So I’ve had to have a few various colonoscopies in the past few years. Typically, this is something men don’t have to worry about until they’re past 50, and they should be given about every 10 years to look for signs of colon cancer. Unfortunately, I have some medical family history that means I’ve had to have them in my 40s, about every 5 years.
If you’ve ever had one, or will have one, some insight as to what you’re about to experience. Interestingly, the procedure itself is nearly a non-event, and is typically done on an out patient basis. I did have to go to a medical center, strip and put on a gown, get an IV… the whole deal. There is anesthesia. They said I’d be conscious, but both times, I basically fell asleep, heard voices, then just woke up remembering nothing and not in any pain. (Individual experiences vary, of course.) I was able to go home immediately, although you do have to arrange a ride home, as you’ll still be groggy. I was extremely drowsy the entire day, and they warned of minor constipation (which I didn’t actually experience), but was otherwise fine. Really, the recovery was more for the anesthesia than the procedure itself.
The miserable part is the day before–the prep. Obviously go with what your doctor tells you, but in general, you must fast, eating no solid foods whatsoever. Only clear or yellow liquids, so just things like clear soda, apple juice, white grape juice, lemon/pineapple jello, or chicken broth. Gatorade and/or Popsicles are okay, but not anything red, blue, or purple. Coffee is also fine, as long as there is no creamer (no milk or diary). My doctor said dark sodas like Coke were okay, but I’ve seen other sites that warn against it, so consult your physician if you have a question.
That’s already pretty miserable, but the worst part is in the evening, you have to begin taking a gallon’s worth of liquid laxative, ingesting about 8 oz every 15-20 minutes for 5 hours. It doesn’t taste great (though it could be worse). I chased it down with the white grape juice, but I’ve heard since you can mix some lemonade Crystal Light with the mix, (mine came in a gallon sized jug with a power inside, which you were to mix with water… so you can easily add some powered crystal light as well), which I’ll try next time.
In any case, a small polyp was found (as was the last time), but it was so small there’s no danger yet. But thought I’d let you all know what I’ve had to endure. It’s worth it in the long run for the sake of your health.
