First timer here. Scheduled for an endoscope and colonocsopy Thursday morning at 8:30 in the morning. So, the fun will start tomorrow at noon.
I just found out that I should have stocked up on sports drinks like Powerade etc. so I'll have to run out for some tomorrow morning.
Is there anything else I should be prepared for/know about from you ladies who have been through this before.
It's not a routine procedure, so needless to say I am extremely freaked out right now.
Cathy
p.s. Picked up a 36 roll package of TP today so I've got that covered.
Full Version: prepping for colonoscopy tomorrow.....
Hi Cathy,
The process of "Getting ready" is truly the only part of this process that can be a bit challenging. That said, you'll do fine. Just be prepared to be in the bathroom quite a bit once the stuff starts working. I hope this isn't TMI, but I also found it helpful to put some neosporin (or something similar) on my rectum - to help with soreness BEFORE it started. All of the trips to the bathroom can result in chapped/irritatedness. I started applying the neosporin immediately and it helped greatly! Good luck and breathe. I know it's hard and you're doing the right thing and it will be done soon. Kathleent
The process of "Getting ready" is truly the only part of this process that can be a bit challenging. That said, you'll do fine. Just be prepared to be in the bathroom quite a bit once the stuff starts working. I hope this isn't TMI, but I also found it helpful to put some neosporin (or something similar) on my rectum - to help with soreness BEFORE it started. All of the trips to the bathroom can result in chapped/irritatedness. I started applying the neosporin immediately and it helped greatly! Good luck and breathe. I know it's hard and you're doing the right thing and it will be done soon. Kathleent
QUOTE (kathleent @ Dec 9 2008, 04:25 PM) 
Hi Cathy,
The process of "Getting ready" is truly the only part of this process that can be a bit challenging. That said, you'll do fine. Just be prepared to be in the bathroom quite a bit once the stuff starts working. I hope this isn't TMI, but I also found it helpful to put some neosporin (or something similar) on my rectum - to help with soreness BEFORE it started. All of the trips to the bathroom can result in chapped/irritatedness. I started applying the neosporin immediately and it helped greatly! Good luck and breathe. I know it's hard and you're doing the right thing and it will be done soon. Kathleent
The process of "Getting ready" is truly the only part of this process that can be a bit challenging. That said, you'll do fine. Just be prepared to be in the bathroom quite a bit once the stuff starts working. I hope this isn't TMI, but I also found it helpful to put some neosporin (or something similar) on my rectum - to help with soreness BEFORE it started. All of the trips to the bathroom can result in chapped/irritatedness. I started applying the neosporin immediately and it helped greatly! Good luck and breathe. I know it's hard and you're doing the right thing and it will be done soon. Kathleent
Thanks for that tip Kathleen....It makes total sense that you will become irritated "there". I'll definitely be doing that.
I'm having it done in a hospital and have been told I'll get the full benefits of having good drugs at the ready. I'm not so concerned about the actual procedure as I am of the results (worry, worry, worry.....anxiety rules).
Breathing will help also......;-)
Prepping for the colonscopy is so different for each person...my husband has had one and his prep wasn't bad at all. Mine had me hopping up every 15 minutes! Have some good reading material for the 'ladies room' (for that's what it shall be!) and just resign yourself to a night of dealing with it. Luckily, once they get you in and put a needle in your arm, it's all over in the blink of an eye. (You'll be surprised..really you will, at how fast the whole thing seems to happen.)
Hey,
Did either of you have headaches at all? The nurse at the doc's office warned me that I may become headachy, I guess due to dehydration.
Anyone have trouble getting the stuff down? A friend of mine told me that she could barely keep it down and at one point thought she was going to have to cancel....
Thanks.
Cathy
Did either of you have headaches at all? The nurse at the doc's office warned me that I may become headachy, I guess due to dehydration.
Anyone have trouble getting the stuff down? A friend of mine told me that she could barely keep it down and at one point thought she was going to have to cancel....
Thanks.
Cathy
Wow, how timely this post is!
I'm just now in the throes of drinking and pooping my brains out
This is my first colonoscopy tomorrow. I was drinking a glass of the prep stuff every 15 minutes and realized I needed to do it less often because since in the beginning nothing comes out, there is no room for all the liquid I was putting in and I felt very nauseated. But I drank some of that Reed's Ginger beer, not really a beer but a soda pop. It's very strong, real ginger and it settled my stomach right away. I have been going every 10-15 minutes and yes, the rectum feels like it's on fire. Had I known that I would have put something on it in the beginning. But I put some Desitin (the old formula, heavy paste) since it is very soothing and healing due to the Vit A and D and zinc. So I highly suggest you get some and put it on FIRST and reapply as necessary.
I've been drinking natural chicken and vegetable broths that I bought at the store today, also lime and orange jello, which I don't like but we are not supposed to drink or eat any red or purple things. And the jello at least helped me to feel like I was eating solid food. I also bought Vitamin Water and have been drinking that. I will finish up with mint tea to sooth my insides.
This has been a real experience
But they do tell me the actual procedure is a piece of cake.
Let us know how your prep goes. Good luck!
I'm just now in the throes of drinking and pooping my brains out
This is my first colonoscopy tomorrow. I was drinking a glass of the prep stuff every 15 minutes and realized I needed to do it less often because since in the beginning nothing comes out, there is no room for all the liquid I was putting in and I felt very nauseated. But I drank some of that Reed's Ginger beer, not really a beer but a soda pop. It's very strong, real ginger and it settled my stomach right away. I have been going every 10-15 minutes and yes, the rectum feels like it's on fire. Had I known that I would have put something on it in the beginning. But I put some Desitin (the old formula, heavy paste) since it is very soothing and healing due to the Vit A and D and zinc. So I highly suggest you get some and put it on FIRST and reapply as necessary.I've been drinking natural chicken and vegetable broths that I bought at the store today, also lime and orange jello, which I don't like but we are not supposed to drink or eat any red or purple things. And the jello at least helped me to feel like I was eating solid food. I also bought Vitamin Water and have been drinking that. I will finish up with mint tea to sooth my insides.
This has been a real experience
But they do tell me the actual procedure is a piece of cake.Let us know how your prep goes. Good luck!
Sariah,
I'll let you know how my prep goes if you let us know how your procedure goes.....;-)
What time do you go in?
Did you start drinking the goop at noon? My schedule is one package of Pico Salix at noon.
One bottle of CitroMax at 3, then the other package of PS at 6.
I can't eat anything solid before that???
I assume I can have my morning coffee, right? And, with milk? Will that be cheating?
You sound like you've survived the worst of it......
Good luck tomorrow.
Hope to talk to you when you're back on your feet!
Cathy
I'll let you know how my prep goes if you let us know how your procedure goes.....;-)
What time do you go in?
Did you start drinking the goop at noon? My schedule is one package of Pico Salix at noon.
One bottle of CitroMax at 3, then the other package of PS at 6.
I can't eat anything solid before that???
I assume I can have my morning coffee, right? And, with milk? Will that be cheating?
You sound like you've survived the worst of it......
Good luck tomorrow.
Hope to talk to you when you're back on your feet!
Cathy
Cathy,
I had to start drinking the prep at 5 pm but it was different. It was PEG (polyethylene glycol) and it was 1/2 gallon. Also had to take to Bicodyl tablets at the beginning. But no solid food at all the day prior to the colonoscopy.
NO:
milk
dairy
artificial creamers
red or purple colored drinks
How much fluid is yours? I'm surprised you have to start drinking so early.
I have to be at the hospital at 6 am.
By the time I get home, you should be starting your prep.
Cindy
I had to start drinking the prep at 5 pm but it was different. It was PEG (polyethylene glycol) and it was 1/2 gallon. Also had to take to Bicodyl tablets at the beginning. But no solid food at all the day prior to the colonoscopy.
NO:
milk
dairy
artificial creamers
red or purple colored drinks
How much fluid is yours? I'm surprised you have to start drinking so early.
I have to be at the hospital at 6 am.
By the time I get home, you should be starting your prep.
Cindy
Just wanted to add that I was tempted to cheat and put creamer in my coffee, but I would be so upset if it ended up interfering with the procedure and I sure wouldn't want to have to go through this a second time. So I am behaving, but I sure am hungry.
QUOTE (manyboys @ Dec 9 2008, 04:20 PM)
First timer here. Scheduled for an endoscope and colonocsopy Thursday morning at 8:30 in the morning. So, the fun will start tomorrow at noon.
I just found out that I should have stocked up on sports drinks like Powerade etc. so I'll have to run out for some tomorrow morning.
Is there anything else I should be prepared for/know about from you ladies who have been through this before.
It's not a routine procedure, so needless to say I am extremely freaked out right now.
Cathy
p.s. Picked up a 36 roll package of TP today so I've got that covered.
I just found out that I should have stocked up on sports drinks like Powerade etc. so I'll have to run out for some tomorrow morning.
Is there anything else I should be prepared for/know about from you ladies who have been through this before.
It's not a routine procedure, so needless to say I am extremely freaked out right now.
Cathy
p.s. Picked up a 36 roll package of TP today so I've got that covered.
Hi Cathy,
I have had endoscopies and colonoscopies since 1996. I was diagnosed with Barretts disease and later in 2001 a rare form of Colitis. There is no real prep for the endoscopy procedure other than avoiding aspirin, advil and any type of NSAID's. Oh then of course you must let them know of any herbs or smoking or drugs you take. Also no food after midnight. Although I am drug phobic, I actually don't mind the Versed/Phentinol they give to sedate me. It's called an awake amnesia. This past spring I made the Doctor cut back even further on my meds before the procedure. They told me I probably held the record for the lowest dosage. I ended up gaging and they had to give me more. I remember it well, but there was no pain. Next time I won't try to cut back on the meds. Now as far as the endoscopy, that is pure H#$$ to prep for. Especially if you have severe diarhea to begin with. I just about passed out doing the prep. At that time I had diarhea 60 plus times a day and my bottom was trashed. Again, the procedure was a piece of cake. I didn't like the fact that my Doctor would come to my bedside to give me a report on the results. I couldn't remember anything. Make sure your driver brings a note pad and pen to write notes when the Doctor see's you directly after your awake in recovery because usually the follow up in the office is at a later date. You will be just fine. In fact, enjoy the recovery time. Its like being on anti anxiety meds. Nothing bothers you in the least. If they give you Versed in you IV that is an anti anxiety. Good luck and don't be worried. Debra
QUOTE (Sariah @ Dec 9 2008, 10:19 PM)
Cathy,
I had to start drinking the prep at 5 pm but it was different. It was PEG (polyethylene glycol) and it was 1/2 gallon. Also had to take to Bicodyl tablets at the beginning. But no solid food at all the day prior to the colonoscopy.
NO:
milk
dairy
artificial creamers
red or purple colored drinks
How much fluid is yours? I'm surprised you have to start drinking so early.
I have to be at the hospital at 6 am.
By the time I get home, you should be starting your prep.
Good morning Sariah,
I imagine at this time you are already on your way to your procedure. I'm wishing you good luck....
I started out with milk in my coffee this morning until I read your post. Got maybe one or two sips in then dumped it. Thanks for the warning.
I have to drink a ton of water all day, but the packets of stuff require only mixing with 5 oz. of water and I take two of those. Then a bottle of Citromax. So, I'll be home for most of the day.
Hope you had a good night's sleep.
Let me know how it went for you when you can.
Cathy
Cindy
I had to start drinking the prep at 5 pm but it was different. It was PEG (polyethylene glycol) and it was 1/2 gallon. Also had to take to Bicodyl tablets at the beginning. But no solid food at all the day prior to the colonoscopy.
NO:
milk
dairy
artificial creamers
red or purple colored drinks
How much fluid is yours? I'm surprised you have to start drinking so early.
I have to be at the hospital at 6 am.
By the time I get home, you should be starting your prep.
Good morning Sariah,
I imagine at this time you are already on your way to your procedure. I'm wishing you good luck....
I started out with milk in my coffee this morning until I read your post. Got maybe one or two sips in then dumped it. Thanks for the warning.
I have to drink a ton of water all day, but the packets of stuff require only mixing with 5 oz. of water and I take two of those. Then a bottle of Citromax. So, I'll be home for most of the day.
Hope you had a good night's sleep.
Let me know how it went for you when you can.
Cathy
Cindy
QUOTE (DebraD @ Dec 9 2008, 10:22 PM)
Hi Cathy,
I have had endoscopies and colonoscopies since 1996. I was diagnosed with Barretts disease and later in 2001 a rare form of Colitis. There is no real prep for the endoscopy procedure other than avoiding aspirin, advil and any type of NSAID's. Oh then of course you must let them know of any herbs or smoking or drugs you take. Also no food after midnight. Although I am drug phobic, I actually don't mind the Versed/Phentinol they give to sedate me. It's called an awake amnesia. This past spring I made the Doctor cut back even further on my meds before the procedure. They told me I probably held the record for the lowest dosage. I ended up gaging and they had to give me more. I remember it well, but there was no pain. Next time I won't try to cut back on the meds. Now as far as the endoscopy, that is pure H#$$ to prep for. Especially if you have severe diarhea to begin with. I just about passed out doing the prep. At that time I had diarhea 60 plus times a day and my bottom was trashed. Again, the procedure was a piece of cake. I didn't like the fact that my Doctor would come to my bedside to give me a report on the results. I couldn't remember anything. Make sure your driver brings a note pad and pen to write notes when the Doctor see's you directly after your awake in recovery because usually the follow up in the office is at a later date. You will be just fine. In fact, enjoy the recovery time. Its like being on anti anxiety meds. Nothing bothers you in the least. If they give you Versed in you IV that is an anti anxiety. Good luck and don't be worried. Debra
Thanks for that....I'm not so much worried about the procedure as long as I get drugs (big baby here, I even get nitrous for dental cleaning....Pink Floyd on the iPod and I'm happy). It's the results that I am really worried about.
I have been suffering with some bowel issues for a few months now; a bit of pain on my left side and loose bms. So, I need to get in there and find out what's going on. High anxiety is not helping at all going into this but it needs to be dealt with.
The endo talked to me about Barrett's and scolded me for not taking my Prilosec daily (I was only taking it when I needed it after my GERD calmed down considerably) which is why he wants to go in that end.
When I described to him what my other symptoms were, he kind of eluded to the fact that lots of women "my age" start to have gastro troubles, but I think this is more.
I am not familiar with colitis.....can you tell me about it? Are you on medication for it? How is it treated? I hope you are not suffering with it.
Cathy
I have had endoscopies and colonoscopies since 1996. I was diagnosed with Barretts disease and later in 2001 a rare form of Colitis. There is no real prep for the endoscopy procedure other than avoiding aspirin, advil and any type of NSAID's. Oh then of course you must let them know of any herbs or smoking or drugs you take. Also no food after midnight. Although I am drug phobic, I actually don't mind the Versed/Phentinol they give to sedate me. It's called an awake amnesia. This past spring I made the Doctor cut back even further on my meds before the procedure. They told me I probably held the record for the lowest dosage. I ended up gaging and they had to give me more. I remember it well, but there was no pain. Next time I won't try to cut back on the meds. Now as far as the endoscopy, that is pure H#$$ to prep for. Especially if you have severe diarhea to begin with. I just about passed out doing the prep. At that time I had diarhea 60 plus times a day and my bottom was trashed. Again, the procedure was a piece of cake. I didn't like the fact that my Doctor would come to my bedside to give me a report on the results. I couldn't remember anything. Make sure your driver brings a note pad and pen to write notes when the Doctor see's you directly after your awake in recovery because usually the follow up in the office is at a later date. You will be just fine. In fact, enjoy the recovery time. Its like being on anti anxiety meds. Nothing bothers you in the least. If they give you Versed in you IV that is an anti anxiety. Good luck and don't be worried. Debra
Thanks for that....I'm not so much worried about the procedure as long as I get drugs (big baby here, I even get nitrous for dental cleaning....Pink Floyd on the iPod and I'm happy). It's the results that I am really worried about.
I have been suffering with some bowel issues for a few months now; a bit of pain on my left side and loose bms. So, I need to get in there and find out what's going on. High anxiety is not helping at all going into this but it needs to be dealt with.
The endo talked to me about Barrett's and scolded me for not taking my Prilosec daily (I was only taking it when I needed it after my GERD calmed down considerably) which is why he wants to go in that end.
When I described to him what my other symptoms were, he kind of eluded to the fact that lots of women "my age" start to have gastro troubles, but I think this is more.
I am not familiar with colitis.....can you tell me about it? Are you on medication for it? How is it treated? I hope you are not suffering with it.
Cathy
The trick to a "decent" prep is your diet the week prior to it. If you follow this diet your prep will be so much easier on you.
The week prior:
no vegetables with skin, i.e. peas, beans, corn
no tomato based foods, i.e. salsa, tomato sauce, tomato paste
no foods with seeds
no nuts
no red meat
The day before the prep try eating as light as possible.....the less food in your gastro tract...the less that has to come out!
The above diet is the one physicians themselves follow. Dear doctor hubby and I both had our first baseline colonoscopies within the last year using the "gold standard" diet and prep kit...which is Miralax powder (it is tasteless) mixed with gatorade and 4 dulcolax laxative pills.
Our prep was truly a breeze and we were cleaned out within 4 hours total. No burning backside either. But that is due to the fact that we had nothing acidic in our system for 1 week prior.
The week prior:
no vegetables with skin, i.e. peas, beans, corn
no tomato based foods, i.e. salsa, tomato sauce, tomato paste
no foods with seeds
no nuts
no red meat
The day before the prep try eating as light as possible.....the less food in your gastro tract...the less that has to come out!
The above diet is the one physicians themselves follow. Dear doctor hubby and I both had our first baseline colonoscopies within the last year using the "gold standard" diet and prep kit...which is Miralax powder (it is tasteless) mixed with gatorade and 4 dulcolax laxative pills.
Our prep was truly a breeze and we were cleaned out within 4 hours total. No burning backside either. But that is due to the fact that we had nothing acidic in our system for 1 week prior.
Jeez, I guess I should have posted the question much sooner coastergirl.
I've had all of the above in the past week! I did eat fairly lightly yesterday so that's good.
I'll know soon enough. Just had the first drink. Wasn't too bad because it actually tasted just like Gatorade.
Thanks for the advice, though. Will keep it in mind and pass it along.
Cathy
I've had all of the above in the past week! I did eat fairly lightly yesterday so that's good.
I'll know soon enough. Just had the first drink. Wasn't too bad because it actually tasted just like Gatorade.
Thanks for the advice, though. Will keep it in mind and pass it along.
Cathy
The procedure is nothing. the preping is the worst part of it all. I was just happy to have mine down and I feel so much better for it. I only had on pylop and the dr said that it was a precancerous kind. But she got it all and I will have another one done in 2 years...So enjoy the day of rest. Enjoy the prep drink..yuk,,,,,
You will do well.
Sishaircut
You will do well.
Sishaircut
Cathy,
I'm back from mine and then laid down and slept for 3 hours, since I've been awake since 3 am and the sedative drugs were still in my system.
I did go through some panic prior to the procedure as I was lying there hooked up to the heart monitor. I think because the only times I've had to go to the hospital 4 times is due to fast, racing heart. Then the nurse came over and I could see her looking at the monitor just behind me with a puzzled look on her face. I knew my heart was doing weird things because I felt it. Then I got anxious worrying that if it got much worse, they would have to reschedule and I knew I would not go through that prep again for awhile.
Luckily about that time they wheeled me to the procedure room, gave me the drugs and the next thing I knew I was back and DH was sitting next to me and I asked if they did it yet. Compared to the prep, this was a piece of cake. I felt so relaxed after and it made for a good nap at home.
How is the drinking going?
I'm back from mine and then laid down and slept for 3 hours, since I've been awake since 3 am and the sedative drugs were still in my system.
I did go through some panic prior to the procedure as I was lying there hooked up to the heart monitor. I think because the only times I've had to go to the hospital 4 times is due to fast, racing heart. Then the nurse came over and I could see her looking at the monitor just behind me with a puzzled look on her face. I knew my heart was doing weird things because I felt it. Then I got anxious worrying that if it got much worse, they would have to reschedule and I knew I would not go through that prep again for awhile.
Luckily about that time they wheeled me to the procedure room, gave me the drugs and the next thing I knew I was back and DH was sitting next to me and I asked if they did it yet. Compared to the prep, this was a piece of cake. I felt so relaxed after and it made for a good nap at home.
How is the drinking going?
Hi Sariah,
I'm so glad that you're done and feeling relaxed now.
I am also worried that I'll panic beforehand. I am trying to remain calm right now!
Finished the first drink at noon (wasn't bad at all, tasted like green Gatorade), had my 2 litres of water and spend a great deal of time on the loo. Very good tip re the salve for the butt. Definitely helps.
I'm supposed to drink a bottle of something else at 3, but I'm going to try and nip out to get my son from school. I hope I make it. All is calm right now......;-)
It must stop at some point though, doesn't it? I mean, there can't be much more to come out!
Second drink goes in at 6.
I'm starving and headachy and my pants are beginning of fall off!
Cathy
I'm so glad that you're done and feeling relaxed now.
I am also worried that I'll panic beforehand. I am trying to remain calm right now!
Finished the first drink at noon (wasn't bad at all, tasted like green Gatorade), had my 2 litres of water and spend a great deal of time on the loo. Very good tip re the salve for the butt. Definitely helps.
I'm supposed to drink a bottle of something else at 3, but I'm going to try and nip out to get my son from school. I hope I make it. All is calm right now......;-)
It must stop at some point though, doesn't it? I mean, there can't be much more to come out!
Second drink goes in at 6.
I'm starving and headachy and my pants are beginning of fall off!
Cathy
Cathy,
How's the prep going?
How's the prep going?
Ugh, I am spent!
I am done with the drinks and am pretty sure I've taken in all the liquid I am supposed to. I'm trying to get into the shower, then hopefully fall into bed. Gotta get up very early tomorrow (not as early as you though) and this has really knocked me out.
I just feel wiped, but the pooping has not been intolerable.
How about you? How are you feeling? Have you shaken the sedative they gave you? Were you able to start eating right away?
Thanks for asking, btw.
I am done with the drinks and am pretty sure I've taken in all the liquid I am supposed to. I'm trying to get into the shower, then hopefully fall into bed. Gotta get up very early tomorrow (not as early as you though) and this has really knocked me out.
I just feel wiped, but the pooping has not been intolerable.
How about you? How are you feeling? Have you shaken the sedative they gave you? Were you able to start eating right away?
Thanks for asking, btw.
Cathy,
How did your colonoscopy go? I've been wondering how you are doing.
How did your colonoscopy go? I've been wondering how you are doing.
QUOTE (Sariah @ Dec 13 2008, 09:23 AM)
Cathy,
How did your colonoscopy go? I've been wondering how you are doing.
How did your colonoscopy go? I've been wondering how you are doing.
Hi there,
Actual procedures went very well. Everyone was so nice at the hospital. I really admire the nurses! What a great job and I really admire them....very, very busy but all the while doing there best to keep me calm. Thank God for the medication. It was fantastic. I woke up at the end just as the doctor told me I would, to see him coming out! He did find a polyp and removed it. Also took samples from my esophagus.
When he came to report back he told me that everything looked great, that he took the polyp and samples and told me to come back to see him in a month.
I knew there was something down there. I could feel it so I am very, very glad to have pushed for the colonoscopy.
I don't want to think of how things may have turned out had I not pressed for it.
Unfortunately, I spent a great deal of time imagining much, much worse.
Thank you for asking about me.....I would have reported back sooner, but couldn't access the board.
Cathy
Glad to hear it went so well. How did you know something was wrong? I had it done because my bowels did not want to move despite doing all the right things and it had been going on for several months. I was worried about the big 'C' and at the least figured I had some pouches holding things up from diverticulosis. But none of that. Just the 2 polyps. But can polyps cause constipation? After the procedure the doc said he had no idea why I had constipation, but said it could be due to thyroid. I started on thyroid meds 6 weeks ago and haven't yet worked up to my optimal dose, so I'm hopeful that as my thyroid function improves, the bowel function will also.
Hi there,
I have never been constipated....always the opposite, but the Prilosec I'm on for GERD does makes things move more quickly than without, that's for sure. I have always had stomach/digestive issues that never really changed my life, they were/are just there. So, I'm used to that.
Have you ever taken anything like "greens"? Greens + has great products also the Vegan line of products are excellent. I take either the caps or smoothie mixtures that I throw together with fruit and yoghurt. Both of these things should get you going. If you haven't tried something like that, it's worth it because they're also good for you.
The polyp was in the very lower bowel area right around my "sit bone" on the left side. I kept complaining to my GP that this sensation was in my buttock. I had no idea that bowels went that far down, but after having an internal ultra sound on my ovaries (just to rule that out), the techie said that she was having difficulty finding my left ovary because it was buried in my bowels (ewww, yuck) so I put two and two together then asked for the colonoscopy. I had had a hip injury from yoga on my right side that was really bad, so for a while we thought it was a referred pain, but turns out it wasn't.
I feel very lucky that my more rational, reasonable side pushed for this because my irrational side can very easily wallow in denial.
The anxiety that hit me like a brick wall almost the day I turned 50 and started really feeling menopause symptoms makes it very difficult to separate the two, I think.
I think it would be a good thing to have a detached, reasonable spokesperson for every menopausal woman to speak for her and give her a good slap when she starts heading in a dangerous direction.
To answer your question (so sorry to ramble) about polyps and constipation, yes I do believe they can.
Hopefully, your thyroid medication can help but if you haven't tried a green product before give it a go. Like I said, it can't hurt especially if you don't or can't get all the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables in daily.
Cathy
I have never been constipated....always the opposite, but the Prilosec I'm on for GERD does makes things move more quickly than without, that's for sure. I have always had stomach/digestive issues that never really changed my life, they were/are just there. So, I'm used to that.
Have you ever taken anything like "greens"? Greens + has great products also the Vegan line of products are excellent. I take either the caps or smoothie mixtures that I throw together with fruit and yoghurt. Both of these things should get you going. If you haven't tried something like that, it's worth it because they're also good for you.
The polyp was in the very lower bowel area right around my "sit bone" on the left side. I kept complaining to my GP that this sensation was in my buttock. I had no idea that bowels went that far down, but after having an internal ultra sound on my ovaries (just to rule that out), the techie said that she was having difficulty finding my left ovary because it was buried in my bowels (ewww, yuck) so I put two and two together then asked for the colonoscopy. I had had a hip injury from yoga on my right side that was really bad, so for a while we thought it was a referred pain, but turns out it wasn't.
I feel very lucky that my more rational, reasonable side pushed for this because my irrational side can very easily wallow in denial.
The anxiety that hit me like a brick wall almost the day I turned 50 and started really feeling menopause symptoms makes it very difficult to separate the two, I think.
I think it would be a good thing to have a detached, reasonable spokesperson for every menopausal woman to speak for her and give her a good slap when she starts heading in a dangerous direction.
To answer your question (so sorry to ramble) about polyps and constipation, yes I do believe they can.
Hopefully, your thyroid medication can help but if you haven't tried a green product before give it a go. Like I said, it can't hurt especially if you don't or can't get all the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables in daily.
Cathy
Hi Cathy,
My colitis started 2000 but was not diagnosed until 2001/2002. I had severe cramping and diarhea up to 60 times a day and night. I would break into a sweat and the stomache cramps were like food poisoning or flu cramps. Horrible....I would have the urge to vomit at the same time the pain was so bad. I had a new baby to take care of and it was HELL. It took years to get it under control. I now get it during very stressful times. My daughter was diagnosed with Crohns at 19 and my son is going in for an endoscopy/colonoscopy for severe diarhea and blood in stool and when he vomited. It's scary. I took Asacol for a while and every type of treatment from the health food store. I refused to take the Prednisone because I have anxiety attacks. My daughter has taken large doses of it for years and I told her to get off of it. Now I take flax oil and fish oil. Also I take digestive enymes from the health food store. I still have stomach issues but I can live with them. I hope all goes well for you..............Debra
My colitis started 2000 but was not diagnosed until 2001/2002. I had severe cramping and diarhea up to 60 times a day and night. I would break into a sweat and the stomache cramps were like food poisoning or flu cramps. Horrible....I would have the urge to vomit at the same time the pain was so bad. I had a new baby to take care of and it was HELL. It took years to get it under control. I now get it during very stressful times. My daughter was diagnosed with Crohns at 19 and my son is going in for an endoscopy/colonoscopy for severe diarhea and blood in stool and when he vomited. It's scary. I took Asacol for a while and every type of treatment from the health food store. I refused to take the Prednisone because I have anxiety attacks. My daughter has taken large doses of it for years and I told her to get off of it. Now I take flax oil and fish oil. Also I take digestive enymes from the health food store. I still have stomach issues but I can live with them. I hope all goes well for you..............Debra
QUOTE (manyboys @ Dec 13 2008, 11:48 AM)
Hi there,
Actual procedures went very well. Everyone was so nice at the hospital. I really admire the nurses! What a great job and I really admire them....very, very busy but all the while doing there best to keep me calm. Thank God for the medication. It was fantastic. I woke up at the end just as the doctor told me I would, to see him coming out! He did find a polyp and removed it. Also took samples from my esophagus.
When he came to report back he told me that everything looked great, that he took the polyp and samples and told me to come back to see him in a month.
I knew there was something down there. I could feel it so I am very, very glad to have pushed for the colonoscopy.
I don't want to think of how things may have turned out had I not pressed for it.
Unfortunately, I spent a great deal of time imagining much, much worse.
Thank you for asking about me.....I would have reported back sooner, but couldn't access the board.
Cathy
Actual procedures went very well. Everyone was so nice at the hospital. I really admire the nurses! What a great job and I really admire them....very, very busy but all the while doing there best to keep me calm. Thank God for the medication. It was fantastic. I woke up at the end just as the doctor told me I would, to see him coming out! He did find a polyp and removed it. Also took samples from my esophagus.
When he came to report back he told me that everything looked great, that he took the polyp and samples and told me to come back to see him in a month.
I knew there was something down there. I could feel it so I am very, very glad to have pushed for the colonoscopy.
I don't want to think of how things may have turned out had I not pressed for it.
Unfortunately, I spent a great deal of time imagining much, much worse.
Thank you for asking about me.....I would have reported back sooner, but couldn't access the board.
Cathy
Cathy, I am so glad to hear everything went well for you. The meds they give during the procedure rock! And thats coming from a drug phobic. Now you will just need to wait for the biopsy to come back. That usually takes a week or so. If the doc thought something was really serious he would have had you come in right away. Im glad its over for you...........Debra
QUOTE (Sariah @ Dec 13 2008, 12:04 PM)
Glad to hear it went so well. How did you know something was wrong? I had it done because my bowels did not want to move despite doing all the right things and it had been going on for several months. I was worried about the big 'C' and at the least figured I had some pouches holding things up from diverticulosis. But none of that. Just the 2 polyps. But can polyps cause constipation? After the procedure the doc said he had no idea why I had constipation, but said it could be due to thyroid. I started on thyroid meds 6 weeks ago and haven't yet worked up to my optimal dose, so I'm hopeful that as my thyroid function improves, the bowel function will also.
Hi there,
Just thought I'd post that I finally had my follow up visit with Gastro Guy this morning. He showed me the report (and pictures eeewww) of my polyp. Thankfully, it was the benign type. Also, everything was AOK with the samples he took from my stomach and esophagus. Guess he wanted to make sure there was nothing going on in there because of my A/R GERD. He was also looking for H. Pylori and I'm clear for that.
Sariah, you asked how I knew something was wrong....well it's pretty weird how you just know sometimes when you're not right and I had symptoms; gas, slight bloating, some discomfort (which I am used to but this time it was different) all in the area of my descending colon and my BM's were not shaped quite right. That was because of the polyp....It was in the spot where I felt discomfort.
I tried to put it all down to changes that my body was experiencing with menopause, but for some reason I knew something else was up.
It was good that I pressed for the colonoscopy. Now that the thing is gone, I don't have those problems.
Thanks for updating us. I was wondering how you were doing.
You know, my doc said he removed a couple benign polyps also, but no details and I didn't go to the office to follow up since I pay out of pocket. But now you have me wondering if they were affecting my bowel movements, because since the colonoscopy I've not had as much trouble.
Did he say if the polyps can cause constipation?
You know, my doc said he removed a couple benign polyps also, but no details and I didn't go to the office to follow up since I pay out of pocket. But now you have me wondering if they were affecting my bowel movements, because since the colonoscopy I've not had as much trouble.
Did he say if the polyps can cause constipation?
QUOTE (Sariah @ Jan 12 2009, 09:14 PM)
Thanks for updating us. I was wondering how you were doing.
You know, my doc said he removed a couple benign polyps also, but no details and I didn't go to the office to follow up since I pay out of pocket. But now you have me wondering if they were affecting my bowel movements, because since the colonoscopy I've not had as much trouble.
Did he say if the polyps can cause constipation?
You know, my doc said he removed a couple benign polyps also, but no details and I didn't go to the office to follow up since I pay out of pocket. But now you have me wondering if they were affecting my bowel movements, because since the colonoscopy I've not had as much trouble.
Did he say if the polyps can cause constipation?
So sorry Sariah....I totally meant to mention that because you were wondering earlier about it. Yes, they certainly can. In my case, I had much looser stool rather than the opposite. It's interesting that some people have no symptoms, others do. And I know that some polyps stick out and some do not which is why they can affect the shape of your, well you know what.....;-)
He told me a lot of stuff, but I was a bit petrified so only took in about 1/2 of what he said. It will come back to me later, I'm sure.
Oh, vita D, C, calcium, folate and iron are good supplements to take if you want to prevent colon polyps. Also, a baby asa a day and of course, lots of fiber to move everything along.
My GP told me 2,000 mgs. of vita D. Gastro Guy didn't get into specific amounts of any of the others.
Hope this helps and I'm glad you're not suffering with the runs anymore!
Cathy
QUOTE (manyboys @ Jan 12 2009, 09:18 PM)
So sorry Sariah....I totally meant to mention that because you were wondering earlier about it. Yes, they certainly can. In my case, I had much looser stool rather than the opposite. It's interesting that some people have no symptoms, others do. And I know that some polyps stick out and some do not which is why they can affect the shape of your, well you know what.....;-)
He told me a lot of stuff, but I was a bit petrified so only took in about 1/2 of what he said. It will come back to me later, I'm sure.
Oh, vita D, C, calcium, folate and iron are good supplements to take if you want to prevent colon polyps. Also, a baby asa a day and of course, lots of fiber to move everything along.
My GP told me 2,000 mgs. of vita D. Gastro Guy didn't get into specific amounts of any of the others.
Hope this helps and I'm glad you're not suffering with the runs anymore!
Cathy
He told me a lot of stuff, but I was a bit petrified so only took in about 1/2 of what he said. It will come back to me later, I'm sure.
Oh, vita D, C, calcium, folate and iron are good supplements to take if you want to prevent colon polyps. Also, a baby asa a day and of course, lots of fiber to move everything along.
My GP told me 2,000 mgs. of vita D. Gastro Guy didn't get into specific amounts of any of the others.
Hope this helps and I'm glad you're not suffering with the runs anymore!
Cathy
Actually, I was very constipated. Thanks for the info on the supplements. I didn't know those could prevent polyps. I've been eating cooked oat bran cereal every day and that seems to keep things moving.
QUOTE (Sariah @ Jan 12 2009, 10:27 PM)
Actually, I was very constipated. Thanks for the info on the supplements. I didn't know those could prevent polyps. I've been eating cooked oat bran cereal every day and that seems to keep things moving.
Good morning Sariah!
Just a quick suggestion. Have you ever tried any Green products? They're easy to use, very good for you and definitely will keep things moving. There are a lot to choose from and a good one will cover you for a lot of nutrients that you need anyway.....vitamins, minerals, omega 3's and greens (polyphenols). I like Greens +, but the Vegan line has a really good smoothie mix also.
It will do the trick for sure!
Cathy
Thanks, Cathy, I will check those out. Always open for suggestions!
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