The Life-Saving Benefits of Colonoscopy Screening

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to talk about one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer, if diagnosed early. It may seem intimidating, but a colonoscopy is a very simple test and a big reason why there are more than one million colon cancer survivors in the United States.

A colonoscopy test is a visual examination of the large intestine (colon) using a lighted, flexible video colonoscope. The scope also has a camera to help the physician document findings and notable features.

A colonoscopy is more than just a test. If a polyp is found, it can usually be removed during the exam, thereby eliminating the need for a major operation and potentially preventing the development of cancer. If a bleeding site is identified, treatment can be administered to stop the bleeding. Other treatments can be given through the colonoscope when necessary and further studies or treatments may be recommended.

Colonoscopies also can be used in the diagnosis, treatment or prevention of other issues, such as:

  • Abdominal pain, discomfort or change in bowel habits
  • Chronic diarrhea or constipation
  • Colitis (Ulcerative or Crohn’s)
  • Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
  • Alternative tests to a colonoscopy include a barium enema or other types of X-ray exams that outline the colon and allow a diagnosis to be made. In addition, study of the stool and blood can provide indirect information about a colon condition. These exams, however, do not allow direct viewing of the colon or removal of polyps or biopsies to be done.

    If you’re at risk for colon cancer because of age, medical history or family history, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine which test is right for you.

Update: US 23 northbound open!

UPDATE!
US 23 in both directions at 8 Mile Road is now open, 8 Mile Road remains closed over the freeway.

Originally posted 3/10/2016
Please be aware that northbound US 23 at 8 Mile Rd. in Whitmore Lake remains closed following an earlier accident involving a semi-truck. In addition, the bridge over US 23 will remain closed for repairs as well.

We urge you to seek alternate routes and check Mlive for any updates. MDOT does not have an estimate of when the road will reopen.

Welcome Lisa A. Hammer, MD, IBCLC

Please join us in welcoming Lisa A. Hammer, MD, IBCLC, to IHA Breastfeeding Medicine Specialists. Dr. Hammer is a board-certified pediatrician and a lactation consultant. She has experience in pediatrics, lactation and postpartum support, and provides comprehensive breastfeeding consultations, addressing needs of both mothers and babies. She begins welcoming patients on Monday, March 21. Please contact your primary care physician or OB/GYN if you need a referral.

 

 

 

 

Scheduling sports physicals

Below is a listing of IHA’s pediatric and family medicine offices that are now scheduling annual check-ups. Beat the summer rush – don’t wait until the last minute to schedule your child’s check-up. Appointments are now available. Click the link below to make an appointment online, or call the office directly. If you schedule online, please select “physical” from the appointment type drop down menu.

Also, as a reminder, if your child is planning on participating in sports during the 2016 – 2017 school year, the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) requires that they receive a sports physical after April 15, 2016.

 

Pediatrics

  • IHA Chelsea Pediatrics: book online or call 734.475.9175
  • IHA Child Health – Ann Arbor: book online or call 734.971.9344
  • IHA Child Health – Plymouth: book online or call 734.455.4600
  • IHA Livingston Pediatrics: book online or call 810.494.6820
  • IHA Pediatric Healthcare – Arbor Park: book online or call 734.434.3000
  • IHA Pediatric Healthcare – Canton: book online or call 734.398.7899
  • IHA Primary Pediatrics – Domino’s Farms: book online or call 734.769.3896

 

Family Medicine

  • IHA Ann Arbor Family Medicine: book online or call 734.761.2581
  • IHA Brighton Family Care: book online or call 810.494.6840
  • IHA Canton Family Medicine: book online or call 734.398.7880
  • IHA Chelsea Family & Internal Medicine: book online or call 734.475.8677
  • IHA Clinton Family Medicine: book online or call 517.456.7449
  • IHA Family & Internal Medicine – Howell: book online or call 517.338.9090
  • IHA Family Medicine – Arbor Park: book online or call 734.971.1188
  • IHA Milan Family & Internal Medicine: book online or call 734.439.2429
  • IHA Pinckney Family Medicine: book online or call 734.878.1000