Getting a Colonoscopy could Save your Life

Colonoscopies are a vital screening to determine whether you have colon cancer. Embarrassment, fear of pain or worrying what the doctor may find keeps some people away from this screening. A colonoscopy examines the inside of the intestine using a long flexible scope. During the test, the doctor can detect and remove polyps, which are lumps in the lining of the colon before it becomes cancerous. Many think the procedure lasts all day but it takes 20 to 45 minutes with an hour recovery time. The pain and discomfort level is minimal but some facilities provide sedation to make patients more comfortable. People don't think they need a colonoscopy unless they have a family history of colon cancer, but that is not true. Others won't have the procedure done if they aren't experiencing symptoms. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recommends colon cancer screenings to begin at age 50. But if you're at a higher risk, screenings should start at an earlier age.