Colonoscopy - Digestive Disorders Message Board

gillian30 · 12-15-2003, 11:02 AM

I guess I'm here seeking courage today, to go through with the colonoscopy I have scheduled for Jan.12. When I asked my doctor about it today, she got a sour look on her face and rattled off some pretty major negatives in regards to the procedure. Perforated colon, trouble with sedation, to name a couple. Then she said ,"It's a very unpleasant procedure." No one seems able to specify why this will be such hell, though...is it painful, and if so, where? The abdomen, the rectum, the stomach...what? I just don't even know if it's worth it considering all I've been told. Is it really sooo bad?

actudan · 12-15-2003, 11:58 AM

It varies by person. True there are dangers involved such as perforation of the intestine and possible allergic reaction to the sedative. Those are rare risks but it's the doctor's or hospital's responsibility to make you aware of those risks. The procedure was a little painful for me when they blew air in my colon to expand it so the doctor could get a good look. The pain only lasted a few seconds and the procedure lasted about 10 minutes (I think). I was a little sore for a day or two and I guess it's because of my colon being expanded.

I know others that had the procedure without sedation and did fine. Others have also said that they did not have any pain after the procedure. So I guess it can vary by individual. It's a good procedure to have if you are having bowel related problems since it gives the doctor the best possible view inside your colon.

Good luck!

twokatss · 12-15-2003, 12:23 PM

The worst part of a colonoscopy is the prep. You have to drink the phosphate soda and then sit on the JOHN for at least 2 hours. Not a pleasant experience. Your rear will be very tender. However the actual procedure is nothing because they dope you up with valium drip. You probably will not remember anything. (If you coat your rear with vaseline that will help with cleaning yourself out though). I was very nervous before I had my colonoscopy but would not hesitate doing it again if you didn't have to do the prep. Hope this helps!!!!

twisten · 12-15-2003, 12:33 PM

Gillian, if you really want to know if you have crohns or celiac that is the only test that will tell you for sure.

actudan · 12-15-2003, 01:24 PM

I forgot to mention the prep work. For me, it wasn't too bad except my butt was a little sore from all the wiping. The day before my procedure, I was allowed a light breakfast, liquid lunch and started taking the fleet liquid around 4:00. Before I retired for the night, I had to take some pills and in the morning I had to use a suppository. It was suggested that I use some vaseline so all the wiping wouldn't make butt as sore.