Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

I had a colonoscopy (I am over 50) when my symptoms became so severe (cramps, D, gas, pain, weight loss) that my GI and my internist thought it was prudent. The prep was irritating and uncomfortable because of the cramping and pain but the procedure was nothing. My prep was like the others that have responded but my GI suggested I sip either Ginger Ale or 7-up all day the day before. I chose Ginger Ale. The preparation I had to drink (like thick salt water) was pretty gross but if you use a funnel and put it in a water bottle you can gulp it better and it seemed to go down better for me. I had it at 8:00 in the morning and was home by 10:00--a little dizzy and hungry but home. I recovered quickly and worked the next day with no problem. The real benefit for me was that during the procedure my descending colon spasmed the entire time. I even have color pictures the doctor made. He told me that the colonoscopy allowed him to correctly diagnose my condition as "spastic colon" or "IBS". He also found and removed two polyps that could have led to colon cancer later on. I also had an abdominal ultrasound, blood work, stool specimen and an abdominal and pelvic CT just to make sure. All of it came back normal. I will say that I have had much greater peace of mind after all the tests. BTW -- these tests where all done last spring and early summer. I have been on Heather's diet since July and am stable for the first time in over a year. I even made it through Thanksgiving without incident. My family is so happy and relieved and I am too.

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IBS-D, Gas & Bloating

Barbara50

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