HSV and colonoscopy - Herpes Message Board

islandgirl · 08-13-2003, 08:10 AM

I'm scheduled for a colonoscopy in a few weeks and I'm one of those that have frequent ob vaginal and anal area. I'm really worried about infecting the colon with the HSV via the colonoscopy. I'm wondering has anyone been through this. How did it work out for you. I'm really freaking out.

TheOneInFour · 08-13-2003, 09:58 AM

Hey IslandGirl,

Good luck with that! I have never had it done. I can understand your concerns, with the colon being entirly mucous membrane. Have you talked to your doctor (who's doing the procedure) about the herpes? I think you should if you haven't already. You might find you get some relief from symptoms by taking Valtrex or Famvir (antiviral drugs) on suppressive therapy (daily dosage). You should try this out for a little while beforehand, if possible, to see if it actually works for you.

The doc may or may not take your concerns seriously (depending how well informed s/he is about herpes), but if I was in your place I think I'd want to know what the risks are (and be told by someone who knows what they're talking about).

Why don't you try submitting a question about it to Dr. H. on herpes.org (in our Resource Links). He is a medical doctor with extensive knowledge and experience with herpes. He might be able to explain what the risks are (if any) and offer some suggestions about how to minimise them.

Good luck! Let us know how you make out.

TheOneInFour

kaesle · 08-18-2003, 12:42 AM

islandgirl- sorry I didn't discover this site sooner. I'm not sure if you have had your colonoscopy yet, but when I had that procedure done a few years ago the Dr. put me on Valtrex daily and was extremely cautious with me. I remember freaking out too, but my Dr. was awesome with me. Everything turned out fine and I was reported to have a "happy healthy colon" by the Dr. lol
It definately helps to tell your Dr. so they can be aware of the H. And if you can start Valtrex daily, then it probably wouldn't hurt (make sure to ask your Dr. first) Good luck and let us know how you're doing

[This message has been edited by kaesle (edited 08-18-2003).]