I have colonoscopies on a regular basis... thanks of course to colon cancer. If there is anything I can say to just get people to get a colonoscopy then this is it. If I had just gotten it done as part of my preventative measure, then I would not have gone through a big surgery, They would have just taken some polyps and I would have kept half of my colon. The prep is worse then the procedure... so go get it done, you will wonder what all the fuss was about...
Having a colonoscopy not that bad. The prep is annoying but the test itself is ok. Most doctors use a sedative called propofol that will knock you out but not give you a total-anesthesia type hangover. Colonoscopy will permit your doctor to visualize your entire colon and determine what is causing your symptoms. It is not routine for a person your age would not have been ordered if your symptoms did not warrant it. Good luck and try not to worry too much.
jd