Colonoscopy advice: Hi all, Looking for... - Colon Cancer Conn...

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Colonoscopy advice

Merlin1993 profile image
15 Replies

Hi all,

Looking for some advice really. I’m 29 and Ive had ibs-d for many years now, can be a real struggle but manage it the best I can. Started bleeding from the rectum a couple of months ago, small amounts on toilet paper and occasionally in the toilet itself. Had a stool sample taken plus blood tests. Blood tests returned normal but I think stool sample showed some inflammation. Constantly loose stools and have some abdominal pain last couple of days which is new for me. I have been referred to a colonoscopy surgeon and first appointment is next week. Any advice in what to expect? I think it’s just the first consultation

Thank you

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Merlin1993 profile image
Merlin1993
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15 Replies
Sunshine8240 profile image
Sunshine8240

Hi. I have a colonoscopy on Saturday so will be able to let you know! There is a thread on here by digger where people share their experiences of colonoscopy.

GCCA-Survivor profile image
GCCA-SurvivorAdministrator

Hi Merlin1993,

Thank you for posting in Colon Cancer Connected.

Your main focus is to gain information about what is occurring that is causing your condition. This colonoscopy will go a long way towards doing just that. It's great you're having this done.

The process is fairly well documented. I've had a lot of them and now I get one colonoscopy a year to stay ahead of anything that may be happening. I have Lynch Syndrome which makes me more susceptible to getting cancer. So I want to catch anything early.

The prep is the big deal and needs to be done right. Follow the eating instructions carefully. I have found that moving the timing up an hour on everything prep related works best for me especially on colonoscopy day. There is a lot to drink and sometimes the flavor isn't the best. I usually add Gatorade lime to the mix (nothing red) and that can help you tolerate. You'll be asked if you are allergic to any medications or sedatives that may be associated with the anesthesiologist. For me, I find it the most restful feeling during the procedure. You may be a little groggy afterwards, but that soon dissipates after eating something.

We do wish you the best with your consultation and getting the answers to your issues. That's the important thing. Please keep us informed as it can be helpful to others.

~Tom, GCCA Survivor - 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.

bantam12 profile image
bantam12

If you’ve not been given any prep and instructions it will just be a consultation appointment for a chat not for a colonoscopy.

7476 profile image
7476

Hi had a colonoscopy 5weeks ago very nervous but found the actual colonoscopy not half as bad as I imagined .Would not be bothered if I had to have another.Good look with the outcome

Wexford1968 profile image
Wexford1968

There just going to have look inside to make sure everything is ok. The procedure is fine you can ask to be sedated because it can be a little uncomfortable I think the worst part is the prep. It’s disgusting. I hope everything goes fine. God bless

Merlin1993 profile image
Merlin1993

Thanks everyone! I have read the prep can be quite bad. Is that just from being stuck on the loo etc? Will update after my appointment :)

Shoreturtle profile image
Shoreturtle

Yes, the bad part is having to go to the loo so often. I've gotten a couple done so far, and I needed butt cream to protect from all the wiping. I have the opposite problem than you, so my cleanse has to be a day longer with probably more stored up, lol! Its just a pain in the neck ( or bum hole, ha, ha!) BTW, I am noticing here in the U.S., docs are moving to a tablet laxative plus a flavorless powder, so the nasty- taking stuff is gone. Yee-ha!

GCCA-Survivor profile image
GCCA-SurvivorAdministrator in reply toShoreturtle

Good to know. I'm going to definitely ask about that tablet.

Nhkid profile image
Nhkid in reply toGCCA-Survivor

There is data of adverse effects of colonoscopy and it’s shocking how many side effects are in the data that no one talks about. Even death. To invasive for me. Medical malpractice second leading cause of death in USA which is pretty sad

GCCA-Survivor profile image
GCCA-SurvivorAdministrator in reply toNhkid

Some do have issues with the procedure. There are pediatric scopes that may be beneficial if you do need the procedure. I get one annually without any issues. I do wish there were a way to detect precancerous polyps in the colon lining. Once it’s cancer you haven’t prevented it. I also get an annual lower abdominal CT scan, but it can’t detect what the colonoscopy can. Maybe one day they can detect colon issues with NGS technology and a blood draw🤔😳👍

Merlin1993 profile image
Merlin1993

Hi everyone, quick update. Had my consultation yesterday and it turns out I won’t be having a colonoscopy but will be having the flexible sigmoidoscopy instead. 4-6 week wait for an appointment to arrive though. Quite nervous as I’m terrified of having an “accident” during the procedure. Hopefully all will be well!

Merlin1993 profile image
Merlin1993

Finally got my appointment guys. Flexible sigmoidoscopy on Friday! Got to do a small amount of prep, have been sent laxative powder solution so hopefully that’s not too bad! Strange thing is I haven’t noticed any bleeding for over a month now. So not sure what’s been going on!

Sooty712 profile image
Sooty712 in reply toMerlin1993

Hi hope all is well 🙂I'm booked to have a flexible sigmoidoscopy on the 1st of November really nervous 🙁 I have opted for no sedation or any pain relief as that worries me too so going to try to get through it with nothing. 🙏 How did everything go was it ok ? And did you get any answers afterwards ?🤞Best wishes and many thanks ahead 🙂

Ali_123 profile image
Ali_123

Hi Arlano, sorry for the pic but I am having same sort of blood with kind of same stool. What were other symptoms?

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Merlin1993 profile image
Merlin1993 in reply toAli_123

Not sure if that was meant for me Ali? If so then I was also having lots wind, a mucus discharge on the toilet paper sometimes, and a sharp abdominal pain along with the bleeding. My symptoms seem to have almost completely disappeared but not taking anything for granted until I know for sure! If your worried about your symptoms I would definitely speak to your doctor!

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