I debated for a week about whether to post a story on this issue but if it saves one life, prevents one bum from feeling embarrassment, it’s going to be worth it. Last week I underwent a colonoscopy. No, don’t leave, this won’t be gross! I had one five years ago too and what I want to share with you is that the process one must undergo ahead of time is A PIECE OF CAKE! It used to be horrible and had a well-deserved reputation for being so. One had to drink an unreasonable amount of awful-tasting liquid and the results were unpredictable. Not anymore! You pop a few pills and down three timed and alright-tasting drinks and Bob’s your uncle! Sure, I had to fast for a day and a half. Big whoop. I think I endured it quite well. It goes fast – heh heh, fast, get it?
So if you’re putting off this important screening because of old information about how terrible the preparation is, trust me, it’s no big deal now. There is absolutely no reason to avoid it. If you’re over 50 or an ex-smoker, git ‘er done. The doctors and technicians do the procedure all day long and believe me, you’re not that special! My way of coping with nervousness is to joke around. When the technician introduced himself I said, “Here I am, just another asshole!” He laughed and said, “Each and every one is special to me!”
Here’s how I look at it: Going through the test is a million times better than going through chemo. They can catch problems before they’re too serious and keep them from becoming so. Waiting until later is a bit of hell on earth. Prevention is the way to go.
A study came out this week that concluded too many people are being put under for colonoscopies and to that I say, p-shaw! I asked to be knocked out both times and when you ask, they might be a little shocked that you don’t want to watch your innards on TV, but they’ll do it. And I recommend it. There’s nothing like a little drug-induced nap during the day. And there’s also nothing like being given a clean bill of health and told there’s nothing wrong.
Great article Lisa & many thanks for writing it. Hopefully, it will save a number of lives. I went & had it done a few years ago myself, after being a chicken for many years, & found it was easier than going to the dentist. Thanks a bunch.
Hi Lisa….interesting article and very informative. I have had quite a few…my first was 2004 and I have them every 2 yrs. My next one is in September…yes, it definately is not like it was before…I now have mine done in a clinic and it is no problem…I do not get put out – I watch to see if there are any pollups again and watch..it is facinating..I don’t handle anesthetic well – so the less the better…I usually am sleepy once I get home…take a nap and I feel great after…please repeat this column every so often to remind people that it is no big deal…I dread going to the dentist more than have this done.