Excruciating colonoscopy

I'm so glad I found this, I had a colonoscopy today and barely got through the bowel prep but then thought as others did here that the actual procedure would be a breeze I was so wrong! I was relaxed and thought everything was fine until I asked if the sedation had been administered- it had but I felt far from sedated! The procedure started and shortly afterwards I felt searing pain that didn't stop, I squeezed the nurses hand so tight and was screaming in pain. I also had gas and air and thought they would kick in soon but they didn't the pain went on. The doctor said to the nurse something about more painkillers and sedation but the nurse said my blood pressure was too low. I asked her how far in his was and she said not much at all the doctor then decided to abort the procedure and the nurse said I will have to have a ct scan. I went to the recovery area and laid there thinking I had failed and it was my fault all that dreadful prep for nothing I wanted to cry. A nurse came in with a piece of paper stating that a limited area of the colon was visualised as you found the procedure too painful to complete. I asked the nurse why and she just confirmed what was in writing then I went home. Why had this happened? Why do some people react differently to the sedation and pain medication as I felt I hadn't even been given anything. Why do some people say they experience a few cramps but I had searing unbearable pain? Surely as everyone has said they should offer anaesthesia? I am scarred by the whole experience and feel let down by the nhs for not informing me and also for not having a back up method resulting in a waste of time and awful experience.

  • Oh my word this sounds terrible for you so sending you virtual hugs. I got told today that i am having to go for one myself in the next 2 weeks, really not thrilled at the thought at all. it is a very daunting procedure, it was not your fault at all, you are supposed to be at ease. Good luck with the ct scan and take care x

  • Thank you for your lovely reply. Bless your heart, I really hope your colonoscopy goes well. I think there were many factors that added to the complications, my colon has been inflamed and painful for months so the prep aggravated it even more. They said my colon was narrow so it may have contributed to the pain and my blood pressure was low so they couldn't administer any more pain medication or sedation. I believe without these issues yours will be a lot easier. I'm on a 2 week referral for a ct colonoscopy this still includes the prep but isn't invasive. Do let me know how yours goes. Sending you hugs and strength you got this!