To safeguard your colon health, Hal N Buch, MD and Marisa Flanagan, FNP-BC, offer a variety of in-office services at their Kingston, New York office, including a colonoscopy. Thanks in large part to colon cancer screening and early detection tests like colonoscopies, the death rate from colon cancer has been on the decline in recent years. Call the office to schedule your appointment for a colonoscopy or use the online scheduler to book now.
Your risk for developing colon cancer increases as you age. Other factors that increase your risk include:
Talk to Dr. Buch about how you can make lifestyle changes that reduce your risk for colon cancer.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Buch if you have any of the following symptoms:
These symptoms don’t always mean cancer is present, as they’re often linked to other conditions as well. Either way, an exam with Dr. Buch is essential at finding the root cause of these problems and getting relief from these unpleasant symptoms.
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic test that Dr. Buch uses to monitor the health of your colon. The test detects irregularities along the lining of your colon and in your rectum. Some problems that a colonoscopy can detect are:
Colonoscopies are recommended every 10 years beginning at age 50. If you have other risk factors or a history of polyps, Dr. Buch may recommend having a colonoscopy more frequently.
To get the most from your test, it’s imperative that your colon be completely empty and free from stool. To accomplish that, Dr. Buch prescribes laxatives for you to take the day prior to the test. You’ll also be on a clear liquid diet for 24 hours before your colonoscopy.
Dr. Buch uses anesthesia to put you to sleep during the short procedure. He pumps a gas into your colon to open it up so he can see clearly. With a colonoscope, an ultra-thin, pliable tube that has a camera and light attachment, he examines your colon and rectum closely, taking photos along the way.
During the procedure, he may remove polyps, inflamed tissues, or take a biopsy.
For a comprehensive colon screening appointment, call Hal Buch, MD or use the online scheduler to book now.
