I'm probably way too young for one (and I'm scared about having one), but I'm wondering when should I start getting checked? Most people say that you should start getting check after 50 years old, but my dad got his when he's 50 and he got diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer that metastasized to his liver. According to the doctor, he probably had the cancer for a while and it probably started developing during his 40s or earlier. There's pretty much no hope for him now since now it had spread to his lungs somehow, and I learned that he had family members who died from colon cancer. Since I have a family history of this, when is the appropriate time to get screened? I'm currently 18 years old.
2007-10-07 05:27:59 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Cancer
My doctor had ordered one for me, and I am 28 years old. It came up clear - which is good. Talk to your doctor to see what he/she says about and if you really need to have one, but it would be a good idea to have it done so you know if everything is all right.
2007-10-07 09:36:49 · answer #1 · answered by Roxas of Organization 13 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
IF you already know that your dad had cancer by 50 then you need to get with your dad's colon doc and find out what he suggests on a timeline for other family members. I have had several colonoscopies. I don't remember any of them....they put you OUT to do them. They are no big deal....the prep for them is worse than the colonoscopy. Life is better than colon cancer, too. You are dealt some cards, now play your hand.
2007-10-07 09:20:16 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would discuss your concerns with your doctor. If you have a family history of bowel cancer then you definately should get checked. I know you are scared about it but it is not a painful procedure and it is better than getting cancer it is a horrible disease. My Mum just passed away from a rare form of kidney cancer i know what your going thru.
2007-10-07 14:28:00 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would think an appointment by the age of 25 to discuss this with a Proctologist (I believe that is who you should see) would be a smart Idea. Get his opinion. He will be able to tell you when you should have the colonoscopy.
Good Luck. With the history you have eat healthy and take every precaution. What you eat and a healthy digestive system is a MAJOR part of staying healthy.
2007-10-07 10:04:22 · answer #4 · answered by ? 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Considering your family history, it may be appropriate for you to begin your screenings when you turn 40 or even earlier. Check with your doctor and get a "second" opinion.
2007-10-07 05:31:38 · answer #5 · answered by TweetyBird 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeah get checked it's a bit uncomfortable to have a dude stick there finger up your rear end,but better to be safe and just do it,i did it sucks but hey i know now that i'm good to go.
2007-10-07 05:43:26 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
in england its called a endoscopy...its not a finger but a small camera that goes up the anal canal...a bit uncomfortable but not painfull, for the sake of your health its worth it.
2007-10-07 05:49:10 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋