<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

Don't be afraid of the procedure, you'll only feel the pinch/pain when
they're inserting the IV.  Didn't your doctor tell you what to buy and
use for the 'clean out'?  Or talk to the pharmacist about the product to
use.  There are a number of them.  I use a small bottle to be mixed with
water, drink in 2 doses several hours apart.  Sorry I can't remember the
name.  I believe they are all gf.   More importantly, be sure to have a
lot of clear liquids on hand at home.

  Warm clear chicken broth is my
favorite (Use Shelton's brand or Pacific free-range organic), clear
apple juice or white grape juice, plenty of spring water, lemon jello,
or any other clear liquid you like.  You'll want to stay home near the
bathroom, rest on the couch, and take it easy.  There's a little
cramping at times.  Everyone hates it but it's a necessary evil, and
just get through it for a couple of days.  Afterwards, you sleep off the
anesthesia and have a nice meal planned/shopped for and/or ready and
you'll be fine.  It's more about logistics and good preparations.

I wish I could remember the name of the stuff I got when I had my
colonoscopy in June, but I just checked with the doctor and the
pharmacist that it was GF and it was no problem.  The hardest part (for
me) was having to drink that huge jug of not great tasting stuff and
being pretty much tied to the bathroom for a few hours the night
before... not horrible, just uncomfortable and a nuisance.  By the time
of the colonoscopy the meds I got were fine.  Unless you have a problem
with getting an IV (if that's the case, try closing your eyes, breathing
deeply, and praying/meditating), the meds themselves just make you feel
relaxed and sleepy.  When you wake up, you'll be a little out of it...
that's why you'll need someone to drive you home and you might feel like
napping afterwards.


I'm sure everyone from this list serve who responds will tell you the same
thing...relax...it's a very quick and painless procedure.  I felt like the
entire thing lasted about 2 seconds!  The "best" part of the procedure is
the prep, just stay near the bathroom after you start the prep.  You will be
fine it is a very easy test.

Also,  I just did one (colonoscopy) , and did pills.  Much easier than the
drink.  I just took the pills w/ water.

 I wasn't given anything to drink for my colonoscopy.  I agree with you re
the anesthetic.

The only suggestion I can make is that you get your procedure done where
they do these on a regular basis. When people have lots of experience, this
is a good thing.  I had no difficulties, no pain, and no after effects
except for the few hours it took for the anesthesia to totally wear off.

Colonoscopy is far less then for other types of surgeries and after you
"wake up" it is much easier on you. So, if you've ever been "put under"
before, then you might have something to compare the colonoscopy to. But, if
not, then... well, I guess you'll find out that it isn't all that bad. Or,
at least it wasn't for me.

he anesthetic does not knock you totally out, but forget about the rest of
the day being useful.

Drink lots of liquids, but you will still be dehydrated. The IV they give
you prior to the procedure will make you feel better. Not because of the
drugs but because of the glucose.


I had one this summer and it was a breeze.  By far the worst part is
the prep and drinking all of the fluid.  I was given
Half-Lytely, and I believe the Go-Lytely is GF too.  Just mention it
to the nursing staff or your gastro person and they
will take care of it.  Most are very well educated on the subject.

Please tell the doctor doing the procedure that you have concerns about the
drugs.  There is more than one combination that they can use.  If necessary
they'll use an anesthesiologist to administer the drugs.  Please tell them
any specific reactions you have had and ask which specific drugs they plan
to use.  Please don't think you can do it drug free, it is a hard procedure
for the drs. to do without major muscle relaxation on you part.

I have had two colonoscopies and two EGD with no meds. The EGD takes less
than 10 minutes even with biopsy. The scope about 15. Just expell gas when
you start to cramp (it does not smell- there is nothing there) and it is
more comfortable. I was VERY uncomfortable for less than 15 seconds and kind
of uncomfortable for less than a minute during the whole proceedure both
times. My husband decided that since I didn't "go to sleep" he wouldn't
either. He said it was no big deal. The US is one of the few countries that
do the sedation. I agree, I am more afraid of the meds

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