Colonoscopy experience

Hi

I would like to take the time to put other peoples mind at rest because I for one was extermely anxious and worried prior to the procedure. I have a low pain threshold and by nature I worry, I really need not have as the procedure was straight forward and pain free.

I made the mistake of internet research and forum surfing beforehand, I found that only peoples negative experiences stuck in my mind.

I am a 49 year old male with pain in my lower abdomin area which warranted a colonoscopy yesterday for further investiagtion. I will keep things short, the Moviprep was taken at 5.00 pm the day before as I was due for a morning procedure. I was advised to use Bepanthen nappy care ointment before taking the solution (Avaiable from Boots chemist) this barrier cream really helped me.

I diluted the Moviprep with orange cordial which made it easily palatable. After approximately an hour there were the pre-empted visits to the toilet totatalling 20 !!! The barrier cream worked and there were no rashes or other issues.

I was sedated before the colonoscopy, even so it took some time before I became drowsey and I can remember watching the screen and gently feeling the scope inside, there was no pain or discomfort at. The next thing I remember is waking up in bed. 

It really was as simple as that, I did wake up with a few stomach cramps that were resolved by taking two wind relief tablets that I had pre-purchased in Boots.

I have had a few operations before and this was without doubt the most straight foreward one of all. 

I would have no anxiety or cocerns if I was required to have another procedure in the future.

Best wishes

Anthony

  • A warm welcome to Cancer Chat, Anthony.

    Thank you for sharing your colonoscopy experience with us. I'm sure your words will be very reassuring to our members here who are about to go through the same experience and don't know what to expect.

    And once you know more about your test results, please come back to give us an update, we're keeping our fingers crossed it will show nothing sinister.

    With best wishes,

    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator

  •  

    Thank you so much for posting the details of your experience. (I too have a low pain threshold and I panic easily, so your description of events is indeed reassuring.)

    I received a letter informing me that I'd need a colonoscopy following a routine bowel cancer screening test - the sort that are sent out to OAPs like me every couple of years. Receiving the news that a colonoscopy was needed was the very last thing I expected; and my anxiety level has been in melt-down ever since.

    Anyway, I hope all goes well for you. Best wishes.