I had my consultation for a colonoscopy (female MD, thankfully - WHO is in my HMO!), and will have it done in the next few weeks.  Please share your experiences; I'm concerned, but not terrified - there's rampant cancers in my Mom's family - ovarian, liver, pancreatic (the absolute worst), stomach.  Having this test done is not an option, but a necessity.Thanks to all!  

Hi Tamara,While I have not had this done yet (and I'm sure they will want to test that , too, since they have probed every other part of me , my mother and father-in-law have had this done a few times and they are both elderly. Neither one said it was any big deal to them. They were of course sedated and came home right after the procedure . I think they kept my mom but she had a recent bypass and guess wanted to keep an eye on her . So , if they are any example , you should have a relatively easy time. I'd relax and not worry. ( well, maybe I wouldn't but you know what I mean -heehee)I worry if the sun will come up tomorrow so don't do as I do , do as i  say :biggrin:hugs, jeanne

Hi Tamara...I had a sigmoidoscopy last yera, which is similar but they don't go as far up.  Piece of cake. My sister had a colonoscopy around the same time ( my mom died of colon cancer last year , her mom died from it too,so we thought we better go in and get checked). My sister said it was not as bad as she thought it would be. She said the day before prep stuff was worse, not eating and drinking some yucky stuff.  Just to show how HMO's are, hers approved a colonoscopy which costs a lot more then my sigmoidoscopy. Mine would only do the sig.  Good luck dear, it won't be bad and you'll be relived to have it done with. And everyone should have them because colon cancer is very treatable when they catch it early. They say it can take 10 years for the polps to become cancerous. My mom would never get checked, even with her family history, too embarrassed. What a shame, she died at 72, had she been checked some time ago it might have added many years to her life. So encourage those in your family to get checked.

Thank you Jeanne and Carole!  From what I've read, colon cancer is truly curable in its early stages.  And, it's better to be safe (and a bit uncomfortable) than sorry!  I'm waiting now for the appointment at the hospital.  

Hi Tamara,  I've had 2 colonoscopys done.  The first one was  a precautionary one because my mom had colon cancer.  For that one I was sedated and don't remember much about it.  The worst part of the first test was the prep for it the night before.  The Go-Lytle I had to drink was  gross and it was one of the worst evening of my life.

The second one was done last year after a stool sample turned up some blood.  This time the prep wasn't as bad.  They'd changed the Go-Lytle so it was easier to get down, and maybe I knew what to expect this time.  At the hospital they got me ready for the IV that they administer the sedative in, but before they hooked it up I asked if I HAD to have it.  (I hate any kind of medication if I don't have to have it.)  They said I didn't have to, but left the IV needle in place in case I needed to have it during the test.  My doctor placed me so I was facing the monitor and I got to watch him travel through my colon.  It was a little uncomfortable, but interesting to watch.  The worst part was afterwards because your intestines are full of air and the stomach cramps are pretty bad until you can pass the air out.  Luckily I had no polyps or any problems.  The blood must have been from hemroids.

My advice on the prep drink is to be sure it is very cold.  Drink as much as you can, but as soon as your stools are clear stop.  I never drank the whole jug, only about 3/4's.

Good luck.Liz51

Ask if you can have the Fleet Prep Kit 3.  I had a colonoscopy last year and 2 barium enema's and this prep kit was used for all three test.  The drink is only 2 oz. mixed with 4 oz. of water. Get it cool, not cold, hold your breath and drink it down fast. Don't sip because the liquid is salty and yucky. Just drink it down and then take a couple of drinks of Sprite or 7-Up.  As far as the test goes, it's a piece of cake,  much easier then a barium enema.  Good luck to you and don't worry!  I know that's easier said than done  but really the test is a breeze.

Had a colonoscopy done two years ago, I agree the worst was the prep the night before, the taste of the stuff is yucky.  You get waterlogged drinking the stuff, I found it hard to drink it all, but you just have to, if you aren't TOTALLY empty, they might have to repeat the whole test and the preparation.  The test itself I found moderately uncomfortable, but you're sedated enough you just cooperate rather than fight it.  And it was over before I knew it.  And it's worth doing, no question.

I've had a lot of these over the last 12 years.  I've also had several types of prep - all unpleasant.  The "Go Lightly" - what a name! doesn't taste so bad, but you have to drink so much, so often that the total effect is not fun  I don't like the Fleet particularly, either, but it is something that we all need to have done sooner or later.

I've usually been only mildly sedated, but friends have been given drugs to make them forget everything.  I guess the thought there is to make it so you'll be more apt to come back do it again the next time.  The degree of sedation is up to the doctor, so you might want to discuss this with her first.

I have an additional problem with mine that most don't.  My colon is twisted somehow, so they have to get a few people to try to straighten it out during the test, so they can get the best readings.  You most likely won't have that, but you might want to ask the doctor before hand if you could have some extra meds, should this situation arise.

Best of luck to you!  This is a very important test, even if it is unpleasant.

Thanks for the support; I really do appreciate it.Just received a call from the MD's office...I'm going in next week for the procedure.  

This was the ABSOLUTE worst experience of my life!  Turns out I have a "wavy" colon...even  with 75 mg. demerol and 8 mg. of valium I was still wide awake the entire time.  Next time, it will be under a general anesthetic.  And to make matters more difficult, I am now awaiting the results of a bioposy. :sad:Your prayers, my dear girls, would be most appreciated.Thanks!

Hi Tamara,Darn it all!!! So sorry you had such a rough time. And Grrrrrr to the doctor for not giving you a general in the first place. Everyone I know is given a general anesthetic.I know about waiting for biopsy reports. It's so hard to wait. I will be praying for a good report for you:) At least the worst physical part is over , and  you got through it very bravely I'm proud of you .Will be anxious to hear the results which I know will be just fine. BIG HUGS, jeanne

Jeanne,thank you SO VERY MUCH for your kindness!  I truly appreciate it.  Forgot to mention, I now have to have a barium enema done, as she could not "see" all the way to the end of my "wavy" colon:angry: ...I surely don't want to ask "what next" , as I'm afraid of the response from God! :sad:But, my sister (yeah, the insensitive one) came thru with flying colors for this saga.  Her emotional support has been tremendous. :smile:  

Tamara, thinking of you as you wait for biopsy results.  I've waited for results for family members as well as myself on biopsies.  The wait is never easy.  Please let us know how everything goes.  

You're in my thoughts and prayers!!

I've had a flexible sigmoidoscopy for a change in bowel habits that is probably IBS.  It was clear and they took some biopsies and they were normal.  I've also had a barium meal for suspected ulcer and that was clear too.

But now the doctor says I need a barium enema just to make absolutely sure.  I am terrified.  The prep for the fs didn't bother me at all (except a day off work) but I found the  procedure incredibly painful, even if it was only for a few minutes.  It seemed like much longer.  The barium one means pumping air much further in and I'm terrified it will be desperately painful.

Any suggestions anyone?

I had the barium emema ions ago, and remember<br>some cramping. &nbsp;Tell your M.D. of your apprehension,<br>and ask for a mild tranquilizer to take before the<br>procedure.

Whoops. &nbsp;I meant eons, not ions.

Hi Fairyhedgehog,I had that procedure done about 3 years ago. I was scared to death and going thru peri. The nurse who assisted the technition was wonderful. It was actually not painful. It was uncomfortable at times. If I hadn't been so nervous it wouldn't have been so bad. If I had to do it again, it wouldn't really bother me that much now that I know what to expect.Just try to relax. It makes the whole thing go by faster. Hugs,Suzie

I've  had 5 colonoscopies and while I'd love to try a prep that requires drinking less liquid, my gastro doc says that the Golytely (gallon jug of liquid) does the best job of cleansing the colon. But he lets me start the prep earlier,  at noon  or  so the day before instead of the evening hours.  That way I don't get nauseous from having to drink so much so fast.  I then drink a glass every 20 minutes to half an hour. After slugging down each glass, I rinse my mouth with 7-Up or Sprite and it immediately takes away the nasty taste that always made me gag.  Really helped.  By late evening, I'm usually through and can get a good night's sleep.  Some tips:  Have the liquid cool but not cold.  If  it's too cold, it can give some folks a stomach ache, and who needs that?  Keep a good book or some magazines (or TV) near the bathroom to pass the time.  Schedule your colonoscopy  early in the morning so you don't have to get so hungry the day of the test.  I always ask to be knocked out during the procedure. The doctor just says, "Okay, good night, and I'm off to LALA Land. I wake up and it's over. Works for me. Then I can go out for a good breakfast, which really helps get rid of the excess air in the colon.  Not so bad, really, and thank goodness they can check us for cancer and other problems, isn't it?

&nbsp; &nbsp; Golytely, I told my gastroenterologist the person<br>who coined that name must have had sense of<br>humor. &nbsp;He told me he met him and he most<br>certainly does.

I always thought that name Golytely was a real hoot, too.  And they make that stuff with different flavors.  All of them make me gag, but I know it's for a good cause.  Both of my parents and an aunt had colon cancer and two surgeries each, so I'm in a very high risk category.

The first time I had this done, they said I could have Jello as a liquid - I've since found that drinking all this stuff keeps me from wanting to eat at all.  Anyway, I made the mistake of making cherry jello.  I was scared to death when it all came out a little later as red liquid.  I have never again made that mistake!

I've also never been knocked out for this test, just a bit tranquilized.  The first time I remember watching the video and being entranced by these interesting mushroom-looking things and asking about them.  Turned out they were polyps before they were removed.

This doctor must think I'm a real nutcase LOL

Deffinately not looking forward to my 3rd colonoscopy.  Last one I had was 3 yrs ago I believe. The prep is the worst of it all.

I feel for all of us that have to go through this too.

Clear liquids, Mary O. &nbsp;That must of been scary!!<br>With Ulcrerative Colitis blood wouldn't freak me<br>out. &nbsp;The prep is the pits, but the test is the<br>&quot;gold standard,&quot; for colon cancer detection.<br>If a wussy girl like me can handle 8 of these,<br>any woman can.

I made it clear to my GI, that I "WON'T" drink the Colyte ever again....for the prep.  He assured me he'd give me somethin else for the prep.  Gotta make that apt soon, ick...shiver

I went for my yearly physical yesterday and everything was good. Thank Goodness. I have to go back next week for my blood work. Anyway at the end of the visit my dr said "oh you turned 50 this year I would like you to have a colonoscopy done. I wasn't thrilled. Has anyone had one. I heard drinking the stuff the day before is worse than the procedure.. I haven't made the appt. yet but i will. Any thoughts. thanks.Pudge

I've had about 8 or so colonoscopies over the last few years - I'm in a very high risk category.

Drinking the stuff is the worst part, but it only takes a couple hours - and is better than finding out you have cancer!

&nbsp; &nbsp; I'm have Ulcerative Colitis and have had countless<br>colonoscopies. &nbsp;As Mary said, the worst part is the <br>prep. &nbsp;You'll likely be pretty well medicated to<br>alleviate the discomfort. &nbsp;The test is the Gold Standard<br>for the prevention of colon cancer!

Whoops!! &nbsp;I meant the Gold Standard for the<br>detection of colon cancer.

It's no picnic, but it's not as bad as you're probably thinking.  I agree, the prep is the worst part - it seems like different doctors have you drink different products, but they all have the same effect - just make sure you're at home for the evening!  The test itself I found somewhat uncomfortable, but you're doped up just enough you'll simply cooperate with what they do, and before you know it it's all over and you're resting.  It's well worth it, esp. if you get a clean bill of health.  

So does the risk increase with age? i just turned 50 in Feb. so I guess i shouldn't put it off..I really am dreading it but I always stay on top of health stuff so I am sure I will have make the appt. soon.thanks.Pudge

Hi Pudge...

I have been told by more than one doctor that we should start having these tests done at the age of 50.  I am 54 now, and every year since I turned 50, at my annual exam, I am pretty much nagged by the doctor about getting it.  I take the order and trash it because of what my younger sister has told me about the discomfort and hassle of the prep procedure.

By this time, I realize how important it is... that it can detect any problems early, thus probably save one's life.   Still, I keep putting it off, which is really a dumb thing for me to do, since my grandfather died of colon cancer.   I also worry because of the polyps the GYN found and removed from my uterus... if I got some there, I could them them in other places, ya know?  

I found a place on the internet that explains the procedure and discusses new technology, including maybe not having to drink the awful stuff beforehand, but I don't remember the address now.  If I can find it, I will let you know.  

I sure wish I could get up the courage to have it done, as I know I really need to.  :(  

You should have it done, Vickie. Can't be any worse than the things we had to go through to have kids, now can it?!

(Biting fingernails)... yessssssssss.  

Hi Pudge...

I found the website that gives information about colonoscopies, but I think it is a commercial website, so I can't post the address here.  The name of the company is Vital Imaging.  Email me if you would like the web address.  

&nbsp; &nbsp; My gastroenterologist felt the virtual colonoscopy<br>wouldn't be as effective for me personally. &nbsp;He said it's<br>impressive to watch, but felt it wasn't as wonderful as<br>the media hype. &nbsp;<br> &nbsp; &nbsp; In the past 20 years, I've had close to 10<br>colonscopies. Childbirth was much more prolonged<br>and painful. &nbsp;I'm generally given Versed and Fentanyl<br>during the procedure, which work well. &nbsp;It sure beats<br>death from colon cancer!! &nbsp; If you're really apprehensive<br>about the test you could ask for a tranquilizer to take<br>at bedtime, &nbsp;the night of the prep., and before the<br>procedure. &nbsp;Colonscopies save lives!!<br>

I know that I will have the test. I would rather than not. And as far as worse than the pain of childbirth I am sure it can't be.. Although I never had heavy labor, I did have 3 c-sections. So if I could go through those . I am sure I can have a colonoscopy right???????? LOLthanks Pudge

Pudge,One month on and only just noticed your posts.Have you had the colonoscopy yet?My husband is going in hospital today for removal of  PRE-cancerous growth of the bowel.  It was only by having a colonoscopy that this was detected. If left another few years it would have been a different story than it is today. Anyway, if you have had the test, well done. If not........do it!!Hope this has helped someone today.jennimarie.x

Haven't made the appt. yet, but i plan on soon. This is a test that i plan on having. so many people that I talk to are "afraid" to have it done. But i will. Pudge

Pudge,<br> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;I've had toothaches that were 100 times more<br>painful than any colonoscopy. &nbsp;During the test<br>you are under &quot;conscious sedation,&quot; which<br>alleviates most of the discomfort. &nbsp;My doc uses<br>Fentanyl for pain and Versed for sedation. &nbsp;I've<br>had more misery from a panic attack than a<br>colonoscopy. &nbsp;I&quot;m a baby!! &nbsp;Although the idea of<br>a colonoscopy can be disconcerting, it's over in<br>a flash and &nbsp;is the &quot;gold standard,&quot; for detecting<br>colon cancer. &nbsp;You can do it!!! &nbsp;<br>

Just wanted to let everyone know I survived my colonoscopy on Jan 3.   Terrified is an understatement since my father died of colon cancer at 60.  One thing I would add to what others have said is the prep I had to drink Fleet Phosopho-soda is majorly salty.  I was still smelling and tasting it along with the room the procedure was done in which I can only imagine was the smell of the anesthetic and pain meds I was given until today(about 48 hrs).  I don't care for salt so am likely more sensitive to it.   I was drinking lots of water and bathing extra, but guess it just has to work itself out of your system. That and the fear were definitely the only things that  made it different from lots of lab procedures I have had.  It literally took 15 minutes for the procedure.  I was in the outpatient room 1 hr before; they like to have you ready on time even if the dr is behind. LOL   Then back there for another hour afterwards.   There were no polyps or areas to be biopsied which is a good feeling not to have to wait for results.  The dr did find I have mild diveritculosis and said that was very common.  He gave me a pamphlet explaining it, but no dietary restrictions.  I however have known for the last few years that peanuts and nuts bother me so now I have an explanation of why.  The irony is I was sent because of my father's history and being 51, but ended up having my mother's history of diverticulosis.   LOL   If you have your orders for a colonoscopy, make the appointment.  ChrisCarol's, Mary O's, and Joannaran2's advice were very helpful and accurate.   Who is next?              ~Helen

Hi Ladies,

I had my first colonoscopy in 1992 and was dx'd with Ulceritive Colitis, and several benign polyps were found and removed. In 1995 I had my second colonoscopy  in which my d'x was changed to Microscopic Colitis, which can only be detected via biopsies. The prep is deffinately worse than the procedure!   I am due this year for my 3rd one, and am dreading the prep as usual.  Unpleasant as it is, this is the best way to detect colon cancer .  It kinda rates up there with our yearly paps and mammograms.....no picnic, but important testing to rule out cancer and keep on top of other gastrointestional problems.

Good Luck to anyone having to go through this!

My colonoscopy is scheduled for Dec. 8th.....UGH......I am not looking forward to i but I am actually glad i am finally going to get it over with. My dr. suggested i take the pills as the prep instead of drinking that awful liquid. Hasn anyone had good luck with the pills? pudge

Yeah, had my colonoscopy today!!!!!!!! All is well. She said everything looked fine but because of my scar tissue from 3 C-sections, she couldn't get into one area...She suggested i have a Barium Enema just to be sure. But she told me I did great and she would see me in 10 years. What a nice feeing to have it over with......bride52

Yeah, had my colonoscopy today!!!!!!!! All is well. She said everything looked fine but because of my scar tissue from 3 C-sections, she couldn't get into one area...She suggested i have a Barium Enema just to be sure. But she told me I did great and she would see me in 10 years. What a nice feeing to have it over with......bride527

Yeah, had my colonoscopy today!!!!!!!! All is well. She said everything looked fine but because of my scar tissue from 3 C-sections, she couldn't get into one area...She suggested i have a Barium Enema just to be sure. But she told me I did great and she would see me in 10 years. What a nice feeing to have it over with......Pudge

Sorry i didn't realize i hit "send" twice......must be the medication left in me from this morning........LOL LOL Pudge

GOOD JOB PUDGE!!! I'm sooo glad your test came back fine!! Whew- what a relief!!

Hi! to anyone who is about to have this done. I had this done 1/04. It was a piece of cake. The word itself sounds scary. But the nurse made me feel good. She said you will go to sleep and when you wake up it would be like 15 min. She was right, no pain. I had two polyps which he removed at age 50, and my children when they turn that age 40 will have to get it done. The doctor told me every three years after age 50 you should have this done. If there are polyps the doctor can remove them before it turns to cancer. And what's great about this for me I do not have all that gas I had for years:)

Acquar That's great news and glad to hear that everything is okay. My husband (55) just had his and I am going to schedule one shortly (I just turned 50). I'm not concerned about the procedure itself. Unfortunately my fear is based on the big WHAT IF they find something. I guess it's better to know than not! Take care, EJ