Colonscopy suggested by GI - Input PLEASE!!

[CW41]

I went to a GI and he seems to think the reason for the flat stool is nothing more than IBS and hemorrhoids but he still wants me to have a colonoscopy to be sure. Schedules for this week and I am very very VERY nervous about this. I have read about the test and it seems to be very painful. Any input would be really appreciated. Also can someone tell me if internal hemorrhoids do cause flat stool or not? I am getting mixed advice. Thank you everyone!!

[eveningstar]

Be thankful that your doctor is recommending this very important test.  If you scroll down and read previous posts you will see many positive things about a colonoscopy.  "finally had colonoscopy" on Jan. 20   and "how bad is the prep" on Jan 19.
I have had two colonoscopies and I was completely "out" and never knew a thing.  Woke up and it was finished and never felt any pain at all.  There is good advice about the prep in the messages below.  Make sure the stuff you drink is VERY cold and drink it fast.  Hope you can use the fleet phospho soda because it a much smaller amount than the gallon of stuff.  And it works just as well.  Also have some baby wipes on hand and some desitin or cortisone cream - all these things help ease the irritation of going to the bathroom all evening!  The only bad part of the whole deal is going thru the prep - the procedure itself is no big deal.  You will do fine.  Discuss with your doctor the drugs you will be given and how "out" you want to be.  I do not know about flat stools and hemmoroids (hemorrhoids) but I am betting you have nothing serious.  The only way to know is to get the colonoscopy and you will be so relieved, and will have peace of mind!  Good luck!

[ashpie3]

I am 29 and had the same symptoms as you and my docotr also suggested a colonoscopy..I had mine done last wednesday and everything was fine..Honestly the worst part was the prep..I had no problem w/ the test I don't even remember it and had no problems afterwards..definetly get it done so you can put your mind at ease..

[Hyena of Ice]

The only discomfort is the prep and the bloating when they inflate your colon.  Lots of people aren't really bothered much from having their colons inflated, however.

[bridiejade]

eveningstar is absolutely right the prep is the worst but w/ ther fleets it isnt all  that bad...be sure to drink alot so you don't get dehydrated,   to colonoscopy is probably the easiest test i've ever had...was back to normal as soon as it was done    good luck