The doctor recommends a colonoscopy for
1. Investigating Intestinal Signs and Symptoms - helps doctors to identify the possible causes of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea and other intestinal problems.
2. Screening for Colon Cancer - If a person is 45 years old or even older or at an average risk of developing colon cancer, having no other risk factors other than age, the doctor may recommend a colonoscopy every ten years. If a person has other risk factors, the doctor may recommend a screening sooner.
3. Looking for Polyps - If a person has had polyps before, the doctor may recommend a follow-up colonoscopy to look for and remove additional polyps. This is done to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
4. Treating an Issue - A colonoscopy may be done to remove an object or place a stent on the colon.