Yes, time for the annual mammogram and sonogram for the girls. I have to have a sonogram along with the mammogram because I have recurring cysts. Cysts are simply fluid filled pockets. They aren't pre- anything, and they are not a sign of future problems. They just are. Thing is, some cysts fill up slowly and steadily and do not get smaller. Eventually, they press against muscle causing some soreness, so they need to be aspirated (guess how that's done). It's quick and not that painful. Well, this year, no aspirations were necessary. I had a big cyst earlier in the year, but for the first time ever, it went down on its own. And I apparently have fewer cysts now than when I was younger. Finally, I got a clean bill of health. It's all good.
So this is the time when I remind any women reading this, and any men who have adult women in their households or as friends, that a regular mammogram can be a life saver. No one wants bad news, but bad news delivered early can make the difference between having a normal life expectancy or not. No one looks forward to going for a mammogram, but just do it. The relief you will feel after it's done with is worth it.
I can't get the woman I live with to go to the doctor. She'll suffer for months before she finally grudgingly goes. It's maddening.
Posted by: Dr. Monkey | July 12, 2011 at 01:15 AM
Noted. I got the letter from my doc yesterday. I'll call today for an appointment.
Posted by: Lisa H Golden | July 12, 2011 at 08:09 AM
Congratz.
Posted by: JDM | July 12, 2011 at 12:37 PM
Sorry about that, Dr. Monkey. No one likes getting the girls squeezed, but early detection saves lives. Have you tried telling her that going for the annual exam might make any future medical problem less awful (i.e., spend less time at the doctor's).
Lisa: Good. It has to be done.
JDM: Thanks. GMB
Posted by: gmb | July 12, 2011 at 08:13 PM