Colonoscopy unsuccessful due to diverticulitis, next step.

Posted by dennisreturnit @dennisreturnit, Jan 3 12:47pm

Just had a recent attempt at a colonoscopy and unable to view more than 20cm due to diverticulitis. Surgeon wants me to see second surgeon for consult for possible second attempt. I’ve had previous procedures with a poly removal or two. Recommendations? Thoughts? I’ve got reservations obviously.

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daphne17 | @daphne17 | Jan 11 6:37pm

In reply to @celia16 "What tests do they do in the ER?" + (show)

After taking my history, the doctors pressed around my abdomen trying to determine exactly where the pain was located. They were pretty sure it was diverticulitis and ruled out apendicitis. Then they ordered a CT scan--the kind where you have to drink something beforehand. They were able to determine it was diverticulitis after reading the scan. I was hospitalized with IV meds which included painkillers and antibiotics. I had other trips to the ER after that. But since I already had the diagnosis, the scan, and been treated before, they usually check out my symptoms and prescribe antibiotics.

celia16 | @celia16 | Jan 11 7:06pm

In reply to @daphne17 "After taking my history, the doctors pressed around my abdomen trying to determine exactly where the..." + (show)

I see. Well, I’m going to explore getting in to see my gastroenterologist asap, to see what they can find. I don’t want a hospital stay if I can avoid it. My colonoscopy isn’t until April! I can get in earlier if I will do it in a nonhospital setting. I’m not comfortable with that…especially now.

Last night I awoke from sleep with a very strong rectal cramp. It was pretty intense and no warning. Up until now it’s been mild cramp. I got up and it totally disappeared in 5 minutes! I haven’t felt it since. I’ve read about proctalgia frugax….idk Or hemorrhoids. But, with no bleeding…it feels very close to the anus. I think they may be able to see the area with an instrument in their office. I don’t understand why I keep getting medical issues. I feel so good otherwise. It’s discouraging.

cyndimae | @cyndimae | Jan 11 8:48pm

In reply to @celia16 "Had you ever had a colonoscopy before this?" + (show)

Yes, the usual every 10 year deal for the colonoscopies. The diverticulitis attack apparently did a number on my colon. I was probably sick for a week to 10 days with various G.I. symptoms including abdominal pain. I wish I had known that lower left pain was diverticulitis and maybe I wouldn’t have ended up in the position. I’m in now.

celia16 | @celia16 | Jan 12 9:14am

In reply to @cyndimae "Yes, the usual every 10 year deal for the colonoscopies. The diverticulitis attack apparently did a..." + (show)

When you had previous colonoscopies, before your flares, did they observe diverticulitis then?

dennisreturnit | @dennisreturnit | Jan 12 12:19pm

Not that I remember.

slkanowitz | @slkanowitz | Jan 12 2:38pm

A second attempt might be fine as long as the diverticulitis was treated adequately and symptoms are gone. If it was an episode w/o symptoms I would ask for a CBC blood count and CRP (inflammation marker) in blood to indicate there’s no more infection prior to second attempt at colonoscopy.

daphne17 | @daphne17 | Jan 12 3:15pm

In reply to @celia16 "I see. Well, I’m going to explore getting in to see my gastroenterologist asap, to see..." + (show)

I agree with you wanting the hospital setting. They won't do mind unless it can be scheduled in the hospital because I have afib. Getting an appt in the hospital for one means you have to wait quite awhile unless it is an emergency or you go in through the ER. Still, I think it is the better option.