself from the discomfort by watching movies or reading a book. Involving yourself in activities you find enjoyable will help time pass more smoothly and alleviate any nervousness. Consider inviting a friend over or keeping your significant other nearby for support and distraction.

Baby Wipes Are a Good Idea

Your bum will thank you!

Take Comfort in Knowing the Worst Is Over

The actual colonoscopy procedure is pain free and a breeze compared to the prep.

In most cases, you can get back to your usual routine the following day. However, in certain circumstances your doctor may alter your activities/diet (such as if a large polyp has been removed).

Seek the necessary medical care for your well-being and reach out to Our colorectal surgeons at (585) 222-6566 to schedule your colon cancer screening in our seven colorectal surgery center in Rochester, NY.

At first, an anal fistula may result in pain or discomfort, but if not treated, it can progress to more severe complications, including infections, sepsis, or, in rare instances, cancer. That gives you the bottom line, however, let’s learn more about signs you may have an anal fistula and why early treatment is key.

What Is an Anal Fistula?

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the inside of the anus and your outside skin surrounding the anus. Many times they are the complication of an infection in an anal gland. This causes an abscess or infected wound which drains pus from the anus. This abscess can create a tunnel through your anus to the skin outside.

The fistula looks like a hole in your skin which connects to the abscess. It can drain blood, pus, or feces, and  may leak especially if you touch the area around it.

Common Signs of an Anal Fistula

You will feel the following symptoms with an anal fistula:

• Severe intense pain near the anal area that becomes worse when you sit down, have a bowel movement, or cough.
• Redness and swelling near and surrounding the anus. This signifies an active infection known as cellulitis.
• Drainage somewhere near your anus. It may be a smelly liquid of blood, pus, or feces.

What Are Risk Factors?

If you are a man, have had a perianal abscess in the past, and also have an inflammatory bowel disease IBD like Crohn’s, you have a higher risk to develop an anal fistula.

In addition, if you are immunocompromised and have frequent infections, have had radiation or surgery in that area, or have a chronic sexually transmitted infection, you are at a higher risk.

How Are Anal Fistulas Diagnosed?

our colorectal surgeons,will be able to diagnose an anal fistula by using an imaging test like an MRI, an endoscopic ultrasound, or a fistulography, which maps the tunnel using a contrast dye, and you may need an examination under anesthesia.

What Are Treatment Options?

The main treatment goals are to repair the fistula so it does not recur, and to protect the anal sphincter muscles to prevent incontinence. The surgical team will look at both conservative and surgical treatments.

Antibiotics won’t heal the fistula. Other surgical treatments are required.

These can include:

• Fistulotomy: A procedure that opens up the fistula so it can heal from the inside-out, and it is usually an outpatient procedure.
• Fistula Closure Methods: Plugging up the fistula with glue or a plug closes up the inner opening. Your surgeon then fills the tunnel with a material that your body will absorb.
• Reconstructive Surgery: Procedures that close the fistula while preserving anal sphincter function to prevent incontinence.
• Cutting Seton Procedure: Your surgeon places a suture or a rubber band (seton) and slowly tightens it. The fistula drains and heals with less chance of incontinence.

Determining the Difference Between Hemorrhoids and Anal Fistula

Many people may think the pain and discomfort they are feeling is simply hemorrhoids. It the pain and inflammation does not lessen in a few weeks or becomes worse, it is best to find an experienced physician like Rochester Colon & Rectal Surgeons, P.C. .

Don’t wait to seek care.

Anal Fistula Diagnosis and Treatment in Rochester, NY

If you are experiencing the symptoms of an anal fistula, don’t wait to contact Rochester Colon & Rectal Surgeons at (585) 222-6566  for an examination and diagnosis.

It is essential to get treatment as soon as possible before complications set in.

The nation’s cancer prevalence is showing concerning patterns, according to the most recent study from the American Cancer Society. More and more young people are receiving cancer diagnoses, including cervical, breast, and colon cancer. The rise in colorectal cancer diagnoses, which is currently the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women under 50 and the top cause of cancer deaths in men, is especially concerning.

Medical experts caution that although there has been a general decline in cancer-related deaths, the trend may be reversed due to an increase in the diagnosis of some dangerous cancer forms. Certain cancers are on the rise, including colorectal, uterine, renal, gastric, and pancreatic; they are impacted by lifestyle factors like obesity, tobacco use, and food.

Watch the short video discussing this topic in more detail

More colon cancer diagnoses at a younger age

You will need to purchase these items below-these are all over the counter and you can find listed options of alternatives on the back of this sheet.

Miralax bottle (238 grams or 8.3 ounces)
(4) Dulcolax or bisacodyl tablets (5 milligram tablets)
(2) 32 oz. bottles of re-hydration (sports) drink except no red drinks (See back of this sheet for list of brands to choose from)

DAY ONE = one day prior to colonoscopy appointment

DAY TWO = day of colonoscopy exam

1. Starting two hours before your colonoscopy exam, stop ALL fluids. Take nothing (No Food or Drink) by mouth.
2. For use of your medications, refer to orange medication instruction sheet enclosed.
3. Call (585-461-2498) if you have any questions regarding any of these instructions.
4. Arrive at your assigned time.

**We encourage clear liquid intake up to 2 hours before your procedure time**

CLEAR LIQUIDS (NO ALCOHOL):

• Water
• Clear juices (apple, white grape juice, orange drink, white cranberry juice)
• Black coffee or tea (no creamers) sugar OK
• Bouillon or clear broth
• Soda pop (Sprite, Ginger-ale, Mountain Dew), Gatorade (no red)
• Jell-o (no red), popsicles (no red), Lemon Ice

BOWEL PREP TABLETS: (any of these brands)

DO NOT USE STOOL SOFTENERS

• These are the PILLS to take at the start of your bowel prep
• Bisacodyl (Generic)
• Dulcolax
• Dulcogen
• Alophen
• Bisco-lax
• Carters Little Pills
• Colax
• Fleet Bisacodyl
• Modane

RE-HYDRATION (SPORT) DRINKS: Two 32 oz bottles *NO RED DRINKS*

This is the liquid used to mix with the powder (below)

• Powerade (contains less sugar than Gatorade)
• Powerade zero (even less sugar, best for diabetics)
• G2 (same amount of electrolytes as Gatorade, just less calories)
• W-sport drink (Wegmans brand)
• AllSport
• HydraLife powder
• Gatorade

BOWEL PREP POWDER

This is the powder to mix with the liquid (above)

• Glycolax
• PureLax
• ClearLax
• Miralax

Please Note:

• Please wear socks as it sometimes can get cool in the procedure room.
• No nail polish on fingers only (you do not need to remove acrylic nails). The nail polish may interfere with the oxygen sensor that is placed on your finger.
• Diabetics may use Powerade Zero as it contains less sugar than regular Powerade.

Anyone who is given a colon cancer diagnosis finds their world has turned upside down in one minute. Fear, anxiety, and a thousand other emotions hit all at once. After the initial shock settles in, now you need to think clearly and figure out the next steps after a colon cancer diagnosis.

Continue reading “Next Steps After a Colon Cancer Diagnosis” →

If you are approaching the age of 45, you may be wondering, why do I need to get a colonoscopy? For starters, it could save your life. If that doesn’t move you to set one up, we will give you several additional reasons.

Continue reading “Why Do I Need To Get A Colonoscopy?” →

The CDC indicates us that colon cancer is the third most common cancer that affects both men and women. Sadly, colorectal cancer is also rising among young people.

Now more than ever, it’s important to make sure that you are proactively taking the steps to be sure your colon is healthy early in life!

Continue reading “Care for Your Colon by Eating More of These Foods” →