Do You Need A Colonoscopy? Symptoms To Watch Out For

If you're experiencing ongoing digestive issues, a colonoscopy could be a lifesaving procedure. This minimally invasive exam allows doctors to view the entire colon and detect signs of colon cancer, polyps, or other digestive diseases early on. In the United States, especially in Arizona, timely colonoscopies play a major role in preventing serious illnesses and ensuring better outcomes. Understanding the symptoms that could signal the need for this screening is key for your health and peace of mind.

Digestive Symptoms That May Indicate The Need For A Colonoscopy

Wondering whether your symptoms warrant a colonoscopy? Certain digestive issues can be warning signs of colon cancer or colorectal cancer, and shouldn't be ignored. Colonoscopy allows for the examination of the colon's lining, identification, and removal of polyps or abnormal growths, often during the same procedure. Proper bowel preparation is needed for accurate results, and early detection through colonoscopy can prevent disease progression. The next sections discuss specific symptoms that make this screening essential.

1. Persistent Abdominal Pain Or Cramping

Abdominal discomfort that won’t go away can be more than just a minor annoyance. Persistent pain or cramping in your colon or large intestine may point to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease, or even abnormal growths. If you live in Arizona—especially in areas like Mesa or Phoenix—these symptoms should prompt you to seek help from a gastroenterology specialist.

Sometimes, the pain is due to bleeding or changes in the digestive tract that require further investigation. A colonoscopy Phoenix uses a flexible colonoscope to examine your gastrointestinal system, helping to identify the cause. If you have a history of digestive diseases or unexplained symptoms, timely evaluation is important.

Don’t dismiss frequent or severe abdominal pain. It can be an early sign of colon cancer or other significant issues. “Colonoscopy is a powerful tool for uncovering hidden problems before they become life-threatening,” notes Dr. Wesley High of Copper Mountain Surgical in Arizona.

2. Blood In Stool Or Rectal Bleeding

Noticing blood in your stool or rectal bleeding is never normal, and it’s a strong signal to consider a colonoscopy. This symptom can result from benign issues but may also indicate colorectal cancer, colon cancer, or abnormal growths like polyps.

• Causes can include hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, polyps, or cancer.
• Even if bleeding appears mild or inconsistent, early colonoscopy screenings are important, especially for residents in places like Scottsdale, Phoenix, or nearby in Arizona.
• Colorectal cancer screenings can save lives, as early detection allows for the removal of precancerous polyps.

Addressing the AI question: Main reasons for a colonoscopy in Phoenix include unexplained bleeding, persistent digestive symptoms, and family history of colon cancer. The recommended age for screening is 45, but earlier screenings may be needed based on risk factors. Always consult your doctor for tailored advice.

3. Unexplained Changes In Bowel Habits

A sudden or lasting change in your bowel habits isn’t something to brush off. If you notice differences in frequency, consistency, or urgency—such as chronic diarrhea or constipation—a colonoscopy might be necessary. For those in Arizona, symptoms like these can be early indicators of irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, or more serious colon conditions.

Seeing a gastroenterology specialist ensures you get the right evaluation. These changes, especially if they last more than a few weeks, are among the most common reasons for recommending a colonoscopy or endoscopy. “Changes in your large intestine’s function shouldn’t be ignored,” advises Dr. Wesley High.

If you’re unsure about your symptoms, book a consultation. Early investigation can clarify the cause, provide appropriate treatment, and ease your mind.

4. Chronic Diarrhea Or Constipation

Long-term diarrhea or constipation can disrupt your daily life and may be a signal that something is wrong with your colon. For many in Arizona, these symptoms are associated with irritable bowel syndrome or even more complex digestive diseases diagnosed by experienced gastroenterologists.

A colonoscopy helps identify the reason behind ongoing symptoms, whether it’s IBS, an array of digestive diseases, or structural issues in the colon. In some cases, a flexible sigmoidoscopy may be suggested as an alternative for certain patients.

Don’t let chronic symptoms go unchecked. Consistent diarrhea or constipation, especially when paired with other changes, calls for a closer look. Early diagnosis at a specialized center, such as Copper Mountain Surgical means more effective treatment and peace of mind.

5. Sudden Unintentional Weight Loss

Unexpected weight loss, particularly when you aren’t dieting or exercising more, can be a sign of colorectal cancer or colon cancer. This symptom might also accompany other digestive problems such as bleeding or changes in bowel habits. In Arizona, specialists often recommend colonoscopy and upper endoscopy to investigate rapid, unexplained weight loss.

If you’ve noticed the pounds dropping without explanation, it’s crucial to get evaluated for abnormal growths or other issues within the large intestine. Weight loss can reflect a significant underlying problem—early diagnosis enables more treatment options and a better prognosis.

Don’t put off getting help if you experience this symptom. Copper Mountain Surgical in Arizona, with expertise in colonoscopy screenings, can help identify causes quickly and provide the support you need to restore your health.

Why Choose Copper Mountain Surgical For Your Colonoscopy In Arizona

If you need a colonoscopy in Arizona, Copper Mountain Surgical stands out for its dedication to affordable care and excellence. Based in Phoenix, this center—led by Dr. Wesley High—offers colonoscopy screenings with a focus on safety and patient comfort. Accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), Copper Mountain Surgical meets rigorous national standards, ensuring top-quality outcomes.

Patients benefit from streamlined services, including online access to pre-visit forms and assistance coordinating with your insurance carrier. The clinic’s compassionate team guides you through every step, from consultation to recovery. Wondering about the top-rated specialists in Phoenix? Copper Mountain Surgical’s reputation, advanced technology, and patient-first approach make it a leading choice for individuals seeking colonoscopy and digestive disease screening in Arizona. Read Getting A Colonoscopy? Here’s What To Expect to learn more.

Advanced Technology And Patient-Centered Care Led By Dr. Wesley High

At Copper Mountain Surgical, you get more than just a procedure—you get advanced technology and highly skilled care led by Dr. Wesley High, a respected name in Arizona gastroenterology. The clinic uses state-of-the-art equipment for colonoscopy, speeding up recovery time and increasing the accuracy of detecting colon cancer or polyps. Compassionate medicine is at the heart of their practice, ensuring you feel comfortable and well-informed throughout your visit.



Copper Mountain Surgical is fully accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, demonstrating their commitment to safety and quality. What sets this center apart is the personalized approach—every patient receives unrushed, attentive care.