Colonoscopy and concerning symptoms

[Mommy_of_2]

Hi all

I've posted on here a few times in the past. My problems began while I was pregnant. I noticed blood spots in my underwear and some googling sent me down a dark hole. I'm now 6 months postpartum and my problems persist: incomplete evacuation, frequent bowel movements. No obvious blood in stool and my blood work has all checked out fine.

I finally have a colonoscopy scheduled for the 29th. I'm so scared of what they may find. I keep telling myself to be brave but with all my symptoms I just don't see how they will find anything less.

[Mommy_of_2]

my doctor never did one. he just tested for H. pylori and did blood work.

[Mommy_of_2]

I've never used laxatives. My problem is going too often to the bathroom. Once upon waking and then again a little after and [it depends on the day] maybe up to 2 more times.

[Mommy_of_2 in reply to Mommy_of_2]

I had told my GI my fear of colon cancer and he said the only true way to know was a colonoscopy so I think thats why he skipped the fit test. Also I have hemorrhoids.

[Nicole_GCCA Partner]

Hello Mommy_of_2 ,

I'm sorry to hear how stressful these symptoms are for you, and the fear and anxiety you are experiencing right now.

Right now it may seem like it must be colorectal cancer, but it is important to know that many of the symptoms of colorectal cancer are the same symptoms you could experience for a number of other conditions or diseases. Some are quite treatable with diet changes or medication or procedures, and of course, when you experience symptoms we will encourage you to get checked out because more serious conditions such as colorectal cancer, need to be ruled out.

As someone who has posted before, you've probably seen a lot of people post that they are feeling a similar situation to yours. I can say that the majority of people who post, do not end up having colorectal cancer. Sometimes it turns out that the symptoms were caused by an infection, h.ployri, or a chronic condition, and others, while relieved to hear that they do not have colorectal cancer, do not have any answers as to why the symptoms exist. Often during a colonoscopy, the doctor will take biopsies to test the tissue in your colon. Keep in mind that while they can typically tell you immediately following your colonoscopy if anything "out of the ordinary" or concerning was found, biopsy tests do take time, which means more waiting.

A number of people have been posting that they have been told that they are unable to get a colonoscopy now due to COVID, so it is good news that you are able to get one, and have a date. As with any invasive procedures, including those where sedation is used, there are risks involved. If you have any questions regarding the risks associated with a colonoscopy, be sure to discuss them with your doctor ahead of your procedure.

We've put together some tips as well as a link to a great guide that Kaiser Permanente created on foods to avoid eating in the days leading up to a colonoscopy. This will help ensure that your bowel preparation is at a level that your doctor has a clear view of your colon.

1. Once you get the prescription for the prep that you'll drink, follow your doctor's instructions exactly. Your doctor may give you a prescription, or they may tell you the name of a specific over-the-counter laxative to purchase.

You want to have the cleanest colon for the doctor to be able to see everything with no fecal matter obscuring the way. We like this tool that Kaiser Permanente put together (with drawings!) that shows food to avoid and foods to eat leading up to when you actually start drinking the prep: healthy.kaiserpermanente.or...

2. Get prepared to prep! Many people say the prep is the worst part of the colonoscopy procedure as a whole. Depending on what your doctor prescribes, it may be a lot of the same drink with the medication mixed in (such as Gatorade) vs. a smaller volume of prep that you drink, and then separately drink a certain amount of liquid of your choice (excluding something like a red Gatorade which could stain your colon for the test).

a. In addition to picking up your prescription, buy yourself some supplies:

*Toilet paper (necessary!)

*Wet wipes (never flush wipes even if they say flushable, the last thing you want is a clogged toilet when you are in the midst of prepping for a colonoscopy),

*Magazines

b. While you are going through prep, many treat themselves to buying a movie or series they've been wanting to see.

3. If during your prep you have any concerns or don't feel well (nauseous, etc.) call your doctor to let them know what is going on.

4. You will likely be required to have a family member or friend drive you home (you can not drive for the rest of the day), most places won't want you taking a taxi or Uber home alone. Bringing a family member or friend who can take notes on what the doctor tells you when you are in the recovery area will be key - many people report that they don't remember the post-colonoscopy conversation with the doctor very well.

Good luck and please keep us posted. We'll be thinking of you and hoping for good news.

~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.