4dad
05-12-2005, 11:29 PM
Hi,
I'm facing the decision to go for a colonoscopy at age 37. My father has stage III colon cancer. I just had a CT scan with contrast which shows only constipation. My doctor wants me to go for the colonoscopy but I keep hearing because of my family history. I would like to wait until 40 and I'm going to ask him if he is only recommending this because of my history. In other words, is the constipation (which is causing me pain) a reason to do a colonoscopy?
Thanks for any advice. I'm also very scared of getting this test. Lastly, I worry about everything and I'm having hormonal issues (perimenopause). I'm wondering if the constipation is from that and nothing else. Also stress and seeing my father so ill.
Thanks for any advice you can give.
I'm facing the decision to go for a colonoscopy at age 37. My father has stage III colon cancer. I just had a CT scan with contrast which shows only constipation. My doctor wants me to go for the colonoscopy but I keep hearing because of my family history. I would like to wait until 40 and I'm going to ask him if he is only recommending this because of my history. In other words, is the constipation (which is causing me pain) a reason to do a colonoscopy?
Thanks for any advice. I'm also very scared of getting this test. Lastly, I worry about everything and I'm having hormonal issues (perimenopause). I'm wondering if the constipation is from that and nothing else. Also stress and seeing my father so ill.
Thanks for any advice you can give.
Sponsor
CDauthier
05-12-2005, 11:56 PM
4dad,
With your painful constipation....but more so your family history, a colonoscopy is certainly a good idea.... I had my first (I'm 52) and almost cancelled it the night before when a commercial came on late night tv advising people to have them as colon cancer is the most preventable cancer there is....with proper testing early.
Don't be afraid of the colonoscopy itself....the drugs are great during and you sleep like a baby the night after the colonoscopy. The clean out is a drag...but I found the Fleet Phso Soda prep is very mild compared to the gallon of awful crud you drink with the other prep. With the fleet, you take 1.5 ounces in the am and then again in the pm....drink clear liquids that day....but you have to stay close to the restroom. Many people can't take that extra day off from work and thus start drinking the gallon of crud early in the evening prior to the colonoscopy.
Again, go ahead and have it done....why wait another 3 years dreading the proceedure...promise you'll find it's no big deal....I can't wait for my next one....6 years and counting....like I said, the drugs are terrific! :)
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your Dad.
Cathy
With your painful constipation....but more so your family history, a colonoscopy is certainly a good idea.... I had my first (I'm 52) and almost cancelled it the night before when a commercial came on late night tv advising people to have them as colon cancer is the most preventable cancer there is....with proper testing early.
Don't be afraid of the colonoscopy itself....the drugs are great during and you sleep like a baby the night after the colonoscopy. The clean out is a drag...but I found the Fleet Phso Soda prep is very mild compared to the gallon of awful crud you drink with the other prep. With the fleet, you take 1.5 ounces in the am and then again in the pm....drink clear liquids that day....but you have to stay close to the restroom. Many people can't take that extra day off from work and thus start drinking the gallon of crud early in the evening prior to the colonoscopy.
Again, go ahead and have it done....why wait another 3 years dreading the proceedure...promise you'll find it's no big deal....I can't wait for my next one....6 years and counting....like I said, the drugs are terrific! :)
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your Dad.
Cathy
quincy
05-13-2005, 02:09 AM
OMG!!!! the drugs --WooHoo...and you get to see it all on the monitor...what's not to like?? :confused:
The only thing with your thinking is that if at age 40 there's hyperplasia (active cell changes towards cancer) it's too late to say I should have :nono:
You have it in your family. You're in the top risk category now. I guess that's when we don't want to be at the top of the list, but you now have the info that should have you open (but dreading, which is normal) to the proposal :bouncing:
One thing....you need a baseline...a starting place. If you're all clear, then that's good :D
Don't wait. Besides, the clean-out is really the worst part. I've already had 6 because of ulcerative colitis. I was diagnosed over 16 years ago, and the risk of cancer increases the longer I have it -- I'm still at every 3 years for the c-scope. I don't like the the prep (will only use the CoLyte or GoLytely and ilk), but the rest is really no biggie :cool:
You'll have a choice of whether to be put out or what's called twilight sleep (slightly stoned I believe is a good way to put it). You have a good sleep afterward, empty yourself of most of the gas then go out for a nice breakfast. Spend the rest of the day in a most mellow mood :yawn:
Why wait for 40 when you can do it now.... :rolleyes:
Keep us posted.
We promise -- we have no financial investment in the scopes or meds :jester:
quincy :wave:
The only thing with your thinking is that if at age 40 there's hyperplasia (active cell changes towards cancer) it's too late to say I should have :nono:
You have it in your family. You're in the top risk category now. I guess that's when we don't want to be at the top of the list, but you now have the info that should have you open (but dreading, which is normal) to the proposal :bouncing:
One thing....you need a baseline...a starting place. If you're all clear, then that's good :D
Don't wait. Besides, the clean-out is really the worst part. I've already had 6 because of ulcerative colitis. I was diagnosed over 16 years ago, and the risk of cancer increases the longer I have it -- I'm still at every 3 years for the c-scope. I don't like the the prep (will only use the CoLyte or GoLytely and ilk), but the rest is really no biggie :cool:
You'll have a choice of whether to be put out or what's called twilight sleep (slightly stoned I believe is a good way to put it). You have a good sleep afterward, empty yourself of most of the gas then go out for a nice breakfast. Spend the rest of the day in a most mellow mood :yawn:
Why wait for 40 when you can do it now.... :rolleyes:
Keep us posted.
We promise -- we have no financial investment in the scopes or meds :jester:
quincy :wave:
chigs489
05-13-2005, 11:12 AM
If you are only having constipation, I really don't see a need for the scope. Have you tried upping your insoluble fiber? (Metamucil), drinking coffee (makes you go), etc.
Have you modified your diet to include lots of beans and veggies? veggie burgers?
If you have tried all these things and still have chronic consitpation, I would go ahead with the scope. I just had mine a couple days ago and it was a breeze. They didn't put me completely under, just gave me a mild sedative like valium, and it seemed like it only took 10 minutes. The clean out wasn't fun, but I felt great the next day -nice clean GI tract!
Im 35, but I had other issues. 2 fissures last year that required surgery, tenesmus, excessive gas, and occassional diarrhea. Fortunately, everything is clear -no IBD or cancer, polyps, etc. The scope was the best decision I ever made.
Have you modified your diet to include lots of beans and veggies? veggie burgers?
If you have tried all these things and still have chronic consitpation, I would go ahead with the scope. I just had mine a couple days ago and it was a breeze. They didn't put me completely under, just gave me a mild sedative like valium, and it seemed like it only took 10 minutes. The clean out wasn't fun, but I felt great the next day -nice clean GI tract!
Im 35, but I had other issues. 2 fissures last year that required surgery, tenesmus, excessive gas, and occassional diarrhea. Fortunately, everything is clear -no IBD or cancer, polyps, etc. The scope was the best decision I ever made.
4dad
05-13-2005, 12:21 PM
Thank you everyone! I received the report back and in regards to the colon, this is what it said:
Large amount of stool present iwthin the colon, consistent with the patient's history of constpiation.
Small amount of free fluid within the cul-de-sac which is most liley physiologic and simply an incidental finding (don't know what this means really)
Otherwise negative CT of the pelvis
I have a cyst on my right ovary and one on my left kidney of which the nurse never told me about. I was suprirsed to see it when I obtained the report.
Also, is mucous normal? I never used to that (as a younger adult) but have noticed it much more in the last 2 years or so.
Okay, based on this report would it be horrible to wait a bit and try more simple things first?
Thank you!!!
Large amount of stool present iwthin the colon, consistent with the patient's history of constpiation.
Small amount of free fluid within the cul-de-sac which is most liley physiologic and simply an incidental finding (don't know what this means really)
Otherwise negative CT of the pelvis
I have a cyst on my right ovary and one on my left kidney of which the nurse never told me about. I was suprirsed to see it when I obtained the report.
Also, is mucous normal? I never used to that (as a younger adult) but have noticed it much more in the last 2 years or so.
Okay, based on this report would it be horrible to wait a bit and try more simple things first?
Thank you!!!
4dad
05-13-2005, 12:24 PM
Oh, and I'm glad everyone who posted is OK with their results.
I'm going on vacation first week of June. Wouldn't want anything bad to happen either before it. I'm also tentatively scheduled to have the test in the afternoon, 1pm. I know I'll be very hungry but I figure that is better than getting up at say 3 or 4 am to take the rest of that stuff.
I'm going on vacation first week of June. Wouldn't want anything bad to happen either before it. I'm also tentatively scheduled to have the test in the afternoon, 1pm. I know I'll be very hungry but I figure that is better than getting up at say 3 or 4 am to take the rest of that stuff.
chigs489
05-13-2005, 01:18 PM
I had mucus recently, and I chalked it up to eating a bunch of bacon that morning. Since my colonoscopy is clear, it's obviosuly nothing serious.
I think you are going to be fine, but I would modify the diet to rid yourself of the constipation. You can get the cysts removed pretty easily, but that is up to your doctor's descretion.
I think you are going to be fine, but I would modify the diet to rid yourself of the constipation. You can get the cysts removed pretty easily, but that is up to your doctor's descretion.
quincy
05-13-2005, 03:11 PM
Hi 4dad....that's great to hear you'll go ahead and get the colonoscopy done. You won't regret it because I think that will take care of some of the stress.
The mucous would more than likely be caused from the constipation and the severe stress you're having. I can relate to your emotional state of mind regarding your dad -- my mom had lung cancer. We were quite a dysfunctional family tho which didn't help.
Perimenopause and hormonal imbalances can affect the bowel. I agree with chiggins....it will help you your constipation if you change your diet. Adding salads, fruit, vegetables, complex carbs will help bulk up the stool and get rid of the mucous.
Your stress level will be high for a long while because of your now life situation. You can only do so much to care for yourself because emotions usually take over -- it's like doing good stuff for oneself is so much work. Adding vitamins such as a multi, b complex and vitamin C will at least help your body from being depleted because of the stress and possibly irratic eating.
Please take care. Let us know how the scope test went.
quincy
The mucous would more than likely be caused from the constipation and the severe stress you're having. I can relate to your emotional state of mind regarding your dad -- my mom had lung cancer. We were quite a dysfunctional family tho which didn't help.
Perimenopause and hormonal imbalances can affect the bowel. I agree with chiggins....it will help you your constipation if you change your diet. Adding salads, fruit, vegetables, complex carbs will help bulk up the stool and get rid of the mucous.
Your stress level will be high for a long while because of your now life situation. You can only do so much to care for yourself because emotions usually take over -- it's like doing good stuff for oneself is so much work. Adding vitamins such as a multi, b complex and vitamin C will at least help your body from being depleted because of the stress and possibly irratic eating.
Please take care. Let us know how the scope test went.
quincy
4dad
05-13-2005, 11:08 PM
I had to address each one of you..thanks again.
Cathy - thanks. I am scared of the procedure. Not so much the clean out but the actual thought of a scope going up there really freaks me out. And of course I worry they might make a mistake and puncture it! But your words were nice and me more at ease.
Chiggins1066 - thanks for all your help. I do eat fiber on a regular basis. My Mom suggested I'm bulking up too much..could that be? I really do go everyday but many times I feel like it hasn't all come out. But the stool itself is soft...I just have this full feeling like I haven't completley finished. I don't think they can do much for a kidney cyst unless it becomes infected? Ovarian cysts I get all of the time and they go away on their own.
Qunicy - I'm scheduled but have in the back of my mind to cancel it! I don't think I want to know what they are doing and will probably opt for the twilight sleep. Had that before for a lumpectomy.
Cathy - thanks. I am scared of the procedure. Not so much the clean out but the actual thought of a scope going up there really freaks me out. And of course I worry they might make a mistake and puncture it! But your words were nice and me more at ease.
Chiggins1066 - thanks for all your help. I do eat fiber on a regular basis. My Mom suggested I'm bulking up too much..could that be? I really do go everyday but many times I feel like it hasn't all come out. But the stool itself is soft...I just have this full feeling like I haven't completley finished. I don't think they can do much for a kidney cyst unless it becomes infected? Ovarian cysts I get all of the time and they go away on their own.
Qunicy - I'm scheduled but have in the back of my mind to cancel it! I don't think I want to know what they are doing and will probably opt for the twilight sleep. Had that before for a lumpectomy.
wmkcolors
05-16-2005, 02:51 AM
I had similar symptoms as yours. My grandfather had colon cancer. I was in my early 30s. I had a colonoscopy and found out I had stage 1 colon cancer. While being treated, I met a woman with colon cancer, who was in her 20s. My doctor told me all my siblings should be tested. One of my younger brothers found out he had precancerous polyps. Everyone was under 40. Please do not wait to have the test. A CT scan DOES NOT detect the early stages of colon cancer.
4dad
05-16-2005, 10:21 AM
Thanks wmkcolors. I did go normal this morning. I don't have any abnormal size stools, blood, etc. I think I may be eating too much fiber. I hear you on not waiting but I'm honestly scared to get one. My father is a smoker. Is colon cancer always hereditary? There is no other history of it beyond my father and his immediate family. How do they treat early stage cancer? Would that just be the early cancer cells or did you have a small tumor? Thanks.
wmkcolors
05-16-2005, 10:36 AM
There aren't always signs of colon cancer. Colorectal cancer stems from polyp formation, on the intestinal and rectal wall, which can be benign or become cancerous, similar to growths on the skin. For the most part, my younger brother had no symptoms, when they found his precancerous polyps. They only had to remove them. At stage one, I had a polyp that hadn't invaded the intestinal wall but was cancerous. I had internal and external radiation, but no chemo, thank God. Still, it was a traumatic experience and put me into menopause early. Colon cancer isn't necessarily genetic, but, like other cancers, if other relatives, especially someone close, like your father, has had the cancer, then, it's best to be tested early. I have now had a colonoscopy 5 times and I can honestly say the prep is the hardest part. My sister had so much anxiety over getting the test and felt the same way afterwards. Schedule it for early in the morning, if possible. It's easier that way. Under the Colon cancer part of the board, there are many people with anxiety like yours. I don't want others to go through what I went through. I didn't even know young people were diagnosed with this cancer, at the time. The doctors have advised you correctly. All your siblings should be tested, irregardless of their age. Colon cancer grows rather slowly and is very treatable. Like I said, there aren't always obvious symptoms, like blood, in the stools. Have this test, if only to alleviate your anxiety.
AlienB
05-18-2005, 02:36 PM
Hey 4Dad,
The GI wanted me to have one done for constipation. But only after I complained, my stool samples and blood work looked great.
I'm holding now trying to get the constipation/hemroids under control.
Sounds like the prep didn't clean the old stuff out, I thought that was part of it???
Did they tell you anything to do for the constipation??
The GI wanted me to have one done for constipation. But only after I complained, my stool samples and blood work looked great.
I'm holding now trying to get the constipation/hemroids under control.
Sounds like the prep didn't clean the old stuff out, I thought that was part of it???
Did they tell you anything to do for the constipation??
4dad
05-18-2005, 07:20 PM
Hi AlienB,
The doctor didn't even offer any advice about the constipation. He just wants to do the colonoscopy and I guess then he'll talk to me about what to do. Do you have a family history of colon cancer? My grandmother was just diagnosed with diverticulitus. She is 92! She had to have 12' of her colon removed. I'm so scared of getting anything that now I want the colonoscopy. Good luck with your troubles. How long have you had the constipation trouble? Mine just started a few months ago.
The doctor didn't even offer any advice about the constipation. He just wants to do the colonoscopy and I guess then he'll talk to me about what to do. Do you have a family history of colon cancer? My grandmother was just diagnosed with diverticulitus. She is 92! She had to have 12' of her colon removed. I'm so scared of getting anything that now I want the colonoscopy. Good luck with your troubles. How long have you had the constipation trouble? Mine just started a few months ago.
CDauthier
05-19-2005, 11:37 PM
4Dad,
Just read in another post that you are going to have your colonoscopy tomorrow. Good for you!!!!! Let us know what you find out, k?
Take care,
Cathy
Just read in another post that you are going to have your colonoscopy tomorrow. Good for you!!!!! Let us know what you find out, k?
Take care,
Cathy
4dad
05-20-2005, 09:59 PM
Hi Cathy,
Thank you for checking up on me. I did have the colonoscopy and thank God everything is fine. I have some internal hemorrhoids. As far as the procedure, I had a really hard time with the prep. I thought I might dehydrate and I was very, very thirsty for hours. I'm still having diarreah and cramping because of the laxatives. The procedure itself was very easy just like everyone says.
Thank you to all for helping with me and answering my questions.
It was recommended I take fiber but I don't know which one to get. I have a real hard time if stool is big and bulky which is what I think the insoluble fiber does(??). Those my doctor has recommended are: Citrucel or Metamucil, Fibercon/cirtrucel tables or GNC Wheat Bran or Oat Bran tablets. I have no idea which one will be best for soft, non bulky stools. If anyone could recommend which one of these would do that for me that would be great.
The doctor also told my husband that it is very common for people who have close family sick with cancer to develop muscle tightening and IBS symptoms. becasue of the fear He told my husband to continually reassure me that I'm OK. The bottom line is I worry! Overall, I'm glad I had the colonoscopy done.
You are all great. These boards have been so helpful.
Thanks.
Lori
Thank you for checking up on me. I did have the colonoscopy and thank God everything is fine. I have some internal hemorrhoids. As far as the procedure, I had a really hard time with the prep. I thought I might dehydrate and I was very, very thirsty for hours. I'm still having diarreah and cramping because of the laxatives. The procedure itself was very easy just like everyone says.
Thank you to all for helping with me and answering my questions.
It was recommended I take fiber but I don't know which one to get. I have a real hard time if stool is big and bulky which is what I think the insoluble fiber does(??). Those my doctor has recommended are: Citrucel or Metamucil, Fibercon/cirtrucel tables or GNC Wheat Bran or Oat Bran tablets. I have no idea which one will be best for soft, non bulky stools. If anyone could recommend which one of these would do that for me that would be great.
The doctor also told my husband that it is very common for people who have close family sick with cancer to develop muscle tightening and IBS symptoms. becasue of the fear He told my husband to continually reassure me that I'm OK. The bottom line is I worry! Overall, I'm glad I had the colonoscopy done.
You are all great. These boards have been so helpful.
Thanks.
Lori
CDauthier
05-20-2005, 10:16 PM
Lori,
That's fantastic news...I know it's a big relief! What doc said about close family member with cancer causing muscle tightening and IBS symptoms is absolutely correct! Stress plays havoc on your body, especially your bowels.
Harry seems to be the expert on fiber and hopefully he'll see your post and give you his thoughts... One of husband's docs recommended Citrucel at the time his bowels was almost completely blocked with a mass from repeated diverticulitis infections. He was on it for 6 weeks prior to his resection. Even with the blockage, it was the best bm's he had in years! Soft and easy to pass.
Sorry to hear you had problems with the prep. Which one did you use...please don't tell me it was the Fleet Phso Soda I recommended to you earlier...I'll feel horrible! You mentioned laxatives...I'm thinking you were given something like dulcolax in addition to the prep?
Hopefully, you'll sleep like a baby tonight as I did after my colonoscopy. :)
Again, that's such good news! :bouncing:
Cathy
That's fantastic news...I know it's a big relief! What doc said about close family member with cancer causing muscle tightening and IBS symptoms is absolutely correct! Stress plays havoc on your body, especially your bowels.
Harry seems to be the expert on fiber and hopefully he'll see your post and give you his thoughts... One of husband's docs recommended Citrucel at the time his bowels was almost completely blocked with a mass from repeated diverticulitis infections. He was on it for 6 weeks prior to his resection. Even with the blockage, it was the best bm's he had in years! Soft and easy to pass.
Sorry to hear you had problems with the prep. Which one did you use...please don't tell me it was the Fleet Phso Soda I recommended to you earlier...I'll feel horrible! You mentioned laxatives...I'm thinking you were given something like dulcolax in addition to the prep?
Hopefully, you'll sleep like a baby tonight as I did after my colonoscopy. :)
Again, that's such good news! :bouncing:
Cathy
4dad
05-21-2005, 10:09 AM
Hi Cathy,
I was actually leaning toward the Fibercon or Citriucel tablets. So thank you!
I did have the Fleets but don't feel bad! It wasn't the Fleets per say. I know others have had to drink a gallon of stuff so I was thankful this was a small amount to drink. I had to start at 6pm Thursday and it didn't stop for me. I was going pretty much all night. Not constantly but every hour or so after 9. The cramping I had was real bad and I didn't expect "water" to come pouring out (sorry for gross details). To me it was than typical diarrhea. They may as well tell you that you'll go water! The hardest for me was the cramping and the lack of water after midnight. My test wasn't until 1:30pm so it was very hard to wait for a drink. I drank as much as I could the night before and I think that saved me but it was still hard. That is my only complaint and being so hungry because I was on liquids the day before. By the 2nd dose of Fleets I was nauseus and had a hard time drinking it. I still think (based on what others say) the Fleets is the better prep. There just is no easy way to clean out I guess.
I had the Bisacodyl tablets to take with my last dose of Fleets. I was so scared to take the 2nd dose of Fleets AND the tablets because I had and still was going to the bathroom. I almost called the doctor and expressed concern of dehydration. But I made it. And I didnt' sleep well for 3 nights before the test. I was that anxious about the test!
Thank you so much for your help and advice. Wow on what your husband has gone through! I hope he (and you) are doing well now.
Lori
I was actually leaning toward the Fibercon or Citriucel tablets. So thank you!
I did have the Fleets but don't feel bad! It wasn't the Fleets per say. I know others have had to drink a gallon of stuff so I was thankful this was a small amount to drink. I had to start at 6pm Thursday and it didn't stop for me. I was going pretty much all night. Not constantly but every hour or so after 9. The cramping I had was real bad and I didn't expect "water" to come pouring out (sorry for gross details). To me it was than typical diarrhea. They may as well tell you that you'll go water! The hardest for me was the cramping and the lack of water after midnight. My test wasn't until 1:30pm so it was very hard to wait for a drink. I drank as much as I could the night before and I think that saved me but it was still hard. That is my only complaint and being so hungry because I was on liquids the day before. By the 2nd dose of Fleets I was nauseus and had a hard time drinking it. I still think (based on what others say) the Fleets is the better prep. There just is no easy way to clean out I guess.
I had the Bisacodyl tablets to take with my last dose of Fleets. I was so scared to take the 2nd dose of Fleets AND the tablets because I had and still was going to the bathroom. I almost called the doctor and expressed concern of dehydration. But I made it. And I didnt' sleep well for 3 nights before the test. I was that anxious about the test!
Thank you so much for your help and advice. Wow on what your husband has gone through! I hope he (and you) are doing well now.
Lori
CDauthier
05-21-2005, 11:49 AM
Lori,
The next time you have a prep, ask your doc to skip the bisacodyl tablets....the Fleet is enough in itself to have an adequate clean out. Our doc's (colon-rectal surgeon) directions are a clear liquid diet the day of the clean out (regular diet prior to day of clean out) and take 1.5 ounces at 6:00 AM and again 6:00 PM. That's enough to clean out a horse without the tablet laxatives! :) I was slightly nauseated by my second dose but after seeing hubby take the gallon of crud in a couple of prior clean outs before we found our colon-rectal specialist, I think I psyched(sp?) myself that I was soooo much better off. Bless your heart....having to wait to 1:30 pm for the colonoscopy was no picnic, I'm sure...
Husband is going great now...had his resection in November of 2003 then emergency surgery for perforation at the resection site...doc performed colostomy in the emergency surgery and it was reversed in April of this year. He lost 1/2 of his rectum at the reversal because original doc (general surgeon) screwed up his emergency surgery....stapled it closed half way and it grew together.....but all is well now...he calls the whole ordeal his 55 year tune-up! :) I'm having my tonsils out on June 2....my 53 year tune-up....time to get a little pampering for me! :) No matter what you go through, it can always be worse!
Am glad you're following doc's advice about the fiber....you'll be amazed at your bm's!
Take care and let us know how your Dad is doing!
Cathy
The next time you have a prep, ask your doc to skip the bisacodyl tablets....the Fleet is enough in itself to have an adequate clean out. Our doc's (colon-rectal surgeon) directions are a clear liquid diet the day of the clean out (regular diet prior to day of clean out) and take 1.5 ounces at 6:00 AM and again 6:00 PM. That's enough to clean out a horse without the tablet laxatives! :) I was slightly nauseated by my second dose but after seeing hubby take the gallon of crud in a couple of prior clean outs before we found our colon-rectal specialist, I think I psyched(sp?) myself that I was soooo much better off. Bless your heart....having to wait to 1:30 pm for the colonoscopy was no picnic, I'm sure...
Husband is going great now...had his resection in November of 2003 then emergency surgery for perforation at the resection site...doc performed colostomy in the emergency surgery and it was reversed in April of this year. He lost 1/2 of his rectum at the reversal because original doc (general surgeon) screwed up his emergency surgery....stapled it closed half way and it grew together.....but all is well now...he calls the whole ordeal his 55 year tune-up! :) I'm having my tonsils out on June 2....my 53 year tune-up....time to get a little pampering for me! :) No matter what you go through, it can always be worse!
Am glad you're following doc's advice about the fiber....you'll be amazed at your bm's!
Take care and let us know how your Dad is doing!
Cathy
quincy
05-21-2005, 07:41 PM
Hi Lori,
Good to hear your doc saw that everything was fine. When do you go back for your biopsy results....or will the doc call you?
As far as the fibre.....trying different kinds seems to be the only way to see what feels best without side effects (gas, cramping).
Make sure you increase water intake, or you could end up constipated because of the extra fibre sucking all the water from the gut.
Glad to hear the scope itself was fine.
Take care,
quincy
Good to hear your doc saw that everything was fine. When do you go back for your biopsy results....or will the doc call you?
As far as the fibre.....trying different kinds seems to be the only way to see what feels best without side effects (gas, cramping).
Make sure you increase water intake, or you could end up constipated because of the extra fibre sucking all the water from the gut.
Glad to hear the scope itself was fine.
Take care,
quincy
4dad
05-21-2005, 10:14 PM
Hi Cathy,
So true that things can always be worse. Your poor husband went through some tough times.
I will pray for you in that all goes well with your tonsil operation.
Thanks for the tips on the tablets. I think you are right. I would have cleaned out enough with the Fleets. But maybe they just want to be sure you are completely cleaned out to get a good look.
I will let you know about my Dad. Right now he isn't doing very well. We almost lost him a few weeks ago but a miracle happened and he came off the respirator. Now he is in pain all of the time. I feel so bad for him. He is weak and I always ask God to please, please either take away the pain or take him home. I can't stand to see him this way.
Well enough sad stuff.
Lori
So true that things can always be worse. Your poor husband went through some tough times.
I will pray for you in that all goes well with your tonsil operation.
Thanks for the tips on the tablets. I think you are right. I would have cleaned out enough with the Fleets. But maybe they just want to be sure you are completely cleaned out to get a good look.
I will let you know about my Dad. Right now he isn't doing very well. We almost lost him a few weeks ago but a miracle happened and he came off the respirator. Now he is in pain all of the time. I feel so bad for him. He is weak and I always ask God to please, please either take away the pain or take him home. I can't stand to see him this way.
Well enough sad stuff.
Lori
4dad
05-21-2005, 10:17 PM
Hi Qunicy,
I will increase my water intake. Is it 6-8 glasses or more with the fiber?
The doctor did not do any biopsies. He told my husband there was no need to because there was nothing to biopsy. I have to go for another in 5 years.
How long does it normally take before you have a BM after this test? I didn't have one all day today. I have to watch for blood apparently although the doctor said he did not perforate my bowel.
Thank you for all the advice!!!
Lori
I will increase my water intake. Is it 6-8 glasses or more with the fiber?
The doctor did not do any biopsies. He told my husband there was no need to because there was nothing to biopsy. I have to go for another in 5 years.
How long does it normally take before you have a BM after this test? I didn't have one all day today. I have to watch for blood apparently although the doctor said he did not perforate my bowel.
Thank you for all the advice!!!
Lori
CDauthier
05-22-2005, 02:43 AM
4dad,
So sorry to hear about your Dad. With all of the wonderful pain meds there are today he certainly shouldn't have to live in pain. I have heard wonderful things about Hospice. Don't know if it's available where your Dad is or if it's even time for Hospice to be considered. Regardless, he has the right to have his pain controlled, with or without Hospice.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and your Dad.
Cathy
P.S. Next time you have your colonoscopy, just "forget" to take the pills....as long as you're expelling a clear liquid, the bowels are clean.... :)
So sorry to hear about your Dad. With all of the wonderful pain meds there are today he certainly shouldn't have to live in pain. I have heard wonderful things about Hospice. Don't know if it's available where your Dad is or if it's even time for Hospice to be considered. Regardless, he has the right to have his pain controlled, with or without Hospice.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and your Dad.
Cathy
P.S. Next time you have your colonoscopy, just "forget" to take the pills....as long as you're expelling a clear liquid, the bowels are clean.... :)
quincy
05-22-2005, 05:54 PM
Hi Lori, I'm surprised no biopsies were taken with the colonoscopy...for sure the doc said he didn't take any? If not..please make sure that they are taken throughout your bowel at the next one...precancer isn't visible.
The fibre increase -- 8 glasses of water normally...maybe you'll need more till your bowels start to work with the increase. It'll take 2 - 3 days for you to have a good bm, considering it takes 12 - 48 hours for food to get digested. Yours is a bit sluggish, so I'd lean more towards the 2 - 3 days.
Considering the severe stress you're under, the bowel will be reacting to that as well. Still keep up with the fibre -- as well as eating well including fruit and veggies and salads plus lots of protein to keep your strength -- even though you might not think it's doing anything.
When my mom was dying from lung cancer -- we were a very dysfunctional family -- my colon reacted to everything...from diarrhea to constipation (I have UC as well as IBS). It's difficult mentally to see a loved one in their dying days. I too only wanted her to not suffer and to have a painless and peaceful end. She couldn't and strongly refused the use of morphine because she became combatant (sp?)..it was more painful to see her like that. Her wish was to be at home as well -- which made dealing with it much more stressful.
I wish you and your father peace and acceptance. It's difficult not having control and witnessing life's cycle.
Take care of yourself.
quincy
The fibre increase -- 8 glasses of water normally...maybe you'll need more till your bowels start to work with the increase. It'll take 2 - 3 days for you to have a good bm, considering it takes 12 - 48 hours for food to get digested. Yours is a bit sluggish, so I'd lean more towards the 2 - 3 days.
Considering the severe stress you're under, the bowel will be reacting to that as well. Still keep up with the fibre -- as well as eating well including fruit and veggies and salads plus lots of protein to keep your strength -- even though you might not think it's doing anything.
When my mom was dying from lung cancer -- we were a very dysfunctional family -- my colon reacted to everything...from diarrhea to constipation (I have UC as well as IBS). It's difficult mentally to see a loved one in their dying days. I too only wanted her to not suffer and to have a painless and peaceful end. She couldn't and strongly refused the use of morphine because she became combatant (sp?)..it was more painful to see her like that. Her wish was to be at home as well -- which made dealing with it much more stressful.
I wish you and your father peace and acceptance. It's difficult not having control and witnessing life's cycle.
Take care of yourself.
quincy
4dad
05-22-2005, 09:49 PM
Hi Cathy and Quincy,
Thanks for your kind words. It is hard to face what is out of our control. My father is on pain medications but apparently it isn't enough. I heard hospice is good for help with easing or taking away the pain with Morhpine but I don't think he ready for that yet as they are talking about resuming chemotherapy in 3 weeks. I honestly don't know if his body will be able to take it but we are all hoping for a miracle. He is on TPN because he isn't eating much. He is too scared to eat because of fear of blockage. His cancer is very aggressive, was low near the rectum and sitting in a spot that rests on a nerve. So they can't completely remove it with surgery. We discovered that it spread to his small intestine and recently he had a life saving, emergency surgery to remove dead cancer in the small intestine. Little did they know that this was the cause of the blockages. He had 3 since his colostomy. I still can't believe that with all the scans they did noone ever saw the dead bowel. Anyway, after that surgery he was in intensive care and on a respirator. They told us he wouldn't make it but he did and is now home. That was about 3 weeks ago. The pain is still there and he fears another blockage and fights constipation with all kinds of things such as stool softener and milk of magnesia. Any little bit of constipation causes him great pain. And he has a colostomy but still has a rectum which excretes mucous almost every hour. It really miserable and since his diagnosis in 2002 it just seems things keep getting worse instead of better. Who knows though maybe his cancer will respond to the chemo. He is going to be on Avastin. They tried that right before the blockage but of course had to stop. Sorry for such details. I guess I had to tell the story to those who understand. I know you might not be surprised about this but he still smokes! He always has been a smoker and his illness has not stopped that. Even now, as weak and sick as he is, he is puffing away.
Quincy, I don't know about the biopsy. Maybe the doctor did but just didn't say because he is sure my bowels are fine. But next time I will be sure to ask about it.
You all are so great. Thanks so much.
Lori
Thanks for your kind words. It is hard to face what is out of our control. My father is on pain medications but apparently it isn't enough. I heard hospice is good for help with easing or taking away the pain with Morhpine but I don't think he ready for that yet as they are talking about resuming chemotherapy in 3 weeks. I honestly don't know if his body will be able to take it but we are all hoping for a miracle. He is on TPN because he isn't eating much. He is too scared to eat because of fear of blockage. His cancer is very aggressive, was low near the rectum and sitting in a spot that rests on a nerve. So they can't completely remove it with surgery. We discovered that it spread to his small intestine and recently he had a life saving, emergency surgery to remove dead cancer in the small intestine. Little did they know that this was the cause of the blockages. He had 3 since his colostomy. I still can't believe that with all the scans they did noone ever saw the dead bowel. Anyway, after that surgery he was in intensive care and on a respirator. They told us he wouldn't make it but he did and is now home. That was about 3 weeks ago. The pain is still there and he fears another blockage and fights constipation with all kinds of things such as stool softener and milk of magnesia. Any little bit of constipation causes him great pain. And he has a colostomy but still has a rectum which excretes mucous almost every hour. It really miserable and since his diagnosis in 2002 it just seems things keep getting worse instead of better. Who knows though maybe his cancer will respond to the chemo. He is going to be on Avastin. They tried that right before the blockage but of course had to stop. Sorry for such details. I guess I had to tell the story to those who understand. I know you might not be surprised about this but he still smokes! He always has been a smoker and his illness has not stopped that. Even now, as weak and sick as he is, he is puffing away.
Quincy, I don't know about the biopsy. Maybe the doctor did but just didn't say because he is sure my bowels are fine. But next time I will be sure to ask about it.
You all are so great. Thanks so much.
Lori