Episode 041 - Colonoscopy Booty Call

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On the 41st episode of Shit We Don’t Talk About, Mia flies solo once again to talk about her recent cancer scare, and all the important health issues that you don’t want to hear about, but you really do need to pay attention to!

Click to Read: Podcast Transcript

Click to Listen: Blog Audio Reading

Image Courtesy: FightColorectalCancer.Org

The Highlights

A family history of cancer and colon issues means Mia really should stay on top of this issue. Being four years late to get checked was not cool for her, and would not be cool for you either.
Colonoscopy prep is easier than it used to be. Don’t let the old horror stories deter you. This isn’t your slightly older uncle’s colonoscopy.
Rest up before you start your prep. Oh, and do your shopping before you start fasting. Being in the grocery store while starving means the box of BooBerry cereal looks real pretty on the shelf.
Myth: “I don’t need a colonoscopy if I don’t have cancer symptoms.” WRONG! A colonoscopy is a vital tool in EARLY detection. Don’t wait until there’s a problem.
Other methods – Alternatives to colonoscopy (but always ask your doctor first, don’t self-diagnose people!)
- Fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) involves analyzing stool samples (poop on a stick)
- Sigmoidoscopy
- CT colonography
- Double-contrast barium enema – (Mia’s review – this one isn’t fun either!)
- A single-specimen gFOBTFecal occult blood testing
- Stool DNA
Myth: “Prep takes FOREVER!”. WRONG! Mia wasn’t allowed to eat the day before her test. She did not have to fast for weeks on end. And the prep drink was only 32 ounces and not nearly as gross as everyone says it is.
Imagine how you will feel if you get bad news about a colonoscopy that you should have had years ago? Don’t wait. GO! Mia dodged a bullet on this one, but it could have turned out badly for no reason.