Alabama Gastroenterologists Share the Mistakes They Wouldn’t Make
A group of Alabama gastroenterologists are sharing the mistakes they wouldn’t make, from doing parasite cleanses and colonics to relying on Google for medical guidance and undergoing coffee enemas.
Age-Appropriate Colon Cancer Screening
The first piece of advice in the TikTok video came from Dr. Charles A. Dasher, Jr., who encouraged "age-appropriate colon cancer screening."
Screening Guidelines
In 2021, the US Preventive Services Task Force recommends lowering the age at which most adults start colon cancer screening from 50 to 45 amid a concerning rise in colorectal cancer rates among younger adults. However, if you have a parent or sibling who has had colorectal cancer, experts suggest getting your first colonoscopy at 40 or 10 years before the age the family member was diagnosed – whichever is earlier.
Other Mistakes to Avoid
Dr. Dasher’s colleagues at Birmingham Gastroenterology Associates warned against:
- Smoking, which can raise your risk for various cancers, especially colon and esophageal cancer
- Ignoring gastrointestinal symptoms like rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits, and unintended weight loss, which can be signs of colon cancer
Additional Tips
- Avoid unnecessary antibiotics and high-dose nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, which can bring the risk of ulcers
- Seek medical help for swallowing problems, as Dr. David T. Steele noted: "If things feel like they’re getting stuck in the esophagus, we can actually help that out."
- Don’t eat Taco Bell before a long car ride, as Dr. J. Stewart Herndon joked
Parasite Cleanses and Colonics
Dr. Carrie Rothermel warned against parasite cleanses, as they are often herbal remedies that don’t face the same rigorous regulations as prescription treatments. "Herbal medications, even with parasite cleanses, can often interact with medications [and] cause additional symptoms that you may be unaware of," she said. "Ultimately, if you’re having any symptoms that do make you concerned that you are having a parasite, you should see your local GI doctor and get checked."
Conclusion
The mistakes shared by these Alabama gastroenterologists are crucial to avoiding potential health risks and ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment. By following their advice, individuals can take control of their health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the recommended age for colon cancer screening?
A: Most adults should start colon cancer screening at age 45, but if you have a family history of colon cancer, you may need to start earlier.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when it comes to gastrointestinal health?
A: Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, high-dose NSAIDs, and ignoring gastrointestinal symptoms like rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits, and unintended weight loss.
Q: Are herbal remedies like parasite cleanses safe?
A: No, they are not. Herbal remedies can interact with medications and cause additional symptoms, so it’s best to consult with a medical professional if you’re concerned about a parasite infection.
