So, I had a colonoscopy last month. I’m only 45, which isn’t anywhere near 50 (okay, maybe not that far), the age when these procedures are usually recommended. However, my mother was diagnosed with colon cancer six years ago, and as someone who tends to overthink my health, I’ve practically pleaded with my doctor for a colonoscopy every year since then. (Just to clarify, my mom is doing well now.) Here’s my experience with the procedure. So, settle in with a cup of coffee and read on.
For the past six years, my doctor has reassured me that my mom was old enough at the time of her diagnosis, so it wouldn’t be considered hereditary, and that I didn’t need early screening. But you’d be surprised how persistent a middle-aged woman with a flair for anxiety can be. This year, during my annual checkup, my doctor finally relented, saying something like, “Alright, you can have the colonoscopy if you promise to stop nagging.” Well, not in those exact words, but you get the drift.
So, I set it up. First, I had to take a COVID-19 test because, apparently, the virus can somehow transmit through the colon. Who knew?
My COVID-19 test happened to be on the first day they made patients swab their own nostrils. Let me tell you, I was not prepared for that. I awkwardly jabbed the swab into my nose while the nurse chuckled, pointing out that I hadn’t gone deep enough. After a few attempts and a sneezing fit, I finally got it right.
I didn’t have COVID, so it was time for the dreaded colonoscopy preparation. If you haven’t experienced this, it’s the worst part. First, there’s a 24-hour fasting requirement. When I heard that, I panicked, exclaiming, “Are you serious?! 24 hours?! I might die!” My doctor found my reaction a bit over the top.
Then, the night before, I had to drink a horrendous concoction of liquid that tasted like strawberry-flavored doom. I gagged with each sip, and let me tell you, the experience didn’t get any better after that. Once it was down, I spent the night in constant trips to the bathroom, experiencing what felt like an extreme case of food poisoning.
Surprisingly, I managed to get through the night without needing to rush to the bathroom. But guess what? I had to drink that horrible mixture again the next morning. The experience was just as unpleasant as the night before, and by this point, it felt like I was just expelling air.
My mom drove me to the clinic since I couldn’t drive myself afterward, but due to COVID restrictions, she couldn’t accompany me inside. It was odd wanting my mom with me at my age. I got changed into a gown and had an IV set up, and then it was almost time.
In the operating room, the anesthesiologist explained that I wouldn’t be under general anesthesia, but would receive propofol. I felt a bit silly asking her to keep an eye on my breathing, but it made me feel more at ease. She assured me it would work quickly.
And it did. One moment, she was telling me she was starting the medication, and the next, I was waking up in recovery. “Jennifer! Do you want some animal crackers?” Yes, please!
As I munched on the snacks, my doctor came in and started talking about what he found. I barely registered his words but caught snippets like “huge polyp,” “so glad you came in,” and “precancer.” Panic set in as I struggled to grasp the implications. Was I facing colon cancer? Did I really need another colonoscopy in three months?
They informed me my mom was there to pick me up, which felt surreal. How was I supposed to stand up when I was still processing everything? Eventually, I got dressed and left, tears streaming down my face as I thought about my health and my family.
The following morning, physically I felt better, just a bit bloated, but emotionally, I was more optimistic. Why did I think I was dying? The propofol had clearly affected me more than I realized. I left a voicemail for my doctor to clarify his earlier comments.
When he called back, he explained that colon polyps are common, but mine was significantly larger than normal. Most polyps are small and can easily be removed during a colonoscopy, but mine measured a staggering 25mm. That’s basically the size of a small rodent in my colon!
Though he didn’t think it was cancer yet, the pathology results showed it was precancerous. Three long weeks later, I learned that the polyp was dangerously close to turning cancerous. He said if I had delayed the procedure, “We’d be having a very different conversation right now.” That was a chilling statement.
The follow-up colonoscopy is to ensure everything was removed, as the polyp was indeed huge. He even tattooed the spot in my colon to keep track of it during the next procedure. I cheekily asked if he could draw something fun, like a heart or a skull, but he didn’t seem to appreciate the humor.
In the end, I feel incredibly fortunate and relieved. I’m not thrilled about the upcoming procedure, but I’m grateful I acted when I did. Apparently, I’m now considered high-risk due to that large polyp and will need to monitor my health more closely.
So, here’s my message: While COVID-19 is on everyone’s mind, don’t ignore your health concerns. If I had brushed off my instincts for even just a year longer, the consequences could have been dire. Take care of yourself, stay on top of your health appointments, and advocate for your well-being!
Update:
My follow-up colonoscopy revealed everything was clear. But yes, I did have a little accident the night before.
For more on health advocacy, check out this insightful blog post about taking charge of your health. Also, if you’re looking for authoritative resources, Make A Mom has some great insights. For more information on donor insemination, visit American Pregnancy.
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- Importance of colonoscopy
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- Understanding colon polyps
- Symptoms of colon cancer
- Health screenings for women over 40
In summary, my experience with the colonoscopy was filled with anxiety and unexpected findings, but it ultimately reinforced the importance of being proactive about health. I was fortunate to catch a significant health issue early, and I encourage others to prioritize their health screenings.
Keyphrase: Colonoscopy Importance
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