The Forestry Forum

OK, that is a bad word and makes you think of bad things.  The prep is often joked about, I guess because it is better to laugh than to cry.  It certainly is better to laugh at someone else's misery.

I am talking about it because avoiding this misery and failure to have this procedure can have grave consequences.  Polyps can and do develop into colon cancer, which when not detected soon enough can often be fatal.

I have had polyps removed in the past but since no polyps were detected during my last procedure, I had been excused for 5 years.  Well, last week I had several and one was quite large.  They were removed and sent off for testing.  I was uneasy all week waiting for the test results.  Finally, yesterday I got the "all clear" call from the Doctor.  I can only skip one year before my next "misery".

Folks, follow your Doctor's orders and do not avoid having this lifesaving procedure.


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This gallon jug of punch carries a PUNCH.   :o

Had my first and only one about 5 years ago;  in the doctor's words, "You're clean as a whistle."  Ain't gotta go back for 5 more years.  Prep consisted of a LARGE handful of pills and a much-smaller-than-a gallon amount of liquid;  swmbo'd had to do the gallon thing and I think the pills are easier to handle. 

After my dr noticed in my records about 5 yrs ago, I had never had one, she said: YOU ARE GOING NEXT WEEK!!! Glad I did, had cancerous polyps. After 6" incision and 60% (13', I think) of colon removed, cancer gone. Further tests indicated no need for chemo or radiation. No bag required. I had colonscopy at 6 month intervals for 2 years, then 1 yr interval for 2 yrs, now I am on 2 year interval. Frequent procedures does not make the prep any easier. If your dr says you need one, GIT-ER-DONE, it might save your life.

At what age should you have your first one?

I've promised my wife at 40, not looking forward to it but in the last year and a half I watched to close friends die of colon cancer, one hadn't been to the Dr. since he was in service in Vietnam.  We spent a quite a few evenings with him up to his death, not the way I want to go.  Both guys were mid 60's.

Quote from: wwsjr on July 24, 2012, 02:52:59 PM
After my dr noticed in my records about 5 yrs ago, I had never had one, she said: YOU ARE GOING NEXT WEEK!!! Glad I did, had cancerous polyps. After 6" incision and 60% (13', I think) of colon removed, cancer gone. Further tests indicated no need for chemo or radiation. No bag required. I had colonscopy at 6 month intervals for 2 years, then 1 yr interval for 2 yrs, now I am on 2 year interval. Frequent procedures does not make the prep any easier. If your dr says you need one, GIT-ER-DONE, it might save your life.

This was me except I had a 14" incision and had to get the bag, treatments  and went through everything related to all that. Not good not good at all. Never gave any of this colonscopy crap a thought until in 98 my Doc said let's do a scope.  I remember waking up from the scope and everyone looking at me weird. Doc said Bill you need a operation PDQ as you have a grapefruit sized mass on one of the major blood supply's to your colon and it doesn't look good. 2 weeks later I woke up from a 5 hour procedure [the first of 2 operations]  half my colon gone and tubes running into or out of every port on my body, cut from groin to rib cage. Trust me Guys it was a ugly year you do not want to go down that road!
They say get scoped at 50 but if your family has a history like mine does get it done younger.

No history in my family like Bill. I think lots of my friends go for first at 50-55. Some I have talked to are on 5 year interval, with good reports. I had no symptoms, no pain, no problems that indicated that the cancer was there. I get a VA checkup with blood work every 6 months. No indication from these tests. The prep is a pain, but the other possibilites are much worse. When I woke from the scope the doctor said, the surgeon is on the way to talk to you, I knew is was not good.

Warbird. 40 is the start time around here. I have had 2 with the next coming up at 60.

Do it and have pc. of mind guys. You want feel a thing.

Remember there are NO symptoms or pain leading up to colon cancer until it's too late. It's a silent killer. Too many find out too late for help. I've watched a couple guys go through it and believe me it is a awful way to die.

 Think on the bright side, a good hospital will send you home with cd or dvd that  you can play at house parties to run the guests off.

I am having one done......tomorrow :). 

Then your insides are squeaky clean tonight.   :D

how long did it take you to type that message, Danny?  :-)

Magicman,You had it rough with a gallon jug. Must be all the grits you eat. Us Yankees just get about 16 ozs to clean the ..... out of us. I guess we are not so full of it.  :D  The Dr went both ends with me and met in the middle.  :D

Actually, I could only drink about 2/3 of that jug before I got nauseated and had to stop.  It did not matter because that is some powerful stuff for sure.   :o

You should ask them why they are not prescribing the new stuff.  The last one I had, last year, it's only about 16 0unces you have to drink. About 10 years before I had to drink the gallon, and it was a horrible experience, so I was dreading this last time. Nothing to it. You get pills starting the evening before the day before, then the day before you dont eat other than clear liquids, then drink the 16 ounces. Minimal time in the bathroom as well.

The procedure is miserable to say the least but colon cancer is a whole lot worse. My brother in law had surgery and is now undergoing chemo, fortunately it was caught early and the doctor expects a full recovery.
He is a stubborn cuss, refused to go to a doctor until the mill forced him due to insurance coverage. He is 59, won`t be going back to work.

I've had 7 of them so far and coming due for another one. One of my brother-in-laws died at age 40 from colon cancer.

Start at age 50, if there's no family history.  Every 8-10 years after that if clear from polyps, more often if not.  I agree with Jeff on the prep.  Drinking that gallon of stuff is old school, IMO.

There are the pills of course, but I had to mix 238 grams of a powdery stuff in 64 ounces of propel, so that was 1/2 gallon.  Not as bad as before, but still a challenge.

MM,

Yes, I have been in the throes of preparation :).  Scheduled in at 07:30 this morning.

Dan,

Either real fast, or slowly with several time intervals between words  :D :D.

Previous times I did the ½ gallon.  That Doctor moved away and this was a younger surgeon that has recently moved here and joined the group.  I forgot to tell him that I have a small stomach and can not drink a gallon of anything.

I hope that this thread will spark some concern and motivate anyone that has been avoiding this procedure to realize that it could be literally life saving.

I do have one more suggestion.....start your prep around 4pm the day prior to surgery.  No later.  I usually start at 3PM.  It's better to deal with this in the early evening and then get some sleep instead of losing sleep making bathroom "runs".  (sorry, I couldn't resist).

I started really drinking a lot of fluids that morning and began the prep at 2:00 PM.  I think that it is a lot better that way and at least I got plenty of sleep.

We just had a burial committal about a month ago for dad's cousin who passed away just before Christmas with cancer in his bowels, aged 73. Mother has had it done, dad refuses.

I agree with others about it not being a pleasant process, but it is very important to have done.  Maybe someone here reading this will be spurred to action and prevent a catastrophic consequence in the future. 

WDH's statement above and the posts that have testimonials are the reasons that prompted me to start this thread.  I was uneasy last week waiting on the test results from my procedure.  Just knowing that polyps were removed and pathology test were necessary is reason enough to schedule the necessary future procedures.

Colon cancer is an easily detected and prevented disease.

  I've had the procedure done twice. The first time they removed three polyps a year later had it done again and came up clean. That time I was granted five years before the next colon blow. There is no fun in having it done. The best thing to do is just wright it down on the colander as your very own personal day.  Get some reading or thinking time in for yourself. Cause it's going to be a long day.
  After reading this thread it got me thinking it should be close for me to have it done again.
  Not sure of the age bracket to start having it done but if your insurance will cover it just do it.

I've had the procedure done three or four times and I am due in two more years.

Nothing very pleasant about it, but the prep is worse than the actual procedure.

Lots of peace-of-mind once you're done.

If you're over 40, you should be scheduled to have the procedure done.  ;)

My Doctor's office called me this morning and gave me a "bit of a start".  It seems that everything is still OK, but I will not be able to skip a year.  My next procedure is scheduled for next year.  :-\

He called and thanked me for the forum and said you were so good for business, he might switch it to every 6 months.  ;)

Magic Man,

Great thread but please no pictures of you getting scoped ;D

Oh you remember....... :D

A classic tale...

http://www.miamiherald.com/2009/02/11/427603/dave-barry-a-journey-into-my-colon.html

You gotta take this stuff that gives you Montazumas revenge for a few hours but that passes .The proceedure is nothing .You just have to wait in the clinic until you pass a few elephant farts then you're good to go .

I don't have to go back for ten years .On other things I get the once over physical stuff like sugar and PSA blood work once a year .I really isn't a big deal and as they say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure .If you've got something nip it in the bud .

My ex fooled around with some stuff ,cancer stubborn know it all type .They buried her two years ago .--word to the wise ---

Today was my turn for the misery. On my last one, the cleanout stuff didn't work too well and that caused some problems. Doc came up a new plan for today. I went through 2 cleanout proceedures, one yesterday and another starting at 1 am today. Talk about miserable. Guess it was worth it, I got a clean report and ole doc says, "at your age, you probably won't need another one in 5 years.

Good for you Piney, and your "clean" report.   smiley_thumbsup

My Mom scheduled and had one at age 88.   :o   The Doctor guaranteed it for 10 years.   :)

FWIW a word to wise on this stuff regarding age .My daughter in law bless her heart is in her early 30's and just within the last 2 years underwent colon cancer surgery ,chemo therapy and radiation .So far so good at this time ,thank heavens .

Her family has a history of colon cancer and she thought perhaps 40 would be a good age to start a regiment of prevention and detection but it came upon her early in life so you never know about these things .Something to think about especially if it could be a heridity thing .

Last year when I turned 50 my doc schedule for me to have one.  The prep didn't bother me (I was scared as hell with the horror stories my co-workers told me) the procedure didn't both me ( I was asleep) but the gas after the procedure!, Oh my goodness!  If I could have figured a way to bottle it, I could have heated my house for the winter and left my wood pile alone!  I had a couple of times when, I swear I went air born.  All in all, it wasn't nearly as bad an experience for me as I thought.  The doc told me they found a small poylp but not cancer.  Because of the "find" I have been scheduled to have another procedure in 5 years.   

Thanks Roger I needed a good laugh!

I was thinking about trying to talk my way out of getting this done, but, after reading this thread, it needs to be done.
Scheduled for the 10th...

After reading this thread, I asked about the limited dose of liquid cleanser.  The doc said they have gone away from that method and I would be looking at the gallon jug :-\

My buddy just had one done and I asked him how it went....he said "From that particular procedure, that doc knew how many fillings I have in my teeth!"

I will ask him to confirm for my wife... that my head is not up there...

Now surely there has to be some sort of Doctor/patient confidentiality that won't allow them to tell my wife when they do indeed find my head up there....right?  ;D

LOL

At least after the cleanout, you should have a fresh smile.   ;D

My Proctologist's name is Pok-E-Mon........

Quote from: Misfit on August 28, 2012, 08:30:56 AM
My Proctologist's name is Pok-E-Mon........

Like the Star Trek theme:

"Boldly going where no man has gone before"

I had a DOT physical on 9/10. Doc insisted that I have another colonoscopy, since it had been eleven years.

I had the choice of the gallon (Nulytely Generic PWD) or the other kind. Gallon cost is $25 vs. $70 for the other kind. (The gallon was $5 with my insurance).

I am writing about my experience because it is not like what has been described here.

I prepared by buying a package of Crystal Light Pure Lemonade. I put three packets of the Crystal Light in the gallon and put the gallon in the freezer at 2 PM. At 3 PM I started drinking. I started out trying for a cupful every ten minutes, but decided I had plenty of time to just drink a cup every twenty minutes. The taste was just like drinking a cold drink of lemonade—not unpleasant at all. It took about four cups before I had to make an urgent run. Several hours later it was one cup in and one cup out. I finished it at 11 PM and went to bed at midnight. Had to get up once in the night. ( I slept on a thick towel just in case.)

My appointment was at 10:15. After filing out paperwork it was 10:45 before I was called into the prep room. Half an hour later I was in the "operating room".

Here is the abnormal part. I had an IV at my right elbow. They applied the sedative to put me out but nothing happened—except the pain at the IV got really bad—a 9. They realized I was having an infiltration—It wasn't getting into my bloodstream. So they tried my left elbow. More trouble. Sedative was moving back and forth. They had put the IV in an artery instead of a vein. Things then got serious and I was moved out of the OR. The head nurse did get a vein in my forearm and I went back in and the sedative put me out and next thing I know is I am waking up.

Aside from this abnormality there was nothing unpleasant about the whole process.

Doc said he found two significant polyps which are being biopsied. Wants me to schedule again in one year.

I have gotten many PM's concerning this thread.  Most of them were from members who did not have a procedure scheduled and after reading some of these experiences, decided that maybe it was time.  Several of these resulted in finding polyps that needed attention.  Sharing experiences could be lifesaving.

In the bigger scheme of life, getting a colonoscopy is really not a big deal.  Don't put it off and be sorry.  Get one.  It's worth it.

I've had several.  Next one (fifth?) is coming soon.

Norm

Agree with the sentiments of this thread.  Just do it.

I also, again, suggest that the pre-op prep be started IN THE AFTERNOON before your procedure.  Not all patients react as quickly and completely as others, and you can have a miserable night before your procedure if you start too late.

My other suggestion, since this is a completely elective procedure, is to ask for the first or second procedure of the day, and don't accept a later start time.  Don't wait until the afternoon because that was the first time slot available.  It's OK to delay this procedure for a few weeks or even a month or two to make it as easy on yourself as possible.

This is a common, curable cancer.  We are all gonna die but it's better to die of something else. ;)

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Started my prep Thursday afternoon. ;D

Things went well but the stuff tasted awful.  I'll try the Crystal Lite if there is a next time.  Slept through the actual procedure on Friday morn.  They only found one small polyp.

I asked about the pills that were mentioned a while back.  They said they are rough on the kidneys so they won't use them.  I give my kidneys a hard enough time as it is, so I didn't argue the point. :D

oh DanG,that is funny. I had 1 done so far,first one they meet in the middle,went down one end and up the other end.  :D  Than they had to check out my stomach again. My other end was fine.  ;D  I was suppose to have a 11 am scope. Did not happen until 3. I was some hungry when I got out of there. No big deal to have it done. The juice is really the worst part of it, or what I mean is the results of drinking the juice is. You don't want company that day.

Thanks for starting this thread MM.

I had the gallon jug. 1/2 in the afternoon the second 1/2 early in the morning. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. They sent off 3 samples for biopsy tests. It turned out ok.  I have to do it again in three years.

One of my coworkers got things mixed up...she sent me an e-mail giving me well wishes. In her email she wrote "I hope your autospy goes well".  She was really embarrassed when I replied "I'm not dead yet"

Here is my story for the %100 curable cancer, as long as they get the polyp in time.
I made a mistake on the phone call and took my wifes' appointment. Well they found a funny place polyp/tumour. I had to go back in  in 2 weeks when the real good Dr. was back, he owns the clinic. he took me to hospital and removed it. On my follow up visit, he said I owed him for saving my life. The polyp was 9 years old, in a bad place. I was told at 10 years they turn cancerous, and then it is a horror story, very few people survive.
I go back very 2 years, and my children were told to go at age 40 as there is now a history.
I am so glad I got my wifes appointment. 8)

I bet your family is too.Talk about faith.

Had my first one at age 45. Due for another is 2 years. Was passing blood, and it scared the heck out of me. Got the procedure, and found out all was fine. My point is, don't wait for a problem. Whether there is a history or not, with such a simple procedure, for a cancer that is so deadly, I'll take the "prep" over the cancer anytime.

Slab slicer,

That's what happened to me.  I discovered dark red stools.  I was 40.  Got scoped and found nothing out of the ordinary and sent home with a clean bill of health.  I'm not 50.  I haven't had another, I guess it's time...

took the pills last night started drinking the gallon of juice this afternoon.  They are going with the gallon because many people dont drink enough water.

I hope that everything works out for you, Trapper.  Is this the first one?  It's a good thing to do at your age, and not all that bad.  I suspect that this isn't the first one for you.

Nice to visit with you at the pig roast.

Norm

Well worth the peace of mind. Had a firemen that put it off tip he was 56. Found several issues and some cancerserous growths. Had to have a portion of his colon removed. He laughs now about having a semi-colon, however at the time this was going on it was not funny for him, family nor friends.
Don't think about doing it one day sometime in the future and keep delaying, have it done no big deal. The cleansing process to me was way worse than the procedure.

I just got my notice.  My "pre-procedure" appointment with the Dr. is the 21st.

Quote from: Magicman on August 12, 2013, 11:00:45 PM
I just got my notice.  My "pre-procedure" appointment with the Dr. is the 21st.

Don't forget to take pictures :D

Hope all goes well for all of you going through this, mine a few years back, no issues, the doc did say the go-litely (1gal) was use to keep the colon in the natural state, just a bear to get it all down,   david

You should have plenty of time to recover and make it to the Sycamore Project #2 gathering on the 31st, eh?   ;D

Since age 50, my HMO does a stool sample looking for trace amounts of blood (I suspect).  I guess I should push ;) for a colo?  No history in my family, just heart disease :( so I watch what I eat along with my cholesterol.

Colon Cancer killed my Dad at 64 years, a couple of years after he retired from a productive US Forest Service career.  An Air Force veteran and married father of three, he was an organic gardener, fit, never smoked, rarely drank.  His parents lived into their nineties.  He felt ill, went to the doctor then to surgery (colon cancer was into his intestine and liver).  Diagnosis to death was three months. 

That was twenty years ago.   I miss him.

Don't like the idea of a colonoscopy?  Do it for your kids.

Sorry to hear the sad news, but thanks for the reminder to all!

Get yourself scheduled, I'll be due for a repeat next year!

I had my "pre" visit yesterday.  I "clean out" Wednesday and will have my procedure Thursday AM.  Oh Joy.   :-\

Hope everything works out OK, Lynn.

Norm

Quote from: Raider Bill on August 13, 2013, 08:51:24 AM

Quote from: Magicman on August 12, 2013, 11:00:45 PM
I just got my notice.  My "pre-procedure" appointment with the Dr. is the 21st.

Don't forget to take pictures :D

Yes, remember the old Forestry Forum saying "no pics, it didn't happen"!

Of course I can think of LOTS of pics I'd rather look at!  :o

 smiley_dizzy   Oh that stuff is soooooo goooood.   steve_smiley

I get started on my prep about 1pm Thursday for Friday morning "procedure". My third time,hope this one's the last for a few years. Had my first at 60 after finding out my maternal grandfather died of colon cancer,in (I think) his early 60's.
Mike

doc says come back in three years. He removed 4 small pollops.

I started my drinking binge at 12:30 today and go in at 8:15 tomorrow.  I had two polyps last year and hopefully will be clear this year. 

I will say it before Poston does, The doctor hopes you are clear too.

Well I am "clear" now.   ;D

The "procedure" went very well.  One very small polyp which was removed and if the pathology test is clear, I will not have to go back for several years.   smiley_thumbsup

That is good. Now time to get "filled"  up.

OK Ray, I'm going to tell it.  It was about 11:30 when we finally were able to leave the hospital, so Pat asked me what I wanted for lunch.  I thought and told her to drive us to the Cracker Barrel and I would decide there.

It was two eggs over easy, grits, wheat toast, bacon, and fried apples.  Water to drink because they wanted two bucks for a cup, so I made coffee when we got home.   digin1

Two small polyps for me this time,Doc says see you in 3 years. I don't mind the procedure,as I'm asleep,but wish there was an easier way to prep!
Mike

Good deal.  Glad to know you have a clean BOH!

Sounds good Mike.  smiley_thumbsup  Unpleasant yes, but easily a life saving procedure.

Good news Lynn!  my last visit ended up with a shopping spree of shoes!  whatever they gave me made me want to buy shoes!   go figure ;D  david

When we use to go out we would usually have just water,I'm not paying just about $2 for coffee or soda.

It really is not a big deal ,however the prep will keep you scooting so to speak .After the thing is over which you don't remember because you're lnocked out cold you just  pass a little gas and they turn you loose if nothing is wrong .Now it's not as much fun as a pickled egg , saurkraurt beer type you can clear a whole room with though .

--but if something is amiss maybe just maybe they can do something about before it's too late --It's a prevenative  ,use it .If you're clean it's ten years before it's done again .

17 years ago my dad went in and a tumor was found.  A friend's daughter had married a surgeon, they wanted to see dad, they scheduled on that Friday night for a Dr. visit the next Tues..  He went straight from the office to the hospital, that Thursday morning he went in the operating room, they regowned 3 times, he was in for 10 hours.  Has had a colostomy bag ever since, he had radiation, chemo, and a thing that looked like a vcr tape that 5 seconds of every minute put chemo in his blood stream via a stint.  He never lost a hair on his head but his beard fell out and never came back.  He and mom moved into their new home on our farm this summer so we can help keep them in their own home for as long as possible.  I have had at least three of those things, the first one, was awake!  Swore I smelled the *DanG smoke from them burning polyps off.  From then on told them to knock me out and wake me up when it was over.  My dad was cut from the top of his belt line down and around to the bottom of his rib cage.  He said the day they pulled staples he quit counting at 19 around his belly button!  If insurance won't cover it regularly, get some rough toilet paper (a corncob would work) and get a little blood on your toilet paper and they have to cover the process.  Do it, your children and grand children will thank you for it and you will be around to hear them.

My Bro-in-law had his colonoscopy a while back and they found a tumor.  He was in surgery within a few days and they removed 18" of his colon.  The tumor was malignant but had not metastasized, so no further treatment was needed.  He was back in the woods cruising timber within weeks, at 80 years young!  He had been checked every five years previously, and that's why they were able to catch it early enough.

Had mine 3 year's ago 1 pill 16 once glass that went good was sleeping till got to the end woke up fast told them get the -----out running-doggy

Just when you think you've heard it all....

http://www.youtube.com/embed/_43f9RzAqMM

Oh, My! :D :D

Cracked me up! :D :D :D :D :D

Best stuff in the World for your colon is a product called Colosan, a magnesium oxygen product found at thefamilyhealthnews.com- John Taggart! Been using it for nearly 20 years and according to my good allopathic Dr. " am clean as a whistle!" :laugh:

I have a very good friend that has been hesitant about having a colonoscopy.  He had colon surgery yesterday.   :-\

I'm in the Que early 2014
Conscience sedation!!  should be interesting.  well If I can remember :D

DGD

Jan 6. First time. I can't wait ::)

That is one time where the preparation is more exciting than the actual trip.  We all giggle about it, but your future is worth it.   :)

Quote from: Magicman on December 19, 2013, 07:58:20 AM
That is one time where the preparation is more exciting than the actual trip.  We all giggle about it, but your future is worth it.   :)

As he prepares......actually he will make several trips. Giggle, giggle. ;D

Quote from: POSTONLT40HD on December 19, 2013, 08:36:47 AM
As he prepares......actually he will make several trips. Giggle, giggle. ;D

Or just 1 trip that lasts several hours.  ;D Take a good book.

I've heard this more than once!

He could                 through a keyhole at 10 paces!  :o

The prep says it all!  ::)

I have heard it sounds like a Covey of Quail flying up.  :D

has my first colonoscpy last week. doc said see ya in 10 yrs. the worst part was drinking that god awful luquid.

Had my first one a few years ago.  My wife still kids me about how lovey / sappy I was waking up.  Never will live that down.  DanG anesthetics ... makes you say things you really mean.

That god awful liquid seem like was only 16oz?? I forgot. What was god awful was the next hour or 2.

My wife told me that she thinks the most fun I had was getting rid of the gas! :D 

I had one  five  years ago wasn't bad its just something you have to do.I have one coming in jan  again,  my father had problems so they want me to have one every five years .

Just had my second one done a month ago. They found nothing just like when i had my first one at 50. This time was much easier as I only drank 16 oz and the doc said I was well prepped. This time I was completely knocked out where before I was half awake and watched the screen. This new prep and full sedation really makes this procedure tollerable. Think next time is 5 yrs. Get er done!

my wife and i had our procedures scheduled 1 hour apart.we have 2 bathrooms so , not a big deal.you would think they could have a pill instead of drinking a gallon of the most disgusting tasting crap ;)

Some people might be hard to clean out, if you know what I mean  :D.

danny,
are you saying i might be full of something? :D

Brown eyes your full blue eyes you are a quart low smiley_wavy

Who, me?  Said What?   I did not say anything! ;D.

It is over. Wasn't so bad. My bride said she helped me get dressed - I don't remember ::)
Dr. says I am fine.

 smiley_thumbsup smiley_thumbsup

That is good news. Is is a good thing to be healthy.

THIS TOPIC HAS BEEN MOVED TO THE OUTHOUSE.  :D

Quote from: POSTONLT40HD on January 14, 2014, 10:09:56 PM
THIS TOPIC HAS BEEN MOVED TO THE OUTHOUSE.  :D

You're too much, Poston  :D :D :D

There is a time during the "procedure" that the outhouse would be too far away.   wait_smiley

I am scheduled for next Tue 1/21, 7AM. I have to start with the "procedure" at 1PM on Monday. Since I had colon cancer 7 yrs ago, I am on 2 year schedule. If you have not had one, follow your doctor's advice, probably saved my life.

Quote from: Magicman on January 15, 2014, 07:55:47 AM
There is a time during the "procedure" that the outhouse would be too far away.   wait_smiley

I think there was a book written about that.  "Long Trip to the Outhouse" by Willie Makeit

It would'nt do to stumble on a root  :).

Quote from: blackfoot griz on January 18, 2014, 02:31:42 PM

Quote from: Magicman on January 15, 2014, 07:55:47 AM
There is a time during the "procedure" that the outhouse would be too far away.   wait_smiley

I think there was a book written about that.  "Long Trip to the Outhouse" by Willie Makeit

Edited by Betty Don't!  :D

I'm getting ready to start enjoying the prep in a few minutes. Double scope in the AM.

Double scope?  Which one are they doing first?

Hopefully the top. I'd hate to wake up with a bad taste in my mouth :snowball:

 :D :D :D

I guess that as long as the light does not shine completely through you are OK.

Seriously, I wish you the best with the procedure.  No fun but a proven life saver.

Yep,meet in the middle. I had one of them.

Hang in there, not much fun, but a good idea, 

All done Raider Bill??

Hope all went well!

The prep has to be worse than the procedure!

Yep all done. Snoozed most of the day when I got back. They knock me out. Doc's a little guy no sense of adventure. ;D
Waiting on the test results from samples.
Barret's Esophagus  and hiatal hernia on top , Diverticulitis on bottom. Also removed 3 polyps 1 golf ball sized. No surprises.
Having had colon cancer already and losing 13 inches I tend to keep on top of these.

Glad to see the good results. In this case we will forgo the pictures.  :D :D :D

For 95 years old, you are doing pretty good. 

Quote from: WDH on June 09, 2014, 09:11:53 PM
For 95 years old, you are doing pretty good.

He don't look much over 75. Gots to be all then decades of good clean livin'! 8)

Glad you are keeping an eye on your health, Bill. Lots of colon cancer in my family. I go in every two years. Lotsa pullups, none have been cancerous.

Thanks for the update Bill.  No surprises are good news.   8)

Continued good health, Bill

I am one who avoids the doc when I can ::)

When I went in to the VA this week to get poked and prodded they put me on the list to be scheduled for both upper and lower scope, do to family history. Grandfather had a section of colon removed and a bag in his 60's and passed soon after and my dad passed from asificuss cancer at 66 they gave him 6 weeks and were accurate to the day.
Good to see all the positive input on this subject.

While they were at it they got real concerned about my ankle and took several x-rays. Seems i have the ankle of a 90yrold with arthritis. Will meet with a specialist on this later.

Looks like i need to make more time for the docs over the coming year ::)

Our health is a serious matter.  I am glad that you are attending to yours Harvey.   :)

A friend of mine made an interesting observation the other day -- our bodies were really made to last 20 years, maybe 30 tops.  Then, just like machinery, no matter how much good maintenance we have done, parts start to wear out, and need to be replaced (if that's an option).  At some point, you have to pay even more attention to maintenance, or more serious damage occurs because of a failure.

Colonoscopy ain't fun, but it's one of those critical maintenance items!

Did my second one last Tuesday.  Doc removed three polyps.  Got the letter today.  "These polyps were benign but were the type that could have become malignant if not removed."

I go back in three years.

Sounds like the "misery" was worthwhile.   smiley_thumbsup

Larry, get a 2017 calendar somehow and get it scheduled!  We'd like to keep you around for a while ...

Not to worry...my Doc does a good job of scheduling. :D :D 

Same here, as a matter of fact I got a "update your health history" request from my proctologist just today!

I'll give him (the office) a call on Thursday or Friday, gotta go out of town tomorrow for a V.A. physical in Syracuse!

Seem to think I'm eligible for some svc connected disability!  We'll see.  ::)

Chuck I hope things went well for you. I am in the va health care also. I had to go to ann arbor va Thursday to meet with the doc that did my surgery told me I am cancer free now. another checkup in feb.

The appointment in the Syracuse VA clinic went well, haven't heard anything yet!

Called the proctologists office and they said they will call me after Christmas and New Years.

Going in Wednesday for my second scope, all I can say is I do like the peace of mind that comes from this invasion of my personal space and take solace in the fact that I only do this every so often. That poor doctor gets to deal with a##es everyday! ;D

Oh the indignity!  ::)

I'm so glad I had mine done @ 50; was free of any growths.

I slept through the entire procedure once I got on the table; they had to knock me out cold!

The only truly-irritating aspect is the prep; like eating 5 pounds of red legumes. :D

I turned 50 in November and just had my special birthday present last week. Besides the obvious embarassment, as others know, they pump you full of gas to get the scope in there and during recovery you are encouraged to expel it. Bad enough for sure, but my recovery nurse turned out to be a girl I had a crush on in jr. high school and in fact had asked out several times.  :-\

Yep 5 years ago.  Time to scheduled again.  The first time is the tough one due to the unknown.  I must admit I don't look forward to the flushing prior but the peace of mind about your health is worth it.

That's what I'll be doing on the 16th.  :-\

The 16th will actually be more comfortable than the 15th. ::)

Quote from: Chuck White on April 10, 2015, 03:04:04 PM
That's what I'll be doing on the 16th.  :-\

The 16th will actually be more comfortable than the 15th. ::)

You got that right Chuck! The day before, I shot Quail all night. That wasn't as bad as reloading the gun though.
YUCK!  steve_smiley

I am sure that you did not bag many birds using that approach.  They could probably smell you coming and FLUSHED before you could get there. 

Quote from: WDH on April 13, 2015, 08:27:56 PM
I am sure that you did not bag many birds using that approach.  They could probably smell you coming and FLUSHED before you could get there.

( old hunting story )  :D

DONE, glad that's over with!

Doc found/removed a few and said "nothing suspicious".

Probably be scheduled back in, in about 4 years, same as last time.

Good Chuck.  That couple of days of discomfort pays good dividends.   :)

You betcha, Lynn.  ;)   :)

Great news Chuck!  :)

There,glad that is done and over with.  Glad to hear all is fine.

"Bottoms Up".  Oh, maybe that belongs in the Old Saying thread?   :D

Proctologist last week, Dentist today.


Three extractions later!

Little discomfort, but I guess I'll survive.  8)

Howdy, I got a story. Was schuluded procedure friday. Had to get chest x-ray 'cause I've a spot on one lung. Blood tests ect. After my"rear admiral" got the blood tests, from a hundred yards away, where my medical insurance covered. All O.K.
8 p.m. I get a call from a nice lady @ the hospital: You have a procedure Top & Bottom on friday. Yes. You'll bring a check for $3100. with the other half due within 30 days.
I say please repeat that. Same thing. I said there's a problem. Please cancell.
Wife and I pay over $18,000. out of pocket for she & I. Call rear admiral, and he CALLED me back. Yes, ur insurance is that. It's Aetna Ins. Family doc say wait till U turn 65 this summer & get it "free".
P.s. SHMBO had both done in his office, same day. Now he HAS to do in Hospital for me. No longer in his office!

WOW!!!

If I were you, and turning 65 this summer, I'd wait too unless there's something suspected!

Good Luck.

Quote from: Chuck White on April 24, 2015, 04:17:35 PM
Proctologist last week, Dentist today.


Three extractions later!

Little discomfort, but I guess I'll survive.  8)

Are you sure each Dr. followed the right map and not each others?  :D :D :D

Yup, I know that they didn't shake hands in the middle!  smiley_beertoast   smiley_thumbsup


EDIT: Just got a call from the Doc and he said I'll see you in another 3 years!
No issues at this point.

Good news.   8)

Thanks Lynn!

i am glad you got a clean bill of health magicman

Going in am. Doc, wife and sister all agreed that I should have something shoved up my bum. Not looking forward to it, drinking this gallon jug of prep ia awful....
If Magicman can do it, I can.  ;D

I have never been able to drink it all before throwing up, but apparently I did drink enough.  :o

PatD has one scheduled when we get back from our Pig Roast trip.  :-X

Seem like when I had mine done,I only had to drink about 16 ounces of something that made me stay close to the toilet for a few hours.

That plus many glasses of water I suspect.   :o

I don't remember any big amount of water. But could of been. Water is not a bad thing to drink. Seem like we all remember the bad more than the good.

  I've had several due to my Mom having had colon cancer in her 60s (she turned 87 earlier this month), the first few times was a gallon of stuff but the last time was 2 qts of Gatorade plus some pills. No red or orange but I think the yellow was Ok, I used the clear Gatorade frost cherry flavor.

Take 3 Duculax laxative pills then mix 1 8oz / 235 gr bottle of dry smooth-lax which you get at Walgreens in a 32 oz bottle of Gatorade. No red, blue, orange purple or blue.
When that bottle is finished drink another 32 oz of Gatorade.
Enjoy.

I talked my friend into a colonoscopy, he's always been completely against it.
They found 32 polyps 7 tested bad but they think all were caught just in time.

Thanks Bill.  Members & Guest; do not avoid or postpone getting this done.  The life that you save could be your own.

We all joke about this, and it is an unpleasant subject, especially if you are the one that is "bottoms up", but it is a life saving procedure.

We have a friend that avoided getting checked even though both of her parents died from colon cancer.  Yup, bad news.   :-\

 

Yahoo..gotter done. Doc says see you in 10 years 8)
Now wife will have to go to next item on her list of things to remind me about.  smiley_contract

My how time flies.  PatD and I both got our papers in the mail today.  I meet for my preliminary on Aug, 26th and she on Sept 1st.  We are both so excited.   :-\

Today is my "clean out" day and the Colonoscopy is scheduled for tomorrow morning.  Oh how happy I am.  :-\

Just found this thread and I have never had one, we get a screen test from the cancer agency that we do every 2 years and my doc says that is all that is required, as there is no history in our family,  but my wife gets it every 3 to 5. I sure had a good laugh at Dave Barrys article,  though.

Did everything work out for you Lynn, and more importantly, did you survive? Need an update report, but no pictures.    ;)

I just got back home. No polyps and a clean bill of health.  Hallelujah.   8)

Thanks to all for the well wishes.   :)

Quote from: Magicman on September 03, 2015, 01:04:36 PM
I just got back home. No polyps and a clean bill of health.  Hallelujah.   8)

Thanks to all for the well wishes.   :)

You'll make 100 easy.  :)

That's good news, Lynn!   8)

Quote from: POSTONLT40HD on September 04, 2015, 08:31:37 PM

Quote from: Magicman on September 03, 2015, 01:04:36 PM
I just got back home. No polyps and a clean bill of health.  Hallelujah.   8)

Thanks to all for the well wishes.   :)

You'll make 100 easy.  :)

Let's see, that's only another 5 or 6 colonoscopies!   :D

Quote from: Magicman on July 24, 2015, 08:58:37 AM
Thanks Bill.  Members & Guest; do not avoid or postpone getting this done.  The life that you save could be your own.

We all joke about this, and it is an unpleasant subject, especially if you are the one that is "bottoms up", but it is a life saving procedure.

We have a friend that avoided getting checked even though both of her parents died from colon cancer.  Yup, bad news.   :-\

Very sound advise

Friday was my turn,  Examined and done,  Clean and clear, no issues.
No history, but why chance it??

If you haven't gone, go.

Best
Dan

Good news Dan, glad to hear it!  :)

I've been there done that a few times!  ::)

I am going for a check up on the 12th and get her to schedule me for one.  I am 59 so I guess its about time.  She (the dr.) has been after me for several years to get one.  Guess ya'll have more clout than her.   ;)  Banjo

Check out my recipe for colon cleansing. It's so good it should be in the cooking section! ;) 

Actually Bill, that is almost exactly what my clean out recipe was.   running-doggy It was the best that I have ever had.

Quote from: Chuck White on November 01, 2015, 09:26:31 AM
Good news Dan, glad to hear it!  :)

I've been there done that a few times!  ::)

Thanks Chuck

Quote from: Banjo picker on November 01, 2015, 09:12:23 PM
I am going for a check up on the 12th and get her to schedule me for one.  I am 59 so I guess its about time.  She (the dr.) has been after me for several years to get one.  Guess ya'll have more clout than her.   ;)  Banjo

Banjo you're up!!

Dan

Hope I get as good a report as you did.  My wife says I must take the med. the dr. prescribes.  I bet Bills would be better.  How would they know?  Banjo

They won't. Clean is clean.
I'm becoming a Pro at this colocleanout ;)

Add me to the ranks of the rear echelon. I will not voluntarily do that again.  >:(

Good Lee.   smiley_thumbsup

I watched an uncle die from colon cancer.  He did not do that voluntarily either.   :-\

Apparently my colon is a little different than most people and has a few extra turns to it. It was not a comfortable procedure and he was not able to scan all of it. The barium exam to follow up was not overly fun either and the prep for both procedures was no fun at all. But, I'm clear and good for another 10 years. I had a hernia repair the day after the colonoscopy so that added to the discomfort.

Can you stand up straight yet?   :-\

Mine is set up for the 28th of Dec.  Only 6 days to go.  Then I have to go to a heart dr. on the 29th, I recon they want to find out if I really have one.  :o      Banjo

I wish you the best with both my friend.

They generally always knock me out. Got another coming up in the spring I believe.

Quote from: Magicman on December 22, 2015, 07:55:50 PM
Can you stand up straight yet?   :-\

Feel the burn! ;)

Lynn,
I can stand up straight. Maybe it wasn't all that bad after all if you ask that.

After my double hernia surgery it was a couple of days before I could straighten up.   :-\

My hernia was abdominal and at an old incision sight from a previous surgery in 1999. It hurt less than the colonostomy.

Quote from: LeeB on December 22, 2015, 05:25:46 PM
Apparently my colon is a little different than most people and has a few extra turns to it. It was not a comfortable procedure and he was not able to scan all of it. The barium exam to follow up was not overly fun either and the prep for both procedures was no fun at all. But, I'm clear and good for another 10 years. I had a hernia repair the day after the colonoscopy so that added to the discomfort.

Kinda like opinions Lee!

Opinions are like ___________, everyone has one!  old saying!

Just thought I'd add a little humor to this subject!   ;)

Well I got itdone.  Drinking all that stuff was the worst part.  They found one small polup....pretty small about 5mm....to my thinking that's less than a 1/4 inch. I will know if it was cancerous when the results come back.  I hope it is not, but if it is I am glad its gone.  Going to have a couple of heart test tomorrow.   I will say there were some very nice folks at the center that did my procedure in Tupelo.  Banjo

Thanks for getting it done my friend.

I agree Banjo, the prep is the worse part!   ::)  :-X

X2. I had to do the prep 3 times in a row. Once for the colonoscopy, once for a hernia surgery the day after the colonoscopy and the next day after that again for a barium enema because my colon is weird shaped and they couldn't get the probe all the way around. The last one was by far the worst. Dr told me I was good for another 10 years. I sure hope they come up with a different procedure by then.  :-\

after 3 days of "cleansing" what did you ... ah nebber mine. :D

barium  ::)  :D :D

Quote from: LeeB on January 08, 2016, 07:56:10 AM
X2. I had to do the prep 3 times in a row. Once for the colonoscopy, once for a hernia surgery the day after the colonoscopy and the next day after that again for a barium enema because my colon is weird shaped and they couldn't get the probe all the way around. The last one was by far the worst. Dr told me I was good for another 10 years. I sure hope they come up with a different procedure by then.  :-\

Lee; In another 10 years they'll probably have a drive-through window!   ;D

I hope I don't.  :o

Got my test results back yesterday,  it was basically benign.  Said it was the kind that could turn into cancer if left too long.  I don't rember the medical name they called it, but said that my sons should get checked.....I doubt I will be that persuasive, but will try.  Said see you in 5 years.  The heart test said i had a normal amount of plaque.  Guess i just need to get in shape.  Need to stay around and watch my new granddaughter grow up.  Banjo

Quote from: Banjo picker on January 08, 2016, 11:49:09 AM
Need to stay around and watch my new granddaughter grow up.  Banjo

If that ain't enough reason to get it done, nothing is.

Glad to hear the good news, Banjo.

 Had my Colonoscopy done yesterday and doctor said all looked good, Just waiting for the test to come back.
While I was under they did a stomach to check on my acid reflex and they said it look ok. Said I am good
for 5 years before I need it done again.

Sawwood

Just an observation on some aftermath.  I had a colonoscopy last spring, 2 small polyps removed, everything else ok, to be scheduled again in 3 years.  However, I noticed that my bowel habits changed quite a bit. Not as regular, inconsistent from hard to soft and back again, sometimes couldn't go for 2 or 3 days.  I didn't think much of this figuring I would eventually get back to "regular," but it didn't happen.  In the fall I had back surgery, and before that a 1 month bout with acid reflux. It was a fun year to be sure.  Through all this I was experiencing a bunch of gas as well.  I know I should have gone back to see the doc,  but I didn't.
Anyway, my digestion still wasn't doing that well.  My wife suggested that I try "probiotics.."  I hate yogurt, tried a couple of times with no results, and finally saw a commercial for some Phillips "digestive health"stuff..  .1.5 billion little bacteria in each little pill. Long story short, I tried it and 3 weeks later everything is back to normal, maybe even better than before.  We figured that the clean out must have killed a bunch of essential bacteria that didn't grow back and needed to be replaced.  I've never heard this mentioned by the doctor  or anybody else, so I don't know how common this is.
Anybody else experience anything similar?

Cannot say that I have heard of this, but your explanation makes sense.  Did you discuss it with your gastroenterologist?

Not yet. But I have an appointment next week and I will bring it up.

Quote from: Crow99 on January 21, 2016, 10:41:51 AM
Just an observation on some aftermath.  I had a colonoscopy last spring, 2 small polyps removed, everything else ok, to be scheduled again in 3 years.  However, I noticed that my bowel habits changed quite a bit. Not as regular, inconsistent from hard to soft and back again, sometimes couldn't go for 2 or 3 days.  I didn't think much of this figuring I would eventually get back to "regular," but it didn't happen.  In the fall I had back surgery, and before that a 1 month bout with acid reflux. It was a fun year to be sure.  Through all this I was experiencing a bunch of gas as well.  I know I should have gone back to see the doc,  but I didn't.
Anyway, my digestion still wasn't doing that well.  My wife suggested that I try "probiotics.."  I hate yogurt, tried a couple of times with no results, and finally saw a commercial for some Phillips "digestive health"stuff..  .1.5 billion little bacteria in each little pill. Long story short, I tried it and 3 weeks later everything is back to normal, maybe even better than before.  We figured that the clean out must have killed a bunch of essential bacteria that didn't grow back and needed to be replaced.  I've never heard this mentioned by the doctor  or anybody else, so I don't know how common this is.
Anybody else experience anything similar?

Thank you Crow99, 
I too have experienced some similar effects 
thankfully no 2-3 day "waiting"

Dan

I had one done two years ago and only had to do the pills. I did have to drink a lot of non-red liquids to replenish though, so my wife bought gallons of blue gatorade. (Friends that had colonoscopies were very perturbed I didn't have to drink the nasty stuff. Heh heh heh, I laughed at them.) I had a clean enough report with only two polyps to watch, and they said I have diverticulosis. I'm soon to be 56 and I have eaten spicy food all my life and never had any bouts of diverticulitis, not even upset stomach after eating spicy.

One thing not to do is to sign the form allowing medical students to watch. I figured no problem, I'd be out cold and I'd never see them. Uhh, nope! Two girls came in while I was on the table on my side. I think the doc even introduced them to me. Oh well, they were in front so I was just whatever. [Dramatic Pause] Then the third girl came in. I guess she had bought season tickets or something because they parked her right at my rear. Hello! Only the doc had a better view. Luckily then the lights started... going...... out.........

On the way home my wife treated me to the greasiest double cheeseburger in town = WINNER!

I'm heading into the GI Doc this morning for every 2 year my pre scope consult. New Dr so we'll see how things go. I got used to the old Doctor, small fingers and a cute assistant.

Quote from: Raider Bill on February 11, 2016, 07:52:10 AM
I'm heading into the GI Doc this morning for every 2 year my pre scope consult. New Dr so we'll see how things go. I got used to the old Doctor, small fingers and a cute assistant.

small fingers are definately a must and a cute assistant helps take your mind off of it  ;D :D :D

Well I'm back. March 8th is the day. Met the new assistant, has a beard, mustache and looks like a power lifter. No idea what the Doc looks like. electricuted-smiley

 :o :o :o :o  :D

Started the prep this morning.

I figure this will be my 10th scope in 20 years.

Not getting any easier although I have perfected the prep sludge a bit so I don't have to drink quite so much of the nasty crap.

My condolences on the prep phase. Next to trying to not paint everyone in the exam room it's the worst part.

go-lightly,, ha ha, that's an understatement, it takes lots of imagination to slam that stuff down, by the time they rolled me in I couldn't care any less,

Well, I'll be setting up an appointment with the scope man. Some weird bowel things going on, so better get it checked.  ;)

Quote from: Raider Bill on February 11, 2016, 12:00:40 PM
Well I'm back. March 8th is the day. Met the new assistant, has a beard, mustache and looks like a power lifter. No idea what the Doc looks like. electricuted-smiley

Had fingers like a hoe handle.

I had a colonoscopy last Wednesday and everything went fine. They removed a few minor polyps while I watched on the monitor. I wasn't out completely but did not feel anything. Worst thing about the whole episode was it was really cold outside that day and those OR's are always cold but I had a hot air hose plugged into my gown so it wasn't too bad.

This week I got a thank you card from my Doc and his staff for allowing them to look.  :D

Good to hear the hot air hose was plugged into your gown!   ;D :D ;D :D

Seriously though, that hot air does make it a lot more comfortable!   :)

Well, the 3 day prep begins today, going in Monday morning.

Well, bottoms up to you.  :-X  

Actually I wish you the best outcome.  :-X

I hope everything comes out OK.   :-X

Well it seems that everything I say sounds crappy.   :-X

Anyway, you know what I mean.   :D

Yup, both ends in the middle. :D ;D

Colonoscopy certainly isnt my favorite thing.   But you could say its loosely a #2. 

The best part is what it might do to save your life.  The second best part is that concoction of drugs they give you, that stuff is as close to the after effect of..... as you will ever find.  'La Petite Mort' - the little death.

Everything went well. No troubles at all. Didn't even know it had happened. No discomfort of any sort after. That's the way to have it. :)

Good news and thanks for the report.  smiley_roller

Hope they used 2 diffeant ones. :D
Glad all is well.
The Doctor did that to me many years ago. He met in the middle.
I only had a little 8 oz bottle for the cleaning part. The cleaning happened quick and often. ;D Years ago,I think it was a gallon jug. :o

They use Pico-Salax mixed in 150 ml water here (9 hrs apart), and 500 ml of clear fluid an hour for 16 hrs. After awhile you wonder where your bladder is, I think it moved. ;D

Members, friends, colleagues.

PLEASE take care of this health related exam sooner than later,
My friend & neighbor succumb to colon cancer because he waited too long.

D

My bil did the same thing but the cancer was caught in time, he is a stubborn cuss. Doc told him that his beer and burgers diet had a lot to do with it, almost no vegetables or fruit so he forced himself to change.

I had mine about 3 weeks ago, I think that's the 5th one for me, my mom had colon cancer and lost a section of her colon plus it had spread to another organ, but between the surgery and chemo she survived for another 20 years.

I had my 5th 2 weeks ago, 3 small polyps removed and sent to the lab for testing as they are the type to turn cancerous.
On my 1st trip, 15 years ago, they found a tumour that was 9 years old and was the type that turns cancerous. The Dr said at the time ' I saved your life' it would have turned cancerous at year 10

I expect I'm headed for another one. My PSA doubled since last year. My Doc referred me to a urologist.   Couldn't get an appointment until November. 

Quote from: dgdrls on September 05, 2020, 12:15:37 PM
Members, friends, colleagues.

PLEASE take care of this health related exam sooner than later,
My friend & neighbor succumb to colon cancer because he waited too long.

D

Sorry you lost your friend and neighbor.  This is something that should not be put off.  I have a friend that waited till he was 55.  Had to have some of his colon removed due to cancer.  He regrets not just doing it.

10 years ago had first and no issues.  Due this year but believe I'll wait till next year versus going in during this time of Corona concern.

My dad is currently in middle of chemo for stage 4 colon cancer :(.  If chemo works to reduce the cancer, he will have his second surgery hopefully to remove the rest but he will have a bag for rest of his life.

He got checked 2 years ago, but had to go in due to having problems and found the cancer.

I just had mine done again after finding out, now I am on 3 year schedule due to having it in the family, and one possible cancerous polyp.

I cannot believe how expensive it is now due to Affordable Care Act (ACA).   It seems like everybody involved has sent me a bill, even for 2 full price 'office visits' though it was just a 10 minute phone call with a medical assistant..
Instead of 'screening' it is now 'diagnostic' due to previously finding a polyp and now having family history.

When its screening insurance covers it near 100% but diagnostic not.

Not trying to scare anyone away from having it done, I will be back in '23.

       JJ

Sorry to hear about your dad.  Half of my siblings (2 of us) have genetic defect called Lynch Syndrome.  We have a 100% chance of colon cancer (and a really high % of other cancers) so we are screened every year for colon and stomach.  As such, it is 100% covered because it is a screening.  

Just a heads up, genetic testing can be very illuminating.  At this point my brother has had colon cancer surgery (the reason we are checked for genetic issues) and I've had polyps taken out every year, 52 and had 8 colonoscopies to this point.  

I avoid sun, wear long sleeves and sun screen.  I eat lots of veggies, etc etc.  I'm living on borrowed time so do all I can to prevent it.  In any country other than the USA this would be a trivial $ issue, only the USA has such a screwed up health care system, we  spend 2x any other developed nation (per person) and have the shortest life expectancy of any developed nation.  

Here in NB it is free and they send us screening notifications.

February 2012 (I was 47) I had bad abdominal pain. Went to the doc and he felt it was diverticulitis but wanted me to get a CT scan to rule out other potential issues. His diagnosis was correct and after a round of antibiotics all was good.
He wanted me to get a colonoscopy to determine the extent of diverticulosis so I scheduled one in May of 2012 with a now very good friend of mine that is a colorectal surgeon. My wife sat in on the procedure (she worked at the hospital and knew him also) and he explained everything. He found one very small polyp and had difficulty removing it but finally got it. Told my wife no indication of any concern but would send it to the lab anyhow. 
2 days later they called me at work and said "We need to see you tomorrow". I asked the nurse if there was a problem and she said "I don't know ".
So next day I leave work early and go see the doc. I told him "Don't beat around the bush, just spill the beans". His reply was cancer. My heart never beat so hard as it did at that moment. I was scared to death. 
Had surgery on the 21st of June (I remember every date of this ordeal) and they removed 18" of my colon. Doc initially removed 10" but had a lack of blood supply and was concerned the connection wouldn't survive so he ended up taking another 8" and felt comfortable that it would be ok. I woke up from surgery and the first words out of my mouth was "Do I have a bag on my belly?" My wife said yes and I just cried. I was bitter like never before. Doc promised me it would be gone in 3 months. I had it for 3 years.
Colon died due to lack of blood flow. I got really sick and my surgeon got deployed to Afghanistan. Full bird Colonel. I needed help. Ended up at Cleveland Clinic. 
July 26th of 2013 I had another surgery to remove dead section of colon and reconnect. One of the best colorectal surgeons in the nation and she had the same issue, lack of blood flow but felt it would be ok. It died again and 2 weeks later she opened me back up to remove all the necrotic tissue. At that point I gave up and told my wife I was done and who to carry the casket. I've never felt pain like that and never want to again.
To make a long story longer I had another surgery on December 9th of 2014 and she completely removed all of my colon and formed a "J" pouch and on March 19th of 2015 she did a reversal and the bag was finally gone. I have good days and bad days. Sometimes bad enough I wish I had the bag back but that wish goes away pretty quick. I put an airpack on and fought house fires with that Dang thing on my belly. They told me I could dive with it. I opted not to though.
My point to this long winded story is DON'T put it off. Had I not had the colonoscopy to see how bad the diverticulosis was I may not be here today typing this reply.
I have Blue Diamond Habanero BBQ Almonds to thank for all of this as that's what I had ate the night before I started feeling bad. And boy they were good!
Don't mess around with this. I had no indication of the cancer, just the diverticulitis. It'll sneak up on you if you're not vigilant. 
Please, if not for yourself, do it for your loved ones.
Sorry for such a long post but I'm passionate about this. There's so much more to this story but I don't want to remember all of it. Make me want to eat Xanax like Chiclets.
Thanks you for reading,

Brent

Great advice 👍

Thank You Brent.  Yours and similar stories are the reason for this topic.  I have watched some of my relatives die from this dreadful disease and their death might have been averted if it had been diagnosed in time.

Brent what an ordeal, your here and alive .Carry on! 
So true what you say get one done sooner.

That's good incentive, I'm several years overdue.
I can say, the door swings both ways, the only reason I can get insurance is ACA. Our screwed up health care system is the real problem.

Just re read this thread and I am concerned.
Saw my gastro guy a few weeks ago.
Prescribed a cologuard which I just did last week.
Waiting for results to determine if a colonoscopy is needed.
I have had several in the past and have diverticulitis and had one non cancerous polyp removed last time in 2017.
quite a lot of dark stool lately.
Also suffer from IBS

Quote from: Don P on September 06, 2020, 10:32:36 PM
That's good incentive, I'm several years overdue.
I can say, the door swings both ways, the only reason I can get insurance is ACA. Our screwed up health care system is the real problem.

Dadgum, go get that scheduled!  ACA is also the only way I can get healthcare.  Indeed our system is the worst in the developed world. 

 It p's me off that we have to pay for a phone call now  >:(. With my cancer their doing this to me constantly.

My colonoscopy consultation appointment is next Wednesday.  :-X

As usual, we expect pictures! :o :o :o 8) 8) 8) :) :) :) :D :D :D ;)

This is the best that I can do.  ::)
Los Lobos - Deep Dark Hole - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqAMYEQOwNk)

that is good MM.  :) i went back and read prev. replies and did not realize this was such a serious thread.  my apologies.  hope everyone is doing Ok!  best of luck @Magicman (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=10011) 

its not too bad the worst thing is the Dang needle to knock you out.  Man I hate those.  After three eye surgery's in the last year you would think I would be over it, but no I aint.  I remember saying to the lady that knocked me out....man that stuff burns like fire....she smugly said "It wont hurt long."  and she was right then I woke up.  Took out a couple of polyps, or I might not be here by now....I'll be 65 in March and I should probably get another one.  Lynns post, got me to take the first one.  My dr. couldn't get me to.  Tim   

I have been on a 10 year schedule since my first colonoscopy.  As far as I am concerned the prep is worse than the procedure...

a fair number of "older folks"  wind up in the ED with nausea, vomiting diarrhea and dehydration, all from the prep.  we try to fix them up so they can still get the scope done, otherwise they will have to go thugh it again.  most of them swear they will never do it again!  remember old is defined as anyone older than me! :)  

I agree with the prep being the worse part. I did the prep then took a walk. The walk turned into a run going back to the house. I didn't know I could run so fast. What was I thinking ::)

there are several kinds of runs, my wife runs marathons.  which kind did you have?   8) 8) :o :o :D

Because of my age my doc wants me to have a FIT test (don't remember what that stands for) every two years which is easy to check for signs of cancer, if it comes back positive they go in with the camera. I am a bit overdue but the clinic is not doing tests due to the pandemic so it's hurry up and wait. A good friend had benign polyps removed, a miserable procedure. She was told they probably would become malignant if left untreated. This is nothing to fool with or ignore.

I got a letter I am due this year.  3 year since last one

Mine turned out well. 
3 polyps taken out again. 2 sent for biopsy. The new surgon believes I can wait 7 years for the next one.
8)

Thanks for the (favorable) update.

I'm scheduled for an appointment with the "G"man on the 30th, we'll set up an appt for the procedure at that time!

New Dr in town, the Dr for my previous procedures retired about 2 years ago!

I will have both an Endoscopy and a Colonoscopy on Monday September 21. This will be my 3rd colonoscopy, but the first time I was prescribed a split dose of the prep (PEG 3350, Sodium Cloride, Sodium Bicarbonate and Potassium Chloride for oral solution - with Lemon Flavor)  ::)
2 liters between 6pm - 8pm Sunday night and then the last 2 liters between 4am - 6am Monday morning. I have to be at the facility at 9am for the scheduled procedures.
Not sure I like this split dose method, but the nurse stated it gives the doctor a clearer view of the intestines and any polyps. I have had a few polyps removed during previous procedures so I guess this is for the best. One day every three or five years to prevent or catch anything in an early stage is not so bad.
But I sure will be glad come Tuesday morning...  :)

Add lemon aid powder to the mix, more palatable.

Well all the fun is over! Not Tuesday, but everything is A-OK.  Doc told me to come back in five years. 
8)

 8) Good to hear

Great to hear!!

Good for you and thanks for reporting back.  My initial consultation appointment has been moved from the 23rd until October 12th.

   Good to hear. My insurance folks sent me the at home test and it came back negative so I guess I dodged the roto-rooter bullet for a while.

Had mine first one done 2.5 yrs ago.
Ya guys are a bunch of whimps..... Easy peazy.  
Clean as whistle.
Was told those whom are constipated on a more regular basis have a higher incidence. Luckily I've rarely met her.

I have to have a covid test on october 8th as prep for colonoscopy on the 12th.

Well it's good you can't catch the covid after the test on the 9th, 10th or 11th. I guess covid takes a break on this days.... :o

Get ready for a head rush....

4 liters!!!!!   ::)  That's worse then the going.  :(  
Last time I had one I think I drank a small bottle, maybe and I say maybe, 8 ounces. But it worked. And I do mean it worked!!!

When I had my gallbladder removed, I was given an 8/10 oz bottle of something to drink the day before to clean me out. It seemed to work well! But not sure how clean the colon is after that. My doctor wanted my colon squeaky clean to check for polyps. I guess it looks better on the big screen TV in the procedure room.  :D

I did the routine poop test for occult blood @ July wellness visit. For the 1st time ever it came back positive and trying for proactive I went to my "G" man doc for a colon scope & endoscope as I have an acid reflux diagnosis ongoing too. The nurse told me that test is extremely sensitive. I'd actually aged out on further scopes but this one (and my covid screen to get in the hospital) were negative, including the biopsy material. I've never had a polyp before this recent test nor did I have one this time. Occult blood positives a mystery I guess? 
I paid the bill for anesthesia today @ $6.63 my share of Medicare with KY teacher retirement supplemental plan we get free. 
When my Gall bladder went septic in 2016 the ED doc said it needs to come out pronto! They shave my belly, iodined me and was on a gurney for surgery. That doc who was to cut comes in and asks me & my wife, both of us very non-medical folks, mind you, if we thought it would be better to wait until the next day. I asked the doc if he had a hot date since it was Friday nite. He laughed and walked out. Wife and I asked the nurses who said that it was on for Sat a.m. and that the doc gave an Rx for antibiotic to keep down infection. About mid-day Sat morning they sucked it out. I honestly think the doc just didn't want to to do the surgery that friday for some personal reason? I definitely didn't factor in with what the emergency doc had told me so far as that i needed a fast fix. 

It's hard to believe that I had not run across this topic before, it hits home for me.  I put off getting my colonoscopy when I should have, primarily because I had had two fecal occult tests which had returned negative (part of my department's periodic health screening back then). At age 55 I had some irregularity and a couple of bouts of severe cramping.  Visited my doctor and, after an x-ray, he said I should check into the hospital.  I asked how soon, he said to drive over there right now.  He said it could be IBS, diverticulitis, or cancer... but that he was leaning towards cancer.

Called my wife on the way to the hospital, got checked in and had my first colonoscopy that evening.  Of course, having no prep and being backed up, they didn't get very far but did find a large tumor.  Surgery scheduled for the next afternoon.  Considering that I had always been healthy and had never been hospitalized other than a sleep test, it was quite a shock - especially for my wife and daughter.  My surgeon removed a large tumor, a couple of lymph nodes and about 20 inches of my descending colon.  While they were in there he also removed my gallbladder (must have been a sale or something).  I woke up with a couple of tubes, nasal and catheter, and an "appliance" on my belly.  Nothing by mouth (no food, drink, or even water) for 10 days.  A month later they installed a port in my chest and I had chemo for 6 months plus 28 days of radiation.  A strict schedule of colonoscopies since then, every 6 months for 2 years, yearly for 3 years, I am now on three year surveillance, I think I have had 8 or 9, they have never found a polyp or anything else.

Started having problems about a year after surgery and after barium tests, they thought my intestines might have adhered improperly after surgery so a laparoscopic surgery was scheduled for an overnight stay.  Woke up with several tubes again, 5 days this time with no food or water.  Apparently, during my radiation treatments, a section of my small intestine filled the void and was killed by the radiation, which meant another bowel re-section.  The surgeon said it was like splicing a 2" hose to a 1" hose with stitches.  He also repaired a ventral hernia from the first surgery but I told him he made a mistake.  I had asked him to use that mesh that was pre-formed into a six-pack but he got the wrong one and must have used one for a keg.  Unfortunately, after some extensive exams and testing, they felt that reattachment surgery was unlikely to be successful due to atrophy of the remaining tissue so the bag will be permanent.  Inconvenient as it can be (especially at colonoscopy prep time), the fact is that I am still here, it'll be 14 years next month.

Although you might perceive it as potentially embarrassing, make sure you get it done.  Yes, it changed my life, but I still have my life. My retirement, my sawmilling 'career', more years with my family, a grandson, and all the great people I have met since then (including those on FF) are experiences I have had because they caught it in time.

Good advice. Glad your doing well 👍

Thanks Tom,
Your story encourages me.
I just got an update about my dad, he is responding well to the chemo treatment.  The tumor is diminished in size and the cancerous spots on his liver and lungs have also gotten smaller so they are going to continue the chemo instead of surgery like they had planned.  If he goes to surgery now it would interrupt the chemo treatment for at least 2 months.

It has been a long time since I have seen him, but he sounds good on the phone and he is walking a mile every day.

      JJ

I'm not sure if I've posted this before, but when you're "cleaning out", get some Desitin, or other diaper rash barrier, it will go along ways towards reducing the "fire" sensation. 

Tom, thank you for posting your story. I'll never forget the PM you sent me years ago. You encouraged me during a very trying time and I'm forever grateful for it. As you know I had an ileostomy for several years and since had a reversal and a "J" pouch after a full colectomy. It's not without its challenges and no day is the same so to speak but I'm still kickin it and loving life everyday.
Please everyone don't put this off. The prep ain't nothing compared to the alternative. I know that all to well.

Brent 

Thanks for telling your stories Tom And Dbltree. 
Like you say The prep is nothing compared to the alternative.
I was told by the Dr.,  Colon cancer is one of the only cancer that is  100% curable, if they get the polyp removed .

Sadly, many people don't get scoped based on unwillingness to do the cleanout procedure. 
I'd *DanG sure rather be alive than avoiding logical, proactive medical procedures.
The latest version of that same mentality is the news and polls which have millions saying they avoid a vaccine, or more precisely, covid-19 vaccine if it happens. Same for seasonal flu-millions avoid a know vaccine. 
Yes, I am pointing fingers if the shoe fits, wear it for now... ::)
My friend down the road buys a 6 pound hunk of "KY Border" brand bologna each week.
 Wish his gizzard luck?  ;)
 FWIW, he's in that group of don't get scoped, etc. etc., cause it's too much trouble. meanwhile he and his wife go to docs constantly then do nothing at home as a follow-up.
 Go figure on that... 
 

Tomorrow I go in for the mandatory covid test, then quarantine until monday when I get the tubular peek a boo.

So many of us on here getting scoped that I feel like I'm hanging out with a bunch of old guys.

Not happy about having to now postpone my teeth cleaning friday that now has been almost a year because of 6 months of covid delays.  At least they wont have a chance to cornfuse that with the other two procedures now.

if they decide to do them all at once, make sure they wash there hands!   :o :o :o  :)  

My only request was for them to do the endoscopy first; before the colonoscopy... :D

My guy made sure to tell me they used different instruments, not that I remember, thank God for anesthetics.

Had the covid tickle my eyeball from the backside test yesterday. Not enjoyabe. Now I'm supposed to hunker down until Monday. 

Man, they got some good drugs now. The prep stuff tasted nasty, but I chuggalugged it and it was done. Has 2 pills 3 times. If somebody added the flavor to that prep they didn't do anybody any favor! Worst part of the prep is not eating for dang near 2 days!  

They stuck an iv in me and wheeled me into the O.R., the Dr greeted me and I wake up back in the room I started in. Like a mini nap. And Sober! Well, almost sober. :D 

Anyhow, he saw nothing of any concern.

(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10007/a~2.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1602949051)

That's funny. Twisted, but funny! 🤡

I'm up for mine. My old Doc retired so I get a new one. Went in to see him Friday but had to speak with his assistant. I guess he was playing golf.
Anyway I always have a upper and lower done at the same time. No more, they do them separate now so I have to get knocked out twice, find a driver twice and take twice as much time off work.
Blamed it on the rona..
Everything gets blamed on the rona.

I think I would find a different doctor.  One that would do both procedures at the same time. Insurance should back you up on that as they don't like to pay twice for what could be done during one procedure.
And don't think bad about the doctor not being in his office on Fridays. He might be sawing logs on his sawmill... :D

After 60, let your doc advise how often. In my case the last one I had(actually, my first) they cut out two polyps.

So in my case they said come back in three yrs(about now) and if they had found nothing, about every five yrs. 


Kevin

I would ask your new doc if you can get them at the same visit, often a new doc may not realize how their front desk is scheduling.  believe or not.

I called the endoscopy center where they do them. Same place as I've always gone. They said that's the way they do them now for everyone.
Will also have to get 2 more rona tests.

Do you know the most popular drink of 2020?

The colonoscopy prep.

TR, that would NOT be funny, if it were not probably TRUE!

I think my next one is next year sometime.  I already have an appointment set up with doc for 2 year follow up.  It was supposed to be an in person appt. that was scheduled over a year ago.  They called me last week and said that they are changing all appts. even out to May to virtual.  I guess he really won't need to look at anything, will he?  I guess we will talk about scheduling the colonoscopy later in the year.  I had one polyp at the previous one.

I guess you will be a little surprised when you get a ups delivery with a long tube, and they tell you to plug the other end into a USB port, and "log on"!   :D :D :D   :o :o :o    :) :) :)

Oh man!  I hope not.  

Doc H, that was some kind of classic! And just plan hilarious.

Now, if it were only REALLY that easy, then my GI would have me doing one every month! I do have Chron's.

well they do have the little cameras you swallow like a pill, and download the video.

Quote from: doc henderson on November 26, 2020, 06:25:49 PM
well they do have the little cameras you swallow like a pill, and download the video.

collecting the pill is  bit of a sticky wicket.

TR, MOST of time, I can exhaust through a door screen and never touch a wire. That is why I dropped 100lb in 2yr before I went to a GI. Then I was diagnosed with the Chron's. In 2004 they had do a bowel resection that took the union area of my large and small intestine. 1' of small and 6" large. THEN I almost died from an infection that wasn't caught in my 1 week recovery. They sent me home on a Friday afternoon and was feeling terrible all weekend so my family got me back to the hospital Monday morning and THEN they kept me an additional 2 weeks!

The reason for the resection was the amount of scar tissue my Chron's caused a blockage of some sort. I never got a total answer satisfactory. But I didn't care! Reason being of not caring: 2yr of ever increasing pain from internal spasms of sorts, GI said was from my innerds' still trying to pass exhaust as a normal person would but try do so on an ever increasingly smaller "pipe". They finally admitted me for the surgery due to constant (think automotive) backfire like a potato shoved tightly into the exhaust pipe! OH GOSH!!! The stuff I regurgitated! And the smell that was stuck in my nasal cavity, well I'm sure you can tell from my description what it was that came through on the backfires!

YES! 

And I'm LUCKY to be alive and have survived! 

They patched up my abdomen with 33 staples and still have a noticeable scar. For SEVERAL years it looked like a zipper. I could clearly look and see it. 

I returned to work after something like 6wk light duty but I increasingly felt more capable. I started carrying 5gal buckets of hydraulic fluid because I felt better and better. I was tickled to go almost full force! My full force was deadlifting a totally stripped small block Chevy. Not on a regular basis, but still to the amazement of my colleagues! I loved making them look at me slack jawed because they had never seen anyone do such a thing!

My outlook on life somehow changed! I didn't even notice at first, but the people around me did. I came to realize "we are ALL just temporary"!

And my life continues one day at a time and even got married the first time on 5-15-15. Easy date to remember. I was in NAPA surroundings and sold many a automotive oil filter that are Wix. THE most popular part #, 51515 for over 50% of Ford automotive 1985 and earlier! She picked the date and who was I to not agree🤐. I didn't tell her until after the day why I would never forget our anniversary! Aahhh, good times! And now you know MY story.

Glad your doing great 👍

Constant state of outhouse-trots, so hard to tell the difference from some of the earlier symptoms of Covid-19, but hey, THE PAIN IS GONE. I just have the unnerving feeling that I'll be like this to the end. At my "largest" point in life 290lbs in 1993ish, March 2004 (no question) after surgery still in hospital 155lb. I'm 6'0". One of my 2 sisters said then "Todd, your caboose looks inverted"! I might have been 290 but I played football nose guard and their wasn't much that got by me! Now having fun using my 2 Husky 372's and Echo CS550P! The worst part is the M.S. I have. Another story story on that (another time). BTW, this is according to my Echo dealer: CS=chain saw, 550=55cc+a 0 to look better, P=professional. I can only comment that it makes some sense. Oh, and the constant bathroom breaks, they really do a number to deer hunting. I carry T.P. in the field but I can't carry an entire roll on the bad days!

I have an appointment with a "Submarine Captain Ben Dover" tomorrow. :-X  I'll be downloading ballast today and be ready for the "up periscope" early tomorrow morning.  :o  Me thinks that today will be crappy.   ::)

Good luck Lynn!

I had mine done just this past Friday, nothing found but empty space!         

Doc said, "see you again in about four years"!      8)             :)

Jackie has hers next week. I'm just a spectator .😁 I've got a couple years before my next one.

To quote Captain Kirk, "to go where not man has gone before".

Quote from: Texas Ranger on January 18, 2021, 09:01:21 AM
To quote Captain Kirk, "to go where not man has gone before".

Solo never said that. :D

I was at the hospital this morning at my appointed time of 6:30, only to find out that my Doctor/Surgeon was involved with a serious emergency that would take several hours.  I was given the option of either rescheduling or waiting.  Well that option was not an option, after cleaning out I was not gonna reschedule.  Anyway, I waited and was wheeled in at 12:30.  Bottom line, clean bill of health and I can wait 5 years for my next "procedure". 

Lynn,

   Sounds like a real pain in the ... (well, never mind). ::) Anyway glad to hear about the great report. If you're gonna spend all that time riding that magic carpet seat you have to make sure your setter is working right. :D

Quote from: Magicman on January 19, 2021, 05:12:02 PM
I was at the hospital this morning at my appointed time of 6:30, only to find out that my Doctor/Surgeon was involved with a serious emergency that would take several hours.  I was given the option of either rescheduling or waiting.  Well that option was not an option, after cleaning out I was not gonna reschedule.  Anyway, I waited and was wheeled in at 12:30.  Bottom line, clean bill of health and I can wait 5 years for my next "procedure".

Magic-Glad that came out OK! Nothing like a shiny colony after all it's been through, orshould I say-"been through it"? :D
Since we are the same age and thus my question (if it's not something personal-if so just avoid my asking?) as to why you'd get another scope in 5 years? I got one in August, 2020 based on a a done at home stool test kit result done as part of my annual wellness checkup. Though I'd personally noticed zero change in bowels, the nurse said the test is very sensitive to occult blood so the same doc who'd done all but my first colon scope did another when I'd been told I was aged out on further scopes based on age. It was a precautionary one and I was given the same clean bill of colon health as before-I've never had a polyp trimmed as yet. 
Mine-I might of well have waited as did you as they were backed way up due to covid stopping many commonly done procedures. In that same mention-I got to my oral surgery appointment 6 months later due to covid. I would conjure a guess that a few folks might have died due to these wait and see things or personal fear of going out where the virus lurks as has affected more than we will ever know among the worry wart crowd. 

Quote from: WV Sawmiller on January 19, 2021, 06:15:24 PM
Lynn,

  Sounds like a real pain in the ... (well, never mind). ::) Anyway glad to hear about the great report. If you're gonna spend all that time riding that magic carpet seat you have to make sure your setter is working right. :D

Talking "pain in the ass"-has anyone else had the hemorrhoid electrical treatments prior to invasive surgery? The doc chooses a variously sized black rod which is hooked up to an electric gizmo and the idea is to shrink the bad guy via electrical shock. Yes, this is factual and not a fun thing which my doc tried several times. "Now, bend over... ;D . 
Same doc retired this past year as he's my age and from the rural county just east of me, Morgan CO., and a true hillbilly doctor. Here's a classic career counseling tale he shared. Knowing I was a Vo-Tech school counselor at that time in late 1980's when I was seeing him (culminating in the surgery in 1990) he told me his story about his choosing a medical career. His HS counselor was gathering a group of kids to take them on a yellow bus, medical careers tour as it were. Her criteria for who could go was to have a "B" or better HS grade average or in her theory you were not medical career material. Michael B. had a "B-" grade average and asked to sign up after hearing they were going but was told he wasn't up to becoming a doctor. Same doc told my buddy, Bill K., the electrical instructor and my age,  that if there was such a thing as a "butt doctor", well he guessed he was one".  ;D He also did general surgeries. 
BTW, my nephew is a mid-40's aged surgeon now and had a not so un-similar, B+ grade average at another E KY HS he attended with our oldest son. 
 

Due to the amount of findings this past test I'm back on the once a year schedule.
Something else to look forward to every year.

There's nothing like "through a screen door and NEVER touch a wire"🧐

Quote from: kantuckid on January 20, 2021, 07:09:36 AMwhy you'd get another scope in 5 years? ..........I've never had a polyp trimmed as yet.

That is the difference.  I have had many polyps removed (yearly) and a family history of such.  At one time I was on a yearly schedule but thankfully not now.  This is my second time to have a 5 year interval.

I was on a 3 year interval after having a polyp removed plus my mother had colon cancer but now back to 5 years.

Quote from: gspren on January 20, 2021, 09:28:15 AM
I was on a 3 year interval after having a polyp removed plus my mother had colon cancer but now back to 5 years.

My Mom had part of her colon removed due to cancer and she lived several more happy years, then died in hospice of Pancreatic cancer.
The difference in some part between us is that she smoked from WWII to a few years before she died as did my Dad, while I never smoked. She was a very active person and had a very healthy lifestyle, other than tobacco.  Maybe a lot of things, huh, as we never really know what all adds up?

When I get the typical Q&A thing on family medical history they are asking me about a Dad who had both Scarlet Fever & Rheumatic fever as a child plus after being a pro ballplayer came the war and he smoked his entire life, during WWII and afterwards.  They also Q&A about my grandparents who are from the Victorian Age when medical treatments were so far different from now that it's not even funny. I get the genetics aspect but otherwise much has changed since the 1880's. 
 

I am back on track for my yearly testing.  Our genetic issue means half the brothers (me included) are going to get a variety of cancers but colon cancer is top of the list.  We annual checkups even our crazy colon risk is manageable.  So thrilled to get back on track next week with a pre procedure call.  Hopefully get it scheduled for April.

Well, I"m drinking black coffee this morning.  Clear liquids all day and start drinking the stuff at 2pm.  My procedure is at 7am tomorrow.  It takes an hour to get to the hospital.  I have to arrive an hour early.  I have to get up 2 hours before we leave for hospital to drink the magnesium citrate.  The math tells me I have to get up at 3am.

You got this Bill. Wishing you great results tomorrow.
I hates Mag Citrate. I did that stuff with a loop Ileostomy. Filled that thing up while I was sleeping and never knew it until it was too late. smiley_furious3 Not fun!!

Brent

Guys, that's like my problem, I've got to go NOW if not SOONER!

best wishes for good results and a relatively comfortable procedure, Bill.  Best Regards, Doc.