Fear of colonoscopy

Hi I'm 26, 

 

I've been experiencing stomach and back pain and change in bowel movements for the last 3 weeks I now have blood in my stools. I have also lost a little weight recently, The doctor has put me on an urgent pathway for a colonoscopy but I'm so scared to get it as I've seen so many horror stories of how horrific the procedure is. I'm also so scared of the results. 
 

thanks 

  • Hi

    I don't know what you heard but I did have a colonoscopy and I didn't think was that horrific. It is not pleasant and it is not routine for sure but do not be scared and follow your doctor's suggestion. 

  • I too have had a colonoscopy and didn't find it a problem at all. Yes it's uncomfortable and not particularly nice but it's better than wondering what's going on and the anxiety of wondering if it's anything to be worried about.  I've had every oscopy you can have.. I know that any procedure is nerve wracking but they are all done for a reason.. good luck, it honestly sounds worse than it really is.. 

  • Hi

    I now have to have them yearly...

    They saved my life.... twice

    so although a little unpleasant they have to be done to put your mind at rest.

    Ask to be sedated so you aren't actually asleep but you don't really care as you are sleepy. Also I have gas & air.

    They may take biopsies while they are in there but you don't feel anything and don't worry if they do this it's pretty routine.

    You will probably get your results on the day.

    Other things can cause your symptoms that are less serious.

    Don't look things up on the internet, it will fill your head with alsorts of horror stories.

    Let us know how you get on.

  • Thank you, I've just seen a few things on this page saying how painful it is and how people have had kids and they would rather do that again than this procedure. I don't have a very high pain thresh hold and I suffer really bad with anxiety it's all just a bit much to take in :(

  • All I felt during my colonoscopy was some trapped wind. The prep was the worst part.

    Do keep in mind that those who have bad experiences are more likely to post online about it.

  • Thank you! I'm hoping I just feel the same, I'm so nervous. 

  • Thank you! I will keep you updated. Don't have a date for the procedure as of yet! My dr has put me on the urgent pathway so hoping I hear rather soon. I think it's the waiting that's the worst as it's making me over analise everything for sure