Monday, November 19, 2012

Are you fearful of having a screening colonscopy? Don't be!

This won't be the most elegant post I've ever written for sure; however, it is an important one. If you or your parents are 50 years or older and have not had a screening colonoscopy, IT'S TIME.

Because of a family history of cancer,  Hank had his at 45 and thankfully so, because he had several pre-cancerous polyps at that time. He's had two more screenings since then with no problems noted so he's been released for five years.

Today, I had mine...I'd been dodging the whole idea for a year, but finally decided to put on my big girl britches and make the appointment....oddly, having to take off my big girl britches for the procedure. (I'm SORRY...that is a horrible joke but I could not resist...there is still residual anesthesia in my system.Yep, that's my story and I'm sticking to it!)

If you're in our area, I highly recommend Dr. Eddie Irions at Charleston Gastroenterology. Dr. Mullins, the anesthesiologist was also tip top. On our way to the "room" we talked about colleges and our kids and my job as a educator. Once inside, he put a couple of shots of something glorious into the IV and the next thing I know, I'm waking up from a blissful nap back the recovery area with Hank by my side. There was one polyp...might be pre-cancerous, might not. Let's pray for not. In any event, I'll go back in either three years or five years depending on the lab results.

I didn't want to go...but now that's it's over, I'm so glad I did. We got back home about 10:30 and I went straight to bed for a five hour nap. Not much sleep last night...but not because I was nervous. The most aggravating part of the process was drinking the prep/cleanse. Not fun, but tolerable. Only clear liquids yesterday with one dose at 5:00 p.m. and another at midnight. The midnight dose kept me up until about 3:30 a.m. and we had to be in the car on our way at 6:00 a.m...hence today's long nap.

Colon cancer is treatable when caught early. If' you're "about that age" do not delay.

1 comment:

  1. I had mine about 4 years ago. I think. Uh oh, might be due for another one this next year. Actually, it's not to bad. And...it can save your life.

    Hugs,
    Kat

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