Had you been colonoscopies prior to the diagnosis? Had polyps been discovered previously?
Coloscopies are the biggest preventative measure for this if you have a history or symptoms (you know this, but I'm telling everyone). I've been having them regularly since age 32...I should probably say now I was lucky to be symptomatic (blood) because that's what got me into the doctor where polyps were discovered. No colon cancer history in my family but polyps are commn on my father's side later in life. The doctors keeps asking if my family has a history of colon cancer because I was so young when the polyps started. Yes, they are the kind that can turn cancerous...the good news is they tend to have a very slow growth, so I just have to keep up with the check ups/colonoscopies. The bad news is no health insurance currently, but I'm due for one so hoping they will work wth me.
You sound like you have a very positive attitude and I truly believe this is 95% of the battle. I know you are scared, but I have faith (I know not a popular word around reddit). You can do it. Don't be afraid to lean on your loved ones when needed. That's what they are there for and it will help them to feel useful at a time when they may be feeling helpless to do something for you. Lots of love to you!
justagirlinnyc8 karma
Had you been colonoscopies prior to the diagnosis? Had polyps been discovered previously?
Coloscopies are the biggest preventative measure for this if you have a history or symptoms (you know this, but I'm telling everyone). I've been having them regularly since age 32...I should probably say now I was lucky to be symptomatic (blood) because that's what got me into the doctor where polyps were discovered. No colon cancer history in my family but polyps are commn on my father's side later in life. The doctors keeps asking if my family has a history of colon cancer because I was so young when the polyps started. Yes, they are the kind that can turn cancerous...the good news is they tend to have a very slow growth, so I just have to keep up with the check ups/colonoscopies. The bad news is no health insurance currently, but I'm due for one so hoping they will work wth me.
You sound like you have a very positive attitude and I truly believe this is 95% of the battle. I know you are scared, but I have faith (I know not a popular word around reddit). You can do it. Don't be afraid to lean on your loved ones when needed. That's what they are there for and it will help them to feel useful at a time when they may be feeling helpless to do something for you. Lots of love to you!
Edit: I'm also currently 38 (female)
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