Bone up on your health

As we reach middle age, we suddenly have to go through all these preventive tests/procedures that we never experienced before. This is especially true if you’re a woman with a family history of health issues.

When I searched for my birth parents, learning my health history was a top priority. Though I’m glad to have it now for both my sons and me, it complicated my life a bit. My birth father’s history is excellent; my birth mother’s is the exact opposite.

So instead of having a colonoscopy every 10 years as recommended for those age 45 and over, I get to have one every five years. It used to be every three to four years, so I guess I should be grateful. But many readers know this is not a fun experience, although you do get a heck of a good nap in afterwards.

In addition to my annual mammogram, which I had to start in my 30s because I didn’t have my family health history at the time, I must have a breast MRI every two to three years. My last MRI was traumatizing and left me in tears for days afterward. It doesn’t help that I’m claustrophobic and Valium does zilch for me for the procedure.

When I saw my primary care physician, Dr. H, for my annual physical last March, I asked her if she thought it was time for me to get a bone density scan. “Sure!” she replied. “I think that would be an excellent idea.”

As I walked out, I wondered why I had opened my big mouth. I didn’t know what a bone density scan involved, and I was nervous to find out after my MRI, which was still fresh in my memory.

As the day approached for my scan, I did a quick search and saw that it wouldn’t involve injections nor take much time. That’s all I knew as I drove to Riverview Health in Westfield last Wednesday. My appointment was at 8:45 and I was told to arrive at 8:30.

By 8:35, I was in the Bone and Breast Health suite. By 8:37, I was in the exam room with my cheerful technician, Abby. (Yay, another nice Abby in my life!)

I looked around wondering where my hospital gown was located. Abby explained to me that, no, all I needed to do was hang up my jacket and purse and lie down on my back on the comfy table. With a pillow. A pillow!

I chatted with Abby and at one point said, “Wait, are you scanning now?” She laughed and said, “Yep!” There was no noise, pain, squeezing things in a vice-like grip, weird food prep and multiple bathroom trips, or tears. Nothing. It felt like I was relaxing at the spa chatting with a new friend. I was in the parking lot by 8:46.

In three hours, I had my results thanks to My Chart, which were normal. With my mother having battled bone health issues, I was relieved.

So, middle-aged readers, I encourage you to get your preventive tests done. They’re so important for continued good health … and be sure to enjoy your “spa time” during the bone density scan!

Amy Shankland is a writer and fundraising professional living in Noblesville with her husband John, two sons, two dogs, and a cat. You can reach her via email at amys@greenavenue.info.