So, my question is, how many of you folks have had one of these? For those that have, how would you feel about having one annually?
I had my first one of these last fall. While it was not truly unpleasant, I can't say I'd want to make it an annual event. I am 54 now and my father had colon cancer so it was deemed a good idea to check me out at this age. I did not exhibit any problems and my understanding is that my doctor does not believe I need another of these for at least 5 years. I declined the sedative and watched the whole (no pun intended) thing on the color monitor. Actually very interesting. Also, if one declines the sedative, then one can drive one's self to and from the test. The sedative may make it easier if one is truly nervous but the nurse said it sort of ruins the rest of one's day. I had an angiogram in October 2004 and on that occasion they recommended the sedative. I let them give it to me and unfortunately, I remember almost nothing of the procedure. Once again I was told that I could watch on the big monitor but I can't recall trying to. All I remember is the doctor telling me that everything was fine and I would not need bypass surgery. Randy B -----Original Message----- An asymptomatic person with no family history of colorectal disease should have a colonoscopy done once a year after 50 (rule of thumb) unless overridden by your doctor. If you have family history or medical conditions that encourage colon cancer, you should have colonoscopies done even earlier. There are some genetic conditions that force people to have colonoscopies in their teens, and total colon removal by their 20s. Be glad you don't have those. >
