So, I had a colonoscopy last month. At just 45, I’m not even close to the recommended age of 50 for these procedures, but my mom was diagnosed with colon cancer six years ago. Being a bit of a hypochondriac, I’ve practically begged my doctor for a colonoscopy every year since then. (Thankfully, my mom is doing well now.) Let me share my experience with you—grab a coffee and settle in.
For six years, my doctor assured me that my mom was diagnosed at an age that wouldn’t be considered hereditary, so there was no need for me to get screened early. But you’d be amazed at how persistent a middle-aged woman with a healthy dose of anxiety can be. Finally, during my physical this year, my doctor relented and said, “Alright, you can have a colonoscopy if you promise to stop bringing it up.” He didn’t say it quite like that, but you get the gist.
I scheduled the procedure, and first came the mandatory COVID-19 test. Apparently, they want to rule out any COVID risk before a colonoscopy. My test happened to coincide with the first day patients were required to swab their own nostrils. Let me tell you, self-swabbing is not easy. I poked it in and the nurse chuckled, saying, “That’s not far enough.” After a few attempts, I finally got it right—only to start sneezing uncontrollably.
Once I confirmed I didn’t have COVID, it was time for the dreaded colonoscopy prep. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s the absolute worst part. You have to stop eating for 24 hours before the procedure. When my doctor told me, I exclaimed, “Are you serious?! 24 hours? I might die!” He chuckled and said I was being a bit dramatic. The night before, I had to drink a vile mixture that tasted like strawberry-flavored death. I gagged with every sip, and despite the flavoring, it did nothing to mask the horrid taste.
After downing that concoction, I was in and out of the bathroom nonstop. I felt terrible but was also starving. I went to bed early, relieved that I didn’t have to wake up to use the bathroom. But guess what? I had to drink that awful stuff again the next morning. After another round of gagging, my bathroom visits continued, but this time it was just air—an interesting sensation, to say the least.
My mom drove me to the clinic since I couldn’t drive myself afterward, but she wasn’t allowed to accompany me due to COVID restrictions. It was a strange feeling wanting my mom there, even at my age. I changed into a gown, got an IV, and prepped for the procedure.
When I was wheeled into the operating room, the anesthesiologist explained that I’d be getting propofol, not general anesthesia. I asked her to monitor my breathing, which I now find amusing—me, the hypochondriac reminding the doctor of her responsibilities. She assured me it would work quickly. Indeed, one moment I was aware of her starting the medication, and the next, I was waking up in recovery.
“Jennifer! Do you want some animal crackers?” Now that caught my attention. I was still half-asleep, shoving crackers into my mouth as the doctor came in to share the results. “Huge polyp. HUGE,” he said, along with “I’m glad you came in” and “You’ll need another colonoscopy in three months.” My mind was racing—did I have cancer? What did it all mean? I was still trying to process everything while munching on those crackers.
They told me my mom was there to pick me up, but I was still grappling with the information I had just received. I cried all the way home and felt terrified. The next morning, I was still a bit bloated but felt more optimistic. Why had I thought I was dying?
After leaving a voicemail for the doctor to clarify everything, he called back with the details. Colon polyps are common and usually harmless, but mine was significantly larger than normal—25mm, to be exact. He indicated that if I had waited even a few more months for this colonoscopy, we would be having a very different conversation.
I have to return in three months for another procedure to ensure that the enormous polyp was entirely removed. I feel lucky and relieved that I didn’t ignore my instincts and push for that colonoscopy sooner.
So, here’s my message: amidst all the talk about COVID, don’t overlook your health. If I had waited another year, I could have been facing colon cancer. While my doctor was right about my family history, I’m grateful I advocated for myself.
Update
I had my follow-up colonoscopy three months later, and thankfully, everything was clear. However, I did have an embarrassing incident the night before.
For more insights, check out this related blog post on health and wellness. If you’re interested in pregnancy-related topics, this is an excellent resource to explore. For first aid kits and more information on health, this site is a great authority.
Summary
I pushed my doctor for a colonoscopy despite being under the recommended age due to my family history, and it turned out to be a crucial decision. I discovered I had a large polyp, which could have led to cancer if left unchecked. I encourage everyone to advocate for their health and not ignore their instincts when it comes to screenings.
SEO Metadata
Gratitude, Colonoscopy, Health Advocacy, Colon Cancer Awareness, Health Screening