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Colonoscopy Specialist

Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC Our Services Colonoscopy
Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC - - Gastroenterologist

Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC

Gastroenterologist & Endoscopy located in the Upper West Side of New York City, NY

Colon cancer rates in the United States are 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women. At the practice of board-certified gastroenterologist Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC, on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, Dr. Seecoomar and his team offer stress-free colonoscopies to detect and address early signs of colon cancer. To schedule an appointment, call the New York City office or book online today.

Colonoscopy Q & A

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a stress-free colon cancer screening procedure that allows your gastroenterology team to view the inside of your colon to detect polyps and other signs of colon cancer. Using a thin, lighted tube with a camera attached, Dr. Seecoomar can detect polyps and remove them during the procedure. Routine colon cancer screenings can save your life.

Who should get a colonoscopy?

Everybody is different, which is why your gastroenterology team lets you know when to begin colon cancer screenings. Around age 50 is a good rule of thumb, but if you’re at risk of colon cancer, you may need a colonoscopy sooner. 

Factors that increase your risk of colon cancer include:

  • Family or personal history of colon cancer
  • Older age
  • Genetics
  • Inflammatory intestinal diseases
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Low-fiber diets
  • Being sedentary
  • Radiation therapy
  • Smoking or heavy alcohol use

CT scans (virtual colonoscopies), sigmoidoscopies, or stool tests are sometimes used in place of or in addition to regular colonoscopies. Your gastroenterology team lets you know which type of colon cancer screening is right for you.

How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?

Follow your provider’s instructions to properly prepare for a colonoscopy. Follow a special diet the day before your scheduled appointment, and take a bowel prep to clean out your colon before each procedure. Dr. Seecoomar might ask you to stop taking certain medications or to adjust medication dosages.

What should I expect during a colonoscopy?

First, you change into a comfortable gown to wear during your colonoscopy. Then, Dr. Seecoomar offers you sedation to make you feel relaxed during the procedure. While you lie down on an exam table, he inserts a colonoscope into your rectum to view the inside of it. You might feel a little bit of cramping or the urge for a bowel movement.

During this time, Dr. Seecoomar can remove polyps or take additional tissue biopsies during a colonoscopy, which might take about 30-60 minutes to complete.

What happens after the procedure?

It takes about an hour to recover from your sedative and up to a day for it to fully wear off, so someone must drive you home after a colonoscopy. Take the rest of the day off from work. Dr. Seecoomar might recommend that you follow a special diet temporarily.

Bloating and gas are normal side effects associated with colonoscopies, but walking can offer you relief. Also, a small amount of blood might appear in your first bowel movement.

When Dr. Seecoomar receives your colonoscopy results, he reviews them with you and lets you know if further diagnostic testing or treatment is needed. If the results are normal, he tells you when to schedule your next colon cancer screening.

If you’re due for a colonoscopy, book an appointment at the office of Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC, by phone or online today.

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