Complications after Colonoscopy

Posted by heathermary @heathermary, Mar 29 5:50pm

I had a colonoscopy on Feb. 12. I woke up during the procedure to remove 3 large polyps. I have had diarrhea and cramping ever since and the doctor who performed the procedure has been no help and will not see me until May ! What do I do to find out why I have been dealing
with this (diarrhea)for a month and a half? And how it can be treated? I had an instance while driving where I completely lost control of my bowels, it was awful! Help.

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celia16 | @celia16 | Mar 29 7:30pm

What were the findings of the colonoscopy?

heathermary | @heathermary | Mar 29 7:41pm

In reply to @celia16 "What were the findings of the colonoscopy?" + (show)

The polyps are pre cancerous but when I tried to let the office know that I have had diarrhea for over a month, they were rude and could not see me for over a month. All other doctors have told me that I must be seen by the GI doctor who performed my colonoscopy but they have been non plussed regarding my situation.

celia16 | @celia16 | Mar 29 7:47pm

In reply to @heathermary "The polyps are pre cancerous but when I tried to let the office know that I..." + (show)

I see. That sounds very frustrating. There are many reasons for diarrhea, including anxiety, irritable Bowel, etc. Can your primary at least provide guidance on treating your symptoms?

heathermary | @heathermary | Mar 29 8:09pm

In reply to @celia16 "I see. That sounds very frustrating. There are many reasons for diarrhea, including anxiety, irritable Bowel,..." + (show)

My primary has done all she can do. General Blood tests, stool samples were "normal". No medicines are working to curb the issue. Having diarrhea for over a month is not normal and my primary said I must see a GI doctor. I have asked for a referral as the GI doctor who performed my colonoscopy has been unresponsive, not concerned. In fact, she has been dismissive and rude to say the least. I have a therapist and this is not due to anxiety. I simply want answers and relief. So far, that eludes me. I am wondering if somehow my colon was damaged during the procedure. As mentioned, I woke up during the procedure. The excruciating pain of this caused me to practically jump off the gurney. This should never have happened and am wondering if this is the reason the GI doctor will not speak to me. Merely a speculation on my part. I just want help and I am getting nowhere.

heathermary | @heathermary | Mar 29 8:12pm

In reply to @heathermary "My primary has done all she can do. General Blood tests, stool samples were "normal". No..." + (show)

I am 51 years old and cannot control my bowels ever since my colonoscopy. It is affecting my quality of life and as mentioned, no medicines are helping thus far.

HomeAgainLA | @llynch17056 | Mar 31 7:39am

In reply to @heathermary "My primary has done all she can do. General Blood tests, stool samples were "normal". No..." + (show)

Perhaps get a second opinion from another GI doctor, one that is willing to tell you whether it was caused by error during the colonoscopy. Some doctors are willing to do that.

mslw | @mslw | Apr 1 6:24am

Agree that opinion is needed from someone not connected to the doctor who might have caused damage.
(Also consider speaking to an attorney if you suspect malpractice.
You may be helping others avoid similar problems.)

researchmaven | @researchmaven | Apr 1 9:31pm

In reply to @heathermary "I am 51 years old and cannot control my bowels ever since my colonoscopy. It is..." + (show)

On April 9, I am having a souped-up colonoscopy (as it will include the small intestine too) by what I'll call a "master" gastroenterologist. I will ask this gastro about your situation. He has a huge amount of experience and is a Castle and Connolly-listed doctor.

In my view, diarrhea could be the sign of an infection. Keep or get the May appointment with the gastro that did the colonoscopy and also continue on your own to seek answers. You said you took some medicines for the diarrhea. What were they?