Fears Patients Have Before a Colonoscopy

You're 45, maybe 50, and haven't scheduled a colonoscopy screening yet. Time to get on that. You may believe that colonoscopies are pointless for a variety of reasons, leading you to refuse or postpone your colonoscopy screening altogether. You may feel in charge of your colorectal health already or you may be dreading the preparation for the treatment.

Here are a few typical reasons people put off getting a colonoscopy, along with our replies as a gastroenterologist. In a nutshell, don't put off getting this life-saving screening done! See here to know what patients get afraid of while going for a colon cancer screening.

I'm afraid of having a colonoscopy because of how it sounds.

We promise you won't feel a thing during the treatment because you'll be sedated with an IV and we'll make sure you're comfortable. So that you're aware, we don't simply check for signs of colorectal cancer but also for other benign disorders in the colon. Inflamed tissue, ulcers, and diverticula are all harmless growths in the colon. If precancerous polyps are found, they may be removed.

Unfortunately, a colonoscopy screening isn't something my insurance will pay for.

This isn't always the case. If you are eligible, most insurance companies will pay for a colonoscopy screening. If you know you need a colonoscopy, talk to your doctor and your insurance company to find out what's covered and what you'll have to pay out of pocket.

Is it mandatory that I consume the liquid prescribed for my upcoming colonoscopy?

If you're worried about the flavor, you can discuss it with your doctor. While the liquid diet the day before a colonoscopy is something we can help with, we have no control over how many times you need to use the bathroom during the procedure. The preparation enables us to clearly observe your colon with the colonoscope—or the long tube with just a camera and light—in order to precisely detect any anomalies in your gastrointestinal tract.

My ignorance of colonoscopies won't do any harm to me.

Colorectal cancer prevention probabilities may be good, but is it really worth the risk? No. Colon cancer screening for those at average risk should now begin at age 45, according to the American Cancer Society. Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns or questions about getting screened for colon cancer.

In my opinion, a colonoscopy screening is not necessary at this time due to my good health.

The good news is that there are lifestyle choices you can make to minimize your risk of developing colon cancer, but this is only one part of the picture. Colon cancer risk factors may include a family history of the disease and advanced age. For the time being, screening for colorectal cancer every ten years is the recommendation for people with a normal risk. That little period of time has the potential to be really eventful!

A colonoscopy screening is a must, and early detection of colorectal cancer can save a person's life when done properly. To catch colorectal cancer in its earliest stages, patients should have regular colonoscopy tests. Schedule your visit with Screen The City in OKC and get the test done instantly.

**Disclaimer: This blog content does not intend to offer a doctor’s advice and mentions no relationship between any patient and the care provider.