Colonoscopy on Saturday

Hi everyone, I have a colonoscopy on Saturday which I am dreading. I absolutely hate needles so much I fainted during a blood test before. I've read so many horror stories about the process on these forums and I am dreading not being about to eat for 24 hours. Not eating for a couple of hours gives me serious discomfort, I can't imagine a whole 24, I doubt I'll be able to sleep the night before especially with the hunger.

I feel like I my colonoscopy is unwarranted now, I'm not as worried about the results now, although it does still frighten me a little. It all started with abdominal pain and flat stool. I informed my doctor who got me to do tests, a calprotecin test which is negative, a blood test which is all clear and a FIT test which was positive at 40. I did have anal fissures at the time and constant nose bleeds since my nose was sore and cracked, my nose is healed now though. Since the FIT was positive I have to do the colonoscopy. Since informing my doctor I haven't gave any pains since the week after, I informed him during November. I also don't have flat stools anymore, they have really thickened up and are proper shape and colour. I'm 22 if that means anything.

Sorry for all of this im just really freaking out about this procedure, on top of it I feel bad that im most likely wasting the NHS time and money during the pandemic. I want to force my self to do it but I really don't know how I will cope once the time actually comes. Any advice and experiences I would be greatfulmto hear. Thanks everyone.

  • I've been in your position and was also somewhat freaked out. The procedure itself was fine. I didn't even feel anything and actually walked home afterwards (tried to call a taxi and couldn't find one available so just walked home). The prep wasn't pleasant but it was doable. And the not eating isn't as bad as you might think. I was told I could drink Lucozade, so sort of survived on that.

    I don't think you are wasting the NHS's time and money. Even if there is nothing wrong, which sounds probable, confirming that is worthwhile. And if there is a problem, it wll allow them to find out what it is and sort it. At 22, cancer would be unlikely and even more so, given that your symptoms have improved so much, so I wouldn't really worry about that, but there are still lots of things that could have caused your pains and the FIT results and some would benefit from some form of treatment.

  • I too have been in your situation. Something that might help is to think: how would I feel if I didn't have it done? The peace of mind from an "all clear" is priceless, trust me. Every time I've not had some bit of investigation done (only a couple of times) I've regretted it. You are not wasting anyones time.

  • Hi,

    I definitely agree that having it done is better than not.Looks like everything is improving so its less reasons to stress,just have it done and u will have peace of mind.Its good that u were not discouraged or ignored especially being at this age.Whatever you decide,make sure you feel happy with it.