Sedation

[Mcaw]

Having signioscopy on Saturday am

Told getting light Iv sedation due to my nervous and anxiety am

Given diazapsn all week 2mg but hasn’t helped me settle previous signioscopy was very painful

And now scared for thid one does Iv sedation work and picolax to be taken at five and ten but can I take it earlier as ten at night I won’t get much sleep

[Nicole_GCCA Partner]

Hi @Mcaw ,

Sorry to hear about the anxiety you are experiencing on the upcoming sigmoidoscopy. Hidden is absolutely on the money about tensing up making uncomfortable.

Everyone's level of discomfort varies, but many people find the sigmoidoscopy to be... well not pleasant, but not terrible. An anoscopy is something that is definitely complained about more often, which is basically an anal spectrum (so similar to what a gynecologist uses but this is for the rectum).

The medication you mentioned in your first post, along with the sedation the doctor will provide, can go a long way in easing the anxiety. The more relaxed you are, the less tension and discomfort you will experience.

It is important to communicate with the doctor about the anxiety you are experiencing, before, during, and after the procedure. Be clear with the doctor and let them know how you are feeling, there is no reason to be a hero if the pain or anxiety becomes too much. Your doctor would need to work with you to determine how they can perform the necessary tests, while ensuring you are able to tolerate the procedure.

Did you get clear instructions on the picolax? You need to take any prep medication exactly as the doctor has prescribed. The times they are giving you are set because that will clear out the bowels in time for the procedure. Unfortunately, your sleep will likely be interrupted, this is just the reality of a day before a procedure.

If you experience any side effects or issues with completing the prep, there is typically an emergency number your doctor should have provided you, because if you become ill from the prep, they may advise you to stop taking it.

I'm sorry to hear that you had a painful sigmoidoscopy in the past. Did you have any sedation with that procedure? Many people do not have sedation with sigmoidoscopy, so I am hoping that by them giving you the IV, you will be relaxed and not in pain.

Please keep us updated and we'll be thinking of you.

~Nicole, GCCA Staff Member & Colon Cancer Connected Site Administrator.

Just a reminder - this group is here to offer support, share experiences, and offer our thoughts - but this is not medical advice, and you should always consult your medical professional(s). Additionally, for all emergencies, seek urgent medical care, never delay.

[Nicole_GCCA Partner]

Hi Mcaw ,

Checking in - how did everything go?