I just had a colonoscopy yesterday, and was glad it turned out to be a relatively painless procedure. I do have a terrible problem with anxiety, and for some reason it seems to me that many of us with bowel problems do suffer with anxiety as well. Anyway....the doctor found and removed six polyps. It has me pretty freaked out and I thought maybe some of you here can help me through this. I know it may be irrational, but it's there nevertheless. I so afraid of the biopsy results. Can anyone help, please? This is no fun.............

I don't have a reassuring story but what did the doctor say about the looks of those polyps when he removed them. If he seemed worried in his tone of voice or very concerned then that would convey that they looked suspicious. If he was very calm and matter of fact I would conclude that they are probably benign. I am not sure this helps or not.

Polyps definitely are not always cancerous (I don't know the statistics, but my guess would be most of the time they are NOT). I had some removed two times (during a sigmoid- and a colonoscopy), and both times they were nothing.

I have noticed that connection between anxiety/emotions and the digestive track, too!

Thanks to both of you for your replies. The doctor said they looked fine, but still, you know how the mind works. In fact, my discharge instructions just say call for the results, colonoscopy in one year and no follow-up visit with the doc. I know I've read only 5% turn out to be something bad, but, well, once the idea is planted in my head it just doesn't leave. Thanks for responding. It's sure appreciated very much.

Hi Jac,

You are not alone there. At least you have gone and had the procedure done - well done! I am still trying to work up the courage. (You would think I was 8 and not 28..lol) Everyone feels anxious waiting for test results and I think that's half of my battle too - the dreaded waiting.

I would think that the Dr would mention any concerns to you at the time if he had any and would recommend coming to see him for the results.

Try not to worry, but I know exactly how you feel. My thoughts are with you.

Lisa