I had my first colonoscopy before Xmas, and I've lived to tell about it! Read the description of what to expect on the Crohn's and Colitis Board; it will help you. Here are some of my tips, though.
1) Expect to be nervous. It's okay if you're freaked out! But don't get so upset you make the whole thing worse!
2) Have plenty of chicken broth on hand for the liquid diet day. It will help you keep your energy up.
3) Try to get rid of kids or spouse on the actual day of "evacuation;" it helped for me not to have to tend to my son and to just lay on the couch and do nothing that day. I was tired and worn out, and didn't want to have to deal with regular stuff.
4) Have someone to call for help if you need gatorade or other supplies.
5) CALL YOUR DOCTOR duirng the "prep" if you are scared or nervous or worried. The receptionist and nurses have heard it all and will be completely wonderful to you.
6) Ask tons of questions when you get to the hospital if you are nervous. The nurse who got me ready for the procedure was so wonderful and honest. It was really calming for me to have her take the time to answer silly questions and just reassure me about everything. The aneasthesiologist was fantastic, too. Knowing what would be happening made me feel so much better.
7) Take it easy after the colonoscopy. I was still dopey the next day, and it helped to have friends offer to run errands and babysit and cook for me. It was great. Ask for help if you can!
8) Know that when it is over, you will be glad to know the results because your doctor will be able to decide on a course of action for you.
I had a bad, bad time with the prep, but I lived through it. I was terrified of the whole thing, but found out that it can be tolerated. Just take it easy if you can and get help from family and friends. Baby yourself a bit if the drugs affect you more than other folks...I know my dad and mom where completely normal the day after their procedures, but I felt dopey and sleepy for a few days. Everyone is different!
Good luck!
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