A primary danger of colorectal cancer is its ability to develop within any outward signs. This masking ability allows it to remain the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Colorectal cancer can be detected and defeated in its early stages through the use of a colonoscopy. However, although a recommended medical procedure, a number of people forgo it due to myths. Don't let a myth get in the way of your health. Here are some of them.
Is An Uncomfortable Situation
For the purpose of fair disclosure, it's important to note that having a colonoscopy isn't exactly the average person's idea of a good time. However, this also doesn't mean it's a terrible experience. Any ideas of discomfort are typically false, as the procedure is performed under the aide of sedation to keep you relaxed.
In terms of being in an uncomfortable position, colonoscopies simply require that you lie down on your side in a comfortable position. Most importantly, it is performed by a medical staff that is driven by your health and comfort.
Only Necessary When There Are Warning Signs
Some people are under the impression that a colonoscopy is only necessary when you are experiencing a complication, such as difficulty or pain when passing stools. However, as previously alluded, cancers in this region typically don't come with a single symptom.
It doesn't matter if you aren't experiencing any rectal concerns outwardly, if you are over the age of 50, you should be having this procedure performed somewhere around every 10 years. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or have an unusual test result, you may need more frequent examinations.
Comes Along With A Lot Of Prep
In order to ensure a more accurate assessment, the colon needs to be very clean. Common misconceptions for this process include the idea that you can't eat for the days leading up to the procedure or that you have to drink an awful tasting liquid.
The reality is that you can still eat certain healthy foods in the days leading up to the procedure, and there is no need to fear the idea of fasting. Your current health and any medications you are taking will play a part in determining what you can or cannot eat.
Don't let a myth about a colonoscopy keep you from having this critical preventive procedure performed. Remember that your health is far too important to make this type of mistake.
For more information, contact Kinston Medical Specialists PA or a similar company.
Share29 September 2016
My name is Katie Langer. For a long time, I was bed ridden and I felt like I had no control over my life. I simply went along with what was instructed by my doctor and I didn't ask questions. It wasn't that my doctor wasn't willing to work with me, but I preferred to simply not think about the illness I was suffering from. I didn't realize that some of the symptoms I was suffering from were side effects of my medication and were not normal. After communicating more with my doctor, I was able to alleviate my symptoms. Since then, I've taken an interest in patient-doctor relationships and how to improve them.
