PIXIAMOM
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posted on August 24, 2007 06:38:07 PM new
I finally bit the bullet and was the last of my siblings to succumb to this procedure. No symptoms, but slightly over age 50 with a family history. The colonoscopy was fairly painless, but the prep was miserable, especially with a severe head cold where coughing is not an option. Nonetheless, the more I read about colon cancer being the #2 cancer killer, yet one of the easiest to prevent (benign polyps that can turn into malignant tumors are easily removed during the colonoscopy.) I had 6 polyps removed. Some of my siblings had more. It's a pity that the procedure is so expensive. For those that spare no expense for the treatment of your pets- save some for yourself and ask your doctor about scheduling this procedure.
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davebraun
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posted on August 24, 2007 07:10:07 PM new
Been there done that.
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roadsmith
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posted on August 24, 2007 09:45:31 PM new
It is WELL worth the hassle, in my opinion. We just had ours done in June. It was so much simpler and less disgusting this time around--much less stuff to drink. One tip to any here who need to have one: We were told we could have up to three cans of Ensure the day before the procedure. I bought the chocolate mocha and honestly it was very good! I can see why it's pushed for seniors who aren't getting enough calories. I froze one can's worth and ate it the evening before as ice cream.
I always thought Ensure would be somewhat yucky but it's really more like a chocolate malt, and I may even lay in a supply to have in place of lunch on busy days. Learn something new every day.
_____________________
There is more to life than increasing its speed. --Mahatma Gandhi
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blueyes29
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posted on August 25, 2007 07:04:52 AM new
I agree, roadsmith! I keep Ensure in my fridge for quickie lunches. I also prefer the chocolate...it's really good!
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amber
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posted on August 25, 2007 07:09:43 AM new
One of our sons was having some problems a few months ago, and the doctor sent him for a colonoscopy. The doctor found a large polyp which he removed. He told him that his parents and siblings should all have a colonoscopy done because polyps do run in families, so we are all going to get one.
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blueyes29
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posted on August 25, 2007 10:07:56 AM new
When having this procedure done, it pays to shop around for doctors. The day before, my doc told me to drink a couple of the little bottles of citrate something. They are small and taste a lot like 7-up...not bad at all. Plus, I could eat broth and Ensure. The "day before" was not even close to the hassle I'd expected. Contrast that to a friend whose doc said to drink GALLONS of something or other the day before...she was miserable! I'm delighted with my doctor and have recommended him to my friends and family. It IS a procedure that everyone over 50 or so should have as it will save countless lives!
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glassgrl
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posted on August 25, 2007 10:43:46 AM new
put the bottles of citrate something (you said it first) in the fridge and get them good and cold. then chase it with a Mountain Dew.
Hmmm. I didn't get the Ensure option. Just any clear liquid.
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roadsmith
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posted on August 25, 2007 10:50:36 AM new
Years ago when I had my first colonoscopy, we had to drink what *seemed like* gallons of horrid liquid. They don't require that any longer, and any doctor still requiring that just isn't up to date.
I too chilled the citrate drink so it wouldn't be bad.
None of us are talking about the "end" (pun intended) part of the preparation. That is still not fun, but can be tolerated.
_____________________
There is more to life than increasing its speed. --Mahatma Gandhi
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GeneralFunds
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posted on August 25, 2007 01:09:25 PM new
Don't usually post a lot here but thought I'd share the importance of getting this done.
Without much warning 12 yrs ago this Oct. at age 50, I had a rectal tumor. Required surgery with a permanent colostomy, 6 1/2 wks of radiation and 1 yr of weekly chemo. Originally given 1 to 4 yrs but I'm still here - thank God!
My point is to let everyone know how very important this procedure is. It's a "pain" and now I only have to have it every 3 yrs but please, take it seriously.
Sharon
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PIXIAMOM
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posted on August 25, 2007 04:48:46 PM new
Thanks for sharing, Sharon. My mom had a permanent colostomy several years ago. She celebrated her 80th birthday this year. Every day is precious and we are so lucky to have her with us.
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leads
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posted on August 26, 2007 01:50:56 PM new
We have a 23 year old daughter who had problems with anemia. It cleared up. Her General Practitioner was an old ER doctor and said lets really make sure your ok. They did a colonoscopy. Was really looking for Crones or some other disease.They found polyps very large and pre cancerous.
This is usually heridatary so the rest of the family was done too. Three years later all is really well and it is a very preventable thing. So you can never be to careful and it is worth the preparation procedure.
We are glad it was found and the rest of the family is looking for problems in this area. Besides enjoying our daughter cancer free. We encourage all of you to get it done if is suggested. Who would have thought a 20 year old was this ill.
We got some strange looks when the 50 year old Mom was taking the 23 year old kid for this procedure but who cares!!! Prevent
colon cancer
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