Wellness Archives - Unstressed Life

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Get Peace of Mind, Get a Colonoscopy

For many years, I avoided the idea of getting a colonoscopy. Like many people, I found the prospect of the procedure daunting and uncomfortable. But as I approached 50 and heard countless reminders from my doctor about the importance of this screening, I finally decided to take the plunge at 49. What I discovered during this process not only relieved my anxiety but also underscored the critical benefits of getting a colonoscopy. Here, I want to share my experience and highlight why this procedure is essential for everyone approaching middle age. The Decision to Get a Colonoscopy Deciding to get a colonoscopy wasn’t easy. I had heard all the stories about the unpleasant preparation and the discomfort of the procedure itself. However, what ultimately pushed me to schedule the appointment was a combination of factors: my age, my doctor’s insistence, and a personal family tragedy. My father passed away from…

Alcoholism

Two Years Sober and Counting

July 26th marked the two-year anniversary of the last time I took a drink. As I reflect on this milestone I’m surprised at how much of my life has changed since then. Don’t get me wrong…there are still all kinds of issues in my life but it is so much better now! For starters I no longer lose part of my weekend! Before I would drink on Friday and Saturday evenings. As a result I would be groggy and lethargic every Saturday and Sunday morning. This was terrible since in effect alcohol was robbing me of time I could be spending with my wife and children. I would still try to take them to the park but I would feel sick and hungover. I also hated the feeling of shame and disappointment I had with myself. I would only drink wine which I would buy at the grocery store. I…

Wellness

Why you Should Get a Colonoscopy

I am 44 and I’ve already had 3 colonoscopies. I’ve had the test done every 5 years since I was in my early 30’s. My dad died from stage iv colon cancer that spread to his liver and lungs. After watching him die from this awful disease over the course of 4.5 years I wanted to give myself the best chance I could to avoid this same fate. Don’t get me wrong the prep is unpleasant and the test can feel a bit embarrassing but trust me it is way better than the alternative (death). Colonoscopy Prep The prep is no fun. The day before your procedure you will be on a liquid diet. Here is a list of some of the stuff you can “eat” Chicken, beef, and vegetable broth. But no noodles or anything solid. Just the liquid. Jello – but make sure you avoid red or blue.…

Anxiety

Worried About Getting Your Physical Exam? Go Anyway!

For as long as I can remember I have dreaded going to the doctor. I’m not sure when it started but if I had to guess it has to do with the fact that my Mom was sick most of my childhood. She had Multiple Sclerosis and I watched it destroy her body over the course of almost three decades. Sometimes it felt like she lived at the doctor’s office and the sad thing was they could do very little to improve her quality of life. My fear of going to the doctor is so bad that when I get my blood pressure taken it usually skyrockets into the high blood pressure zone. I eventually was diagnosed with “white-coat hypertension” after being monitored for weeks and taking my blood pressure at home daily. White coat sucks because the fear seems to feed on itself. Every time I felt the blood…

Anxiety

Bunion Surgery Recovery – Appreciating the Little Things!

Finally! After struggling with my feet for countless years I finally decided to have surgery on my left foot to remove my growing bunion. Specifically I had a lapidus fusion, akin osteotomy, and excision of the tibial sesamoid. Ever since I can remember I have had severely flat feet but they did not cause a problem until recently. My podiatrist warned me a few years ago when I went to get fitted for orthotics that my bunion was growing and that I would most likely need surgery. I assumed this would be several years into the future. Boy was I wrong! Earlier this year while running a race (something that I immediately recognized as a mistake) my left big toe hurt immensely after I crossed the finish line. The pain was so bad that I went to urgent care. They took xrays and said they could not see any fractures.…

Anxiety

What Makes Us Happy?

This is a fantastic TED Talk that I recently listened to that featured a 75 year study on adult development and what makes for a fulfilling, long and happy life. Surprise…it’s not fame and fortune. I enjoyed it quite a bit so thought I would share it here. It comes down to good relationships are the key to happiness and health. Relationships keep us from being lonely which has been proven to be a killer. They also help protect our body and brain. https://youtu.be/8KkKuTCFvzI