I am going to be down for the count for a couple of days. We have a history of colorectal cancer in our family, so I get regular colonoscopies every three years. I think this time it may have actually been five years since my last one. The procedure itself isn't a big deal. It is the preparation for the procedure that is a bit of an ordeal.
If you haven't had this particular medical procedure, to prep for it, you have to drink a very unpleasant concoction that cleans out your lower intestinal tract. Once you are clean as a whistle, you go in to the surgicenter and get a general anesthesia that knocks you right out while the doctor performs the test with an instrument called a colonoscope. It is a long flexible tube with a camera attached to it that can help the doctor locate any little polyps or things that should not be in your colon.
In the past, when I have gone into the surgical suite, I've been told to count backwards from 10 while the anesthesia is being administered. I don't think I have ever even gotten to 8. The next thing I know, I am waking up in the recovery room and being sent home. So, it is over in a flash.
The thing is, all I do the rest of that day is sleep. So you won't be seeing any quilty posts from me for a few days while we travel to the Bay Area and back and I recover from the anesthesia.
If you have been putting off having this important diagnostic test, don't delay any further. It is vital to have yourself checked out regularly to avoid any serious health issues that could be brewing. I complain about having to drink the prep concoction, but it is a small price to pay when you consider the alternative.
Wish me well and I'll see you on the other side!
20 Responses
Thank you for doing this. The world needs people like you.
I just had my first one in march and I was pretty nervous about it. Yes, the prep was the worst for sure. I was afraid the scope would puncture my colon and I would die. They found 4 polyps so have to go back every 3 years now. The best part was eating at Cracker Barrel afterwards 😻!
Wishing you the very best! I too have a family history similar to yours and the prep is yucky BUT you are so right! preventative diagnostic testing is SO important. Pls pls pls everyone take those important steps!!! Take care of yourself and we’ll be here when you’re ready to post again! 🥰
Good luck! It’s so unpleasant, but definitely a small price to pay.
Same, Nicole! I lost my Dad when he was only 49 to colon cancer. On the three year schedule myself. I always laugh when they give you the “Milk of Amnesia” drug (it’s white) they say “Don’t make any big decisions in the next day or so!” So you better stay out of the sewing room-haha! Break a leg, baby!
I also go every three years, beginning at age 42. I had a big polyp. I agree, the prep is bad but I can proudly say that my doctor commented on my chart that I did a really good prep last time! Take care, see you in a couple of days.
I always need an extra day of prep because I have IBS and things move slowly. But as you all say: it’s worth it.
Wishing you well on your colonoscopy. You are right – the prep is the hard part! Looking forward to hearing from you after your procedure.
I’ll be praying for an easier prep and good results.
I always ask my doctor for a strong anti-nauseau pill to use when taking the prep ickiness, otherwise I throw up all night. The anti-nauseau pill works wonders.
Thinking good thoughts for you, Nicole – the prep is the worst part.
I have had that procedure a number of times. You are correct…it is the prep that is the unpleasant part. I hope you get a good report!
i’ve got the prep down to an artform. i mix the powder (no flavoring) at 1/4 strength so that i don’t have to drink as much (its so much easier to gulp down a few sips as opposed to a full glass), then follow with water to equal the standard dosage.. and drink lots more for good measure. i also use diaper cream or vaseline to coat my rump. easy-peasy.
Good for you! I don’t mess around with any preventive tests. If I’m due, I go. That stuff you have to drink is so nasty. I lived on popsicles and chicken broth(yuck).
I gave anesthesia for 38 years (the last 19 years at Mayo Clinic Arizona) and will give you my two cents for colonoscopy prep. For a day or two BEFORE you are supposed to start the prep, eat very lightly (yogurt, ice cream, fluids, soups or broths). Stay away from meat, bulky vegetables or anything with lots of fiber. By having less in your GI tract, once you start the prep, you will clean out to clear fluid (sometimes with flecks) much quicker and thereby, reduce the amount you have to drink. You do not need to drink the entire quantity of GoLitely. You need to drink it until you are passing mostly clear fluid. And by the way, general anesthesia is VERY rarely used…we do give twilight anesthesia with Propofol and sometimes supplement it with Versed and Fentanyl (yes, we do use Fentanyl). Everyone always thinks they get a general anesthetic because they are asleep, but it is 99% of the time, a heavy sedation. We do not typically put anything in your airway and have you breathing on your own . Hope this helps you navigate your prep and that your results from the colonoscopy are negative!
Thanks for taking care of yourself. Often, we put our own health on hold while we care for family members. With your husband doing well now, it your turn to get some care. Happy to hear it. I hope all the sleep will bring you lots of pep after you recover. Good luck!
Thank you Patty for the excellent supplemental advice – I was told the same thing before my last go at colonoscopy and it made things so much easier. Also jello made with non fat yogurt instead of water is permissible the first day of the prep period and seems to go down, stay down and be filling for me.
I spent a summer sitting with a friend in hospice care with a colon cancer that wasn’t caught in time. Believe me, frequent colonoscopy is a small inconvenience in comparison.
Ceci
You know the drill. And, Patty certainly provided some helpful information above! We’ll all be right here waiting for you! 💕
Mayo Rochester was doing a study a few years ago where people who volunteered/wanted, were awake for the colonoscopy procedure. I talked to a few who went that route and they thought it was interesting to watch the monitor screen and converse with the staff.
My last colonoscopy, the anesthesiologist sent me to my GP, who send me to a sleep clinic. I do not have typical sleep apnea, I do not stop breathing, but my oxygen level drops. I love my sleep machine, it has improved the quality of my sleep and my arthritis pain level.
I’m so glad you talk about health issues and the medical procedures. Many people put off going to the doctor and having things checked out. So a big thanks to you and good luck!