Handhold/advice - Colonoscopy needed after sigmoidoscopy

[babachic]

I have had abdominal pains (left side), constant fatigue and blood in my stool for about 5-6 months now. Q-fit test was done a few weeks ago and showed a result of 51 (which the doctor said was quite high?), bloods show slight iron deficiency but my calprotectin test came back normal.

My doctor referred me for an urgent scope and this morning I had a flexible sigmoidoscopy. I really struggled with it, cried my way through the procedure, it was very painful for me they didn't find anything during this and said because they were concerned about the positive fit test, I now need a full colonoscopy with sedation.

Has anyone else experienced this? I feel embarrassed about being so upset during the flexi test today but also even more worried that I'm no further forward after it.

Also, the pain in my stomach is really bad following today's procedure, enough to make me double up in pain. Any tips on easing?

Just looking for anyone who has experienced similar or is going through the same/a hand hold

Hello. I can't help with the specifics of your situation re diagnosis but I have had millions (well about 20) colonoscopy procedures over the years, having had colitis and crohns for 30 years. It's not that bad, but not pleasant.

They give sedation and pain killers to help with any discomfort so hopefully better than your last experience. Deep breathing and gas and air will help too. You get some strong laxatives to take in the days beforehand to clean the bowel. My advice: apply sudocrem to you bum before you take the potions as you can end up with a very sore bum otherwise

The important thing is to get to a diagnosis as quickly as possible and the colonoscopy itself Is fairly quick.

I really feel for you as this is scary, daunting and not something to relish. However the medics have seen it all before and wouldn't do it if it weren't needed. I really hope you get a clear diagnosis quickly and start your treatment.

Forgot to say, take painkillers (paracetamol) for today's pains, fart if you can (they sometimes pump air into the Bowel which can get trapped). Hot water bottle too. Peppermint tea too. And a few yoga stretches (lie on back with cushion under your bum with legs up the wall or child's pose to let your stomach hang down and the farts to escape (so elegant!)

That said if it's too much, call 111 as severe pain after a sigmoidoscopy is not normal. You should have been given a leaflet / guidance after today's procedure?