And it's over

[crowdog66]

I'm back home after the flexible sigmoidoscopy, which was actually pushed back two hours because the physician scheduled to do it got delayed on his hospital rounds. I'm still quite sore and crampy, but that's getting better as the air they pumped in continues to make its exit.

I had no idea how unpleasant it was going to be, and it was fairly bad. At times the pain and cramping was almost unbearable; if George hadn't been there holding my hand and keeping me distracted with comic industry shop-talk, I'm sure I would have yelled: "Take it OUT! Take it out NOW!" at two separate points. Fortunately the doctor was able to complete the procedure in under five minutes, and had good news at the end of it: my sigmoid colon is clean as a whistle. No polyps, no hemorrhoids, nothing unusual at all. There is a slight external fissure in the anal region that is probably the source of the bleeding, and he prescribed a cream for that. In early January he'll see me again to make sure that the fissure has healed completely.

And here are two tips: 1) Dulcolax tablets don't always prompt a bowel movement, and 2) Fleet enemas work like a CHARM.

So, the upshot: my sigmoid colon is clear and healthy. It wasn't a day at the spa, that's for sure, but I'm glad I had it done because now I have peace of mind.

Comments

[elaryn.livejournal.com]

I'm glad your news was good news! *hugs* My husband wil be getting one of those in the very near future. You're both a lot braver than I am. The very idea makes my skin crawl.

George ought to take you somewhere nice, just to make up for that nastiness. ;-) *more hugs*

[crowdog66.livejournal.com]

I can tell your hubby that while it's unpleasant, it IS over fairly quickly. Also, some people have less discomfort than I experienced, so his might be a breeze.

After we were through at the clinic, George and I went to a nearby Perkins restaurant and had a nice big lunch (since I hadn't eaten since 6 pm the night before). I had their pot roast dinner with green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy, and a Caesar salad.

So we did go somewhere nice, and indeed, it was to make up for the nastiness. :-)

[elaryn.livejournal.com]

Mmm...sounds yummy (the meal, that is).

I have no idea how it will be for Neil. I'm not even sure if I'll be able to accompany him to the appointment. This sort of thing is one of my worst medical phobias, though I will ask him if he wants me there.

Ah well...glad yours came out okay.