jana66

Little history: For the past year or so, I started experiencing alot of anxiety (especially health) which led me to many doctor visits to deal with certain issues. I have had 2 pelvic and transvaginal ultrasounds, lots of blood work and a ctscan (to check for kidney stones due to complaint of left sided flank pain). All that was found was ovarian cysts on both ovaries with the largest at the time being 2 cm. Doctors were not concerned. Anyway, off and on throughout the months I have had different aches and pains in my back, flank, hips, pelvic area and abdomen. I have also become way too in tune to my bowel movements that seem to be continually changing in consistency and shape/size. It has come to the point where I actually get nervous beforehand wondering what they will look like (anxiety setting in ).
I also seem to be burping more often (could be extra air from constantly over-breathing) and lots of stomach gurgles and noises, especially early in the morning while lying in bed.
After alot of debate (due to fear) I finally went to see the doctor about all of these more recent issues. His first and strongest instinct was IBS, but since this is a diagnosis of exclusion, he wants to eliminate other possibilities. (I am glad that he is being thorough). He also thinks that I may be perimenopausal even though past hormone blood tests were normal. I actually have many symptoms of perimenopause (hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia).
Well, he is sending me for more complete blood work, a complete abdominal ultrasound and a barium enema. The latter is the one that I am worried about.
Can anyone tell me about this procedure (what to expect, advice, etc...) or share any similar symptoms and diagnosis'. By the way, I am 39, mother of 2 teenagers, no family history of cancer, my mother through meno at 44.
I would really appreciate some feedback. Thanks a bunch for reading!