HealthyLife Articles

Tag: colon

  • 4 Reasons To Get Your Colonoscopy

    MEDICAL NEWS

    Illustration of doctor's hand with the word "Colonoscopy."

    If you’re age 50 or older, your doctor may have recommended you get a colonoscopy. This test, which uses a thin, lighted tube to view inside the colon and rectum, checks for:

    *  Polyps, which are growths or bumps that could turn into cancer

    *  Colorectal cancer (cancer in the colon and/or rectum)

    A colonoscopy gives the doctor a chance to remove polyps and possible cancerous growths during the test.

    Even though a colonoscopy is a safe and effective way to help prevent colorectal cancer or find it early, many people put off getting one. This is often because they are nervous about the test or they don’t want to do the “prep.” Preparing for a colonoscopy usually means you take medicines that cause diarrhea the day before the test. This can be inconvenient, but it’s worth the hassle.

    Here are 4 good reasons you should call your doctor about scheduling it today:

    1.Early colon cancer has no symptoms.Many people have polyps or even colon cancer for months or years and don’t know it. A colonoscopy can find these things early and increase the chances of a good outcome. The earlier colon cancer is found, the higher the likliehood of successful treatment.

    2.One day of prep could save your life.No one likes to have diarrhea. But, one day of prep means you’re getting a test that checks for a common and sometimes deadly cancer. In fact, the American Cancer Society says more than 50,000 Americans will die from colorectal cancer in 2018. It is the third most common cancer in the U.S.

    3.There are ways to make the prep easier.Ask your doctor about adding certain flavorings to your medicine to make it taste better. Also, there are many clear liquids other than water you may be able to drink. Sports drinks, tea, coffee, popsicles and some broths may be allowed. Usually, red, blue and purple dyes need to be avoided, but other flavors are fine.

    4.Can’t put a price on peace of mind.With so many people being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, isn’t it worth a day of discomfort to know that you’ve been screened? Even if a polyp or possible sign of cancer is found, you can get on the path to treatment that could be life-saving.

    Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health, American Cancer Society

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Important Health Screenings For Men

    WELL-BEING

    Image of male doctor.

    Even if you feel fine, you should see your doctor for regular health screenings. Many health conditions cause no symptoms in their earliest stages. Screenings can help you get earlier treatment and a better outcome. The National Institutes of Health recommends the following tests for men:

    Abdominal aortic aneurysm:

    Adults ages 65 to 75 who have smoked may need this screening once. Others should consult with their doctor.

    Blood pressure:

    Every one to two years, depending on your risk factors or health conditions.

    Cholesterol:

    Beginning at age 35, every five years if levels are normal. Men with high blood pressure, other risk factors for heart disease or certain health conditions may need to get screened sooner or more often.

    Colon cancer:

    Screening may begin at age 50, or earlier, if you have a family history of the disease, certain risk factors or certain health conditions.

    Diabetes:

    Every three years beginning at age 45. Earlier and/or more frequent testing may be advised if you have certain risk factors.

    Eyes:

    Every one to two years, or more often if you have glaucoma, have certain eye conditions or if your doctor recommends it.

    Hearing:

    Adults over age 65 may need a hearing test if signs of hearing loss are present.

    Lung cancer:

    Annual screening may be recommended for adults aged 55 to 80 years who have a 30 pack-year (smoke one pack per day for 30 years) smoking history AND currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

    Osteoporosis:

    Discuss screening with your doctor if you are over age 50.

    Physical exam:

    Height, weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) should be measured at well visits.

    Prostate cancer:

    Discuss screening with your doctor. Men with certain risk factors may need screenings beginning at age 45.

    Sexually transmitted infections:

    Depending on age, lifestyle and medical history, you may need to discuss with your doctor about getting tested for chlamydia, syphilis, HIV and other infections.

    Men of all ages and health statuses need regular health screenings. Call your doctor to schedule your well visit!

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine