Never Would I Ever - Colonoscopy Edition

Colonoscopies are a great diagnostic and preventative procedure that everyone should eventually utilize! While not super fun, they do provide great insight into your GI tract and can save your life by preventing colon cancer! However, they are complicated, have a lot of rules to prepare for them, and can bring about a lot of anxiety and stress.
In this video, I discuss 5 things i would never do as a gastroenterologist before a colonoscopy! These range in topics from - the prep, eating and drinking, personal hygeine, polyp concerns, and lack of findings. Watch the video to find out what I would never do - colonoscopy ediition!
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Be Sure to Check Out Other Relevant Content:
Time for a Colonoscopy: • Time for A Colonoscopy? \
When and Why Have a Colonoscopy: • When & Why Have A Colo...
Cant Handle Colonoscopy Prep - Watch this for Adice/Tips: • Can't Handle Colonosco...
How to Plan for A Colonoscopy: • How to Plan For A Colo...
DISCLAIMER: While I am a Gastroenterologist, I am not acting as your Gastroenterologist. The information provided on this channel is intended to be general educational content and not directed towards any one individual. If you believe you have a medical condition that deserves attention please seek care from your healthcare provider. If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency, call 911.

[@williamandrews781]

He did not waste our time, and he did not play "music" Great video!!

[@tamlarse]

Yes yes, so many good vlogs go bad because of all the unnecessary stuff they post. Just get to the point.

[@GooogleGoglee]

When you have to go you have to go... No time for futile stuff.

[@stvnsonrated]

Good for you 🎶

[@Former_Pastor]

Exactly. Straight to the point ✅️

[@ClaryPamela]

Wow,no music, just his voice❤, telling us what we really need to know before the procedure,and relaxing at the same time❤.

[@terryshaw9471]

Don’t put it off people. I’m here today because I was checked. I had colorectal cancer 2nd nearly 3rd stage. I’m well today and getting tested again soon

[@Nflguy4949]

I was very nervous for my first colonoscopy this week. I had never been “put under” before. I also worried about post procedure pain etc. In the surgery room as they gave me the med, I felt a tingling sensation all over. The next thing I know I’m in the recovery room and it’s 45 minutes later. Zero pain or discomfort.

[@Rico401Prov]

Absolutely! I actually prefer getting a colonoscopy over getting teeth pulled. Besides the prep being a pain the butt (no pun intended), the procedure itself was nothing to worry about

[@abc456f]

Had my five year colonoscopy a few months ago. They removed one simple polyp and one large precancerous polyp. My father died from colon cancer so it's very important that I get these done. Now I need to get my next one in three years. The prep is the worst part.

[@Info-eh4tv]

ask for pills.. there are alternatives to the prep drink.

[@grainiac7824]

Same I had a 1-INCH poly 6 months ago, so big they could only take 3/4 of it down. Returned this week to finish the job and I got a clean report. ADD LEMON FLAVORED DRINK MIX TO YOUR PREP AND IT IS EASY TO DRINK.

[@danielpitt7347]

I had mine recently, after reading stories and listening to others I believe I freaked myself out!!! Just take moviprep as prescribed it’s just like a normal laxative , if your make this in a 2litre bottle, which today we all have some for of measurement on your water bottles or they can be brought. Once the liquid is consumed go to the toilet and relax, it will start to pass out like water and this will feel like a tap and will take half hour to 45mins to finish, the colonoscopy procedure does not hurt ! You might feel a little pushing now and then but you should not experience any pain . Please ignore all negative feedback back on social media and other platforms. These videos are very accurate so don’t mentally distress your own minds . It’s very important to follow your diet as directed so please do so ,mine was perfect and I definitely felt much better for a bowel cleans . All my results were negative but I convinced myself I was dying after reading into things too much . Stay positive people

[@catherinecrow5662]

mine is tomorrow. First prep was intense at the end. I hope my 2nd phase in the morning goes as well. And thanks for sharing the duration of the cleansing

[@darlenebliss5262]

Did you get sedation?

[@jarrodbarkley9061]

I put this off for years, finally got it done recently, and it was NOTHING. Wish I'd done it years earlier. It's very reassuring to know that if I have a stomach ache, it's not colon cancer.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks. I hope the reassurance is valuable to patients.

[@lalalinares5772]

I did my first colonoscopy today everything went very well. Dr Feldman found and removed 2 polyps I am 50. Glad I did it! I was nervous at first but it was a piece of cake. The worst was the prep using restroom all night😩. I go back in Five years😊

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks for sharing your experience. The prep is the worst part. Most patients say the procedure itself is done before it seemed to start.

[@joen.8364]

How many years are they recommending until your next one?

[@suraksha999]

did removing the polyps pains or not? I have my full colonoscopy tomorrow.. i am afraid

[@MarkCooperMD]

@@suraksha999 there should be no pain from removing a polyp. The colon doesn’t have sensation like skin. So you don’t feel it.

[@CathieG]

Thanks Doc! I had my first one done yesterday and it went great! Yes the prep is the worst part. They removed 2 “large” polyps. But Dr said they should be fine. To be honest I freak out about needles so next time I’m going to try no sedation…. 🤔 Good luck everyone; you’ll be fine. 💕

[@billypee5280]

I’ve had 6 done…colon cancer runs in my family….the last 2 were done without sedation and I tolerated both procedures very well. I felt some mild discomfort when the scope had to turn a couple times but the nurse re-positioning my legs quickly helped ease any “cramp like” discomfort. I think the sedation is good for patients who are anxious or a little scared by the procedure. I can go either way to be honest. Sometimes I don’t mind a little nap after being up all night emptying out other times i just wanna get in and out of the clinic as fast as possible, going without sedation also means you can drive yourself home after the procedure is done. 😬👍

[@sonjastarr1364]

That makes me feel a lot less scared. If it can be done without sedation then maybe I can get through it ok with sedation.

[@RobPires]

@@billypee5280Hope you are all well. may I ask why was it necessary to do it 6 times?

[@KatieJoMikell]

@@RobPires I’ll answer that because colon cancer runs in my family too so when they find something during the procedure, that’s not good but they got rid of it so that’s good. You come back in a year you don’t come back in 10 years so it depends on the person and what they find.

[@m.b.calderhead268]

Thank you. Very succinct and no nonsense info. Appreciate the speed with which he imparts the promised info.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mamawfrancy]

If you're trying to decide I want to assure you having a colonoscopy gives you so much peace of mind. Great video.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks for watching and for taking the time to provide a reassuring comment.

[@TaylorZ2]

I agree. I just had a colonoscopy and endoscopy last week. For anyone considering either one, don't overthink it! It's not THAT bad and the peace of mind is priceless.

[@alansach8437]

From experience, as many have stated, the prep is the worst you will ever feel without being sick or injured! Schedule the colonoscopy first thing in the morning if you can for two reasons: One, you get it over with and can eat! Two, studies show that doctors "find" and remove more polyps during colonoscopies done in the morning than in the afternoon, probably because they are fresher. The procedure itself is a piece of cake. They will roll you into the operating room and the next thing you know you are waking up in recovery, and a nurse is asking if you would like some juice or maybe a cracker. The doctor will come in a few minutes later and tell you the results. They will keep you 30 or 45 minutes to make sure you are ok, mostly from the anaesthesia. Then they release you. You need a friend or family member to give you a ride. If you are like me, it will be a ride to I-Hop for breakfast!

[@sooofunny37]

u had both done at the same time?@@TaylorZ2

[@andredebruyn1453]

@@alansach8437 the stick a thing up your ...its 2024, is there nothing better? common!!

[@kathystclair9485]

I could not finish all of my prep on one occasion. My gastrologist came to the recovery room and told me my colon was very clean. I had to admit I could not get the last of the prep finished. He said, "Well sometimes I can't either".

[@louisesmith4251]

😂

[@superjtrdr]

I just threw up right after drinking the last cup

[@domineekdubois496]

Just had mine done yesterday I didn't finish it all they said I was clean

[@thomasclark8086]

I had stage 3B colon cancer at age 70 never had a colonoscopy my bad I was lucky cancer free thanks to great Drs. And the the power of prayer.

[@Panu-qi7tm]

Speak loud don't mumble

[@MasterQ33f]

Thanks to the Dr**** just the drs

[@stottme1]

Excellent presentation. Crystal clear.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thank you kindly!

[@mollys1584]

Thank you for this! My first colonoscopy coming up and this eased my mind!

[@alansach8437]

The prep is crappy (to coin a phrase), the rest is a piece of cake. You won't even know they did anything. The piece of mind is priceless!

[@EricaVillanueva-s4c]

What are the chances of perforation?

[@Eyes0penNoFear]

Also, can they confirm the scope is 100% sterilized between patients?

[@EricaVillanueva-s4c]

​@@Eyes0penNoFear...oh great, I had not thought of that.

[@HopefulEmpath]

@@Eyes0penNoFear They can’t confirm that. The CDC recommends using paracetic acid for sterilization over Cidex (glutaraldehyde) which 80% of facilities use. You want to avoid potential transfer of infectious material from previous patients.

[@sujathasundaram9802]

I have my colonoscopy tomorrow. I have a family history, my mom has colon cancer and I am 47. I was scared. I watched your videos and it was helpful. Thank you🙏

[@BRIGHTBURNER76]

How'd it go I'm getting mine tomorrow?.

[@Rico401Prov]

@@BRIGHTBURNER76how did yours go? I have mine in 2 weeks

[@nate8525]

How did it go??? And pain after? I'm getting my first one done in two weeks and I'm kinda freaking out

[@robertl9065]

Had mine at 45. It was a breeze. Removed 1 polyp. Glad I had it done.

[@reklovjj]

Today going for my 4th.! Colon cancer ran in my Mom who survived through and her sister whom sadly didn’t. We’re talking 40 years ago for these events; so docs suggested entire family to screen and closely follow up. Personally had polyps removed each time. Each colonoscopy was spaced 3 years. There’s no such thing as used to it for sure and hate it each time even though no pain and no complications so far. One thing is certain prevention is key so get it done folks!

[@MarkCooperMD]

thanks for watching! i hope it went well!!

[@reklovjj]

Done went perfect few polyps removed good to go in 3 years!

[@RobPires]

@@reklovjjGood to hear you are all well. May I ask how young were you when you had your first colonscopy? Thanks.

[@reklovjj]

@@RobPires mid-40’s

[@Wooster77]

I had been putting this off for 15 years and finally had my first colonoscopy 2 weeks ago. It truly isn’t anything to worry about. Prep was easy, just follow the instructions exactly. The procedure only took 20 min, no pain whatsoever. The doc removed one small polyp. Huge relief there was nothing else.

[@vickieyoung7122]

My husband and 2 other friends said it was extremely painful.. My sister m law died when they perforated her colon doing a routine colonoscopy...she became septic....but she didn't have cancer...I think I will pass

[@andicantu6490]

@@vickieyoung7122you should at least do that poop sample test to see if there’s blood in your stool. If so, research your city’s options on the internet. Reviews really help.

[@Shibu-gh5uz]

How was it​@@vickieyoung7122

[@thenext9537]

@@vickieyoung7122Colon cancer won’t be there. Until it is. I’ve seen it take out people FAST, and once you have symptoms, it’s not good at all. It’s easy to have done and no issues here.

[@joeweatlu5169]

@@vickieyoung7122 Sorry to hear that, but under proper sedation there shouldn't be any pain. Also, perforated colon is *_extremely_* rare.

[@SolidNate99]

Really nice video by a very nice sounding doctor. I am actually preparing today for my 2nd colonoscopy. First one was nearly 10 years ago. I am very nervous about it but I shouldn't be because I have done this before and know what to expect. I guess why be nervous when doctors do millions of these a year and very rarely does anybody die from it. Thank you for the video.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks Nate. I hope it goes well today.

[@SolidNate99]

@@MarkCooperMD i finished all of my go lytely prep but still the doc said he found poop in there. The prep was torture too

[@bronsonleach3573]

@MarkCooperMD I have many things to say and many I disagree with. A full beard will not affect a good anesthesiologist's work. If he can't work with a customer, he doesn't belong on the job. Patients are customers it has to be done in a way that works for them, or they will simply leave and go somewhere else that can that is the name of the game and they can easily find better specialists on and even find state rankings. Also, anesthesia is not nessarly for a colonoscopy, not even sedation necessary. Europe doesn't use any anesthesia or sedation for their colonoscopy procedures . I have had two major knee surgeries. The beard doesn't affect the seal because their is this thing known as pressure and tape it works well. I can shave or cut my hair for religious reasons, nor can I bear my genitals to the opposite sex unless I am married to them. I had all the different types of anesthesia styles, local, regional , and general. Local and regional work is similar and are done when the customer doesn't need to be killed and put on a ventilator for a neck surgery which is actually the only time general anesthesia is absolutely necessary and heart transplant. Regional can be done with almost any surgery, even without sedation. General anesthesia is way too dangerous and unpredictable it and almost killed me and caused PTSD to the point I can talk to an anesthesiologist like I went to school with one. For my second major knee surgery, I had it fully awake with a spinal and nerve block combo in case the regional didn't last long enough. Extreme modesty must be given or you are a walking talking lawsuit. For this procedure, colonoscopy shorts are acceptable for the procedure. Also, boxers turned backwards are acceptable as well. This is from medical journals, not me. The most discomfort the customer should have is gas if the procedure is done correctly if the one doing the procedure accidentally hits the wall of the colon or the intestine can cause pain. Otherwise, it should not cause any pain except gas from the gas being used in order to see better insides the colon and intestines. Everything else I agree on but doctors and specialists need to he careful what they say and how they do things because quite simply a customer can now read the same medical journals that doctors and specialists use online. I read them all the time myself to keep myself educated in whatever procedure I am having. The only advocate a customer has is themselves, not the doctors or the nurses themselves only. I was taken advantage of by a surgeon and was manipulated into the surgery. That left me severely traumatized to the point I will not trust a single medical worker at all. That surgery also left me in permanent physical pain. I always ask for a list of all medications used and what was agreed upon. If I even find one medication on the list that was not agreed upon, I have the right to sue and will. That is the right of me being a customer. To me, a doctor is pretty much the same as a plumber to me I am the customer and he has to do it the way it works for me if he doesn't he doesn't get paid. That is the same for surgeons as well. That surgeon that harmed me fired all his staff to avoid a lawsuit and put all the blame on them. When it was actually his fault and the anesthesiologists' fault. I may be considered a hard patient to work with, but I have to make sure the people are doing what is necessary and won't leave me permanently disfigured or in permanent pain and violated. Any surgery or procedure I have now must be done fully awake and no sedation so I can with drawl consent at any time do to the law that most states have is that a patient under sedation or general anesthesia can not have consent and medical teams may do what is deemed necessary. I do not talk at all during any procedure to allow the surgeon do his work, and if there are any problems, I tell the anesthesiologist. My oxygen was dropping my second surgery fully awake the alarms were going off I told the anesthesiologist just to give me another pillow. My acid reflux is probably kicking in it will do that sometimes. He wouldn't know that if I was asleep and that could have caused some serious complications if I was asleep and not able to tell them that. They may look at my medical history, but most of them always for what is on it. Such as no antibiotics without a probiotic I can't count the amount of times I caught C diff because the anesthesiologist or doctor forgot to read that part on my medical history.

[@allenlea8310]

I agree. His voice is very pleasant and reassuring. I am going to receive my first colonoscopy tomorrow, but fear the results shall be inconclusive because of a daily medication I take which contains 36 mg of iron. :0(

[@longstraightlines6747]

​@@bronsonleach3573you sound like a muslim with some of the weird things you said. A beard does interfere with having an efficient seal when it comes to masks. It's basic physics. It's not impossible but beards make it more difficult.

[@misterhall6109]

Reinforcing the pre-colonoscopy regime in a both helpful and calm manner: fantastic job!

[@peggybernett9545]

Thank you for another very good clarification on the colonoscopy procedure.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks Peggy. I’m glad it was helpful.

[@susanbutzler3536]

What hurts most is the health insurance leaves a lot to be paid out of pocket

[@jamesoncurry5224]

Yah cost me 2500, and with the top insurance … im only 40

[@MarkCollins-k6x]

I only had to pay 339$ for my first colonoscopy and 2 regular polyp removal. but I had to go in for a second colonoscopy in the hospital for a flat polyp removal. I aspirated on the table and had to reschedule. Yea anything that takes place in the hospital will cost you a mess! Almost $3000 out of my pocket…..since I just did the third colonoscopy (this time I did not aspirate)….the flat polyp removal was a success…..but I’m sure to get another $3000 bill. Killing me I still get full charge for the second colonoscopy and they did nothing they set out to accomplish. I literally am being charged $3000 dollars for vomiting on the table!

[@caroledumbleton4448]

@@MarkCollins-k6xomg, so glad we don’t have to pay out like that in the UK

[@michellehood3345]

Why did I find this so amusing...I'm scared to tears and this actually made me laugh 😂

[@lisapope4022]

Absolutely nothing to be scared of.....

[@Margalus]

Don't be scared. You will be asleep and never even know anything happened.

[@josetterobinson-eaton1391]

Dr. Cooper, Thanks for explaining this out. I feel a lot better. Great video.

[@RamenLlama]

Cheers for your videos man. I just had my first colonoscopy and second gastroscopy today, and all went well. Was feeling bit worried about the procedures (my last gastroscopy was painful as fuck despite being dripfed sedatives), and the doctor was really rude to me, but everything seems OK down there. The prep really was the worst part; though the procedures weren't painless, it wasn't anything I couldn't handle. I've watched a dozen or so of your videos in the past 24 hours, and your delivery, tone and knowledge are all very comfortable and reassuring to listen to. Also you're handsome so bonus points for that lol. But aye, thanks for your educational content, and for going into medicine. I hope you have a great rest of your year!

[@jimwright9866]

great video. I wish I had a doctor was communicative and thorough

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks. I appreciate that. Though I admit it is a lot easier to be thorough and concise when you have multiple takes.

[@drewgodderis5390]

Thank you, Dr. Cooper. It’s a wonderful video. You speak wonderful lay terms that we can all understand.

[@paulagabay9915]

I had a positive Cologuard and didn't want to have a Colonoscopy but my team found 2 small polyps and hemmoroids and I am now a firm believer in having them. I like your weed anology.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks for watching. It sounds like your hemorrhoids may have slightly bled and caused the positive cologuard.

[@jessesarmiento2675]

Cologuard should be sued for so many false positives. My came back positive and I am having the test repeated at LabCorp. There are way too many Colonoscopies. I take a Colography.

[@paulagabay9915]

@jessesarmiento2675 mine was because of the Polyps. My doctor shouldn't have even agreed to the Cologuard since I have a history of Polyps and a family history of Colon Cancer.

[@rodgraff1782]

@@paulagabay9915I would run from a doctor who suggested cologuard , if you had a family history. It says right on cologuards ads, that it should be used for people with normal risks, not for those we have a family history. Hope you got rid of this quack.

[@jingwills6267]

I don't believe in Cologuard, I'd rather go for Colonoscopy.

[@CamilleGG451]

Colonoscopy is tmro at 330 pm. Due to a logistical problem I was not able to start the prep drink until 8:45 p.m. last night though it said I should start it somewhere between 5 and 7. Called to ask if that's okay and they said yes. Only trouble is... I've had to go a little bit slower to avoid nausea. It is now 2:45 a.m. and I've just finished the rest. Need to have the second half finished by 9:30. If the other half takes the same amt of time, that means I need to start drinking the other half at 4 am.! So... I will not be sleeping at all but long story short: will this still work since I've pretty much taking it evenly from last night at 8:45 and will be 9:30? Took awhile for the stuff to kick in too as I only just started having the pottying about half hour ago.

[@jacknjill3000]

So drinking the prep is not every 15 minutes from the point you start and drinking half the day before and the other half the morning and 2 hours before your procedure? I wish it was more straightforward with the directions bc the more videos you watch and read the comments, the more options you find out. I’m also not eating anything and some videos say you can have a meal the day before the procedure.

[@mocowan6642]

Having had several colonoscopies due to polyps, the prep is the worst part. The colonoscopy itself is painless.

[@Riceman-o1p]

That was super informative! Thank you. I used to work at a sewage treatment plant and one of my favorite things to do was working on the camera crew where we would lower a camera down into the sewer lines and run the camera up the sewer pipe to look for problems such as cracks or illegal taps or blockages, etc. although I do have to say my friends made a lot of jokes.

[@Harry-rm4in]

I'm having my colonoscopy on Friday because I do have IBD 😂 thankfully I'm well atm though and not going into a colonoscopy during a flare which is the worst

[@MarkCooperMD]

I’m glad your IBD is well controlled. That’s great! I hope it continues to go well.

[@goingslowlynowhere]

It is bizarre to see how normal sedation is in USA with this. Here (Norway) it is fortunately almost unheard of. A Valium or two if you ask for it, sure, but you do not end up knocked out unless you are mentally disabled, or there is other rather extreme reasons for it.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Does Norway have a private system alongside the state system similar to UK?

[@goingslowlynowhere]

@@MarkCooperMD Similar, but less used. The public health care is decent enough for that most people rarely see the point in paying for it going faster. Very, very few offers sedation past Valium level, unless it is knee surgeries and similar. Did some googling out of curiosity, there is one private clinic in the whole country that offers colonoscopy with anesthesia. PillCam is a bit more common among private providers, but from the somewhat shallow statistics I can find? It is unusual that people feel the need for paying for it.

[@trailingupwards]

Many people simply won't have the procedure done if they are awake. A portion of those people end up dying from undiagnosed cancer. So, anesthesia is preferable as it means more people will get the procedure.

[@goingslowlynowhere]

That it is being offered? Sure, no issue there. I can understand that people prefer it. Personally, I would not accepted an elective colonoscopy if the only alternative was with sedation.

[@antohong]

A light dose of propofol will not harm you and you don't notice anything of the procedure,but here in Switzerland if you want to stay awake they will respect it,you have to asl

[@chrisarchibeque8584]

Larry the cable guy “it ain’t over until you give it back “ 😂

[@mattgreene1977]

Have my first one next week…thanks for this info!

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks for watching. I hope it goes well.

[@jadynburney3781]

Man, this REALLY made me feel better, Thank you Doc🙏

[@MarkCooperMD]

Cool I’m glad it did!

[@annschwankhaus3735]

Short and to the point. Many thanks.

[@karenmonson9893]

"Never would I ever" have this procedure done! I'll risk colon cancer then going through something like this. I did appreciate your calm and matter of fact attitude and the information you presented here.

[@TheJoncic]

A colonoscopy is a pretty routine and safe procedure that could save your life. You're asleep and don't feel anything.

[@ngo7156]

I definitely hear what you're saying, but the worst part is the prep, the multiple bowel movements to get cleaned out. My dad never had a colonoscopy either after having two heart attacks, five vessel heart bypass surgery. Then when he had severe constipation at age 66, after testing he was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer and died six months later. He always followed up with the doctor regarding his cardiac history but refused colonoscopies. Please reconsider having a colonoscopy, it could save your life. I sincerely wish you well. Take care 😊

[@jimross2101]

All preps are created equal.

[@mitchelltrio]

I’m having my first one tomorrow, and will begin the prep in an hour. I have no symptoms, but I am in the right age range to begin testing, and had a grandparent who died from colon cancer. I’ve been watching videos these last few days to get a better understanding of the whole situation, and really appreciate the straightforward, useful information here. Thank you.

[@coderspy]

I finished all but my last cup of prep drink. I just couldn't down it!

[@gsdalpha1358]

Same here. Had no problem with the first half, but fought gagging during the entire second half. I just couldn't face that last cup.

[@gaywizard2000]

Good lord, bunch of babies! Yeah it's gross but it's your job, grow up, man up, get over it!

[@bigedslobotomy]

I understand that the prep is nasty (to put it mildly), but I forced myself to drink it ALL, because I was NOT going through that again! I’d rather suffer a little and get good visualization than not drink it all and have to do it over, or have poor visualization and a possible miss of a polyp!

[@Eyes0penNoFear]

Statistically, what is the risk of complications vs incidence of cancer?

[@Randys4g]

I was SO RELIEVED after having mine. I had put it off a long time. Was having weird symptoms. Actually terrified of them finding something. Thankfully not even a polyp. It took such a weight off my shoulders!

[@rcb77211]

What kind of symptoms did you face blood in stool or lose motion

[@jenniferwilkins3825]

Someone needs to make the prep easier to swallow. And tolerate I've had 3 colonoscopys and each time the prep made me more ill. It's taste made me nauseous, the 3 time it was extreme. But. Even worse my blood pressure went sky high. I thought maybe because it tastes so salty. But. They assured me it's not sodium. Idk. But my reaction was extremely scary. The colonoscopy it self is a piece of cake.

[@wsavage3696]

I got so sick with the prep the last time I’m scared to do another one. I could barely walk into the office and they took me right back and started an IV of fluids. I felt better after they did that but wow.

[@MarkCooperMD]

What prep did you have!

[@wsavage3696]

@@MarkCooperMD the miralax mixed with Gatorade. I never throw up and I started throwing up. Called the dr and he said to slow down drinking it to take my time as long as I got it all down. But I think I was dangerously dehydrated or maybe the Gatorade or both made me sick. I can’t have sugar free of any kind of drink or food. It gives me migraines so I used regular Gatorade. Idk what to do the next time coming up soon.

[@Ladybug.706]

​@@wsavage3696maybe Suprep....my 1st colonoscopy at age 41 is tomorrow..not going lie dreading the prep tonight

[@Info-eh4tv]

ask for alternatives to the drink prep.. there are pills u can take instead.

[@juliej5917]

Just had my third. The prep this time was my least favorite. Hoping they’ll have another option next time.

[@russellandrews4999]

Great information!

[@BarrowBay]

Can I stay awake so I can watch the colonoscopy? It’s just that I’d be interested in seeing the inside of my body while this is happening.

[@BarrowBay]

....update...yes...it was painless and I was able to watch the trip up inside me and the removal of a couple of polyps !! The absolute worst part was having to drink that gawd awful drink the day before. (I admitted to them that I could only finish 2 1/2 L)

[@jimhowaniec]

Excellent video.

[@ruthanderson1758]

Last time I had the procedure they gave me almost no sedation because I have sleep apnea - I had brought my CPAP machine but they didn't care. Secondly, despite following the prep correctly, my colon wasn't as cleared out as the doctor thought it should be and he kept making noises and saying things about how hard it was to see and suggesting I hadn't followed the prep properly. I was furious but in too much pain to say much of anything. Needless to say the procedure was extremely painful and I haven't been back even though I was due for one 2 years ago.

[@FlyingTigress]

About to have my first one following colon cancer surgery. Several sigmoidoscopies to date, but first one looking at my shortened :) colon.

[@Herbie11]

The bright side, it'll be a shorter procedure. 😉

[@5wm562]

Over 1000 colonoscopies a year. That's an average of 3 per day. My question here is, out of that number, how many patients experience complications, what are those complications, at what % have they occurred? And more importantly out of those 1000 procedures did it ever make any difference that polyps benign or not were removed? This last question since if polyps are determined to be of no consequence to the life of the patient it would seem that the risks associated with the procedure would be comparatively greater than the existence of the polyps, esp if the patient is proven otherwise healthy and presents no overt risk of colon cancer, i.e. colonoscopy is unnecessary.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Left alone polyps risk transforming into cancer. That’s the reason to remove them. Perforation rate is usually around 1 in 2,500. Studies show that when colonoscopy is widely adopted in an area the incident of colon cancer falls considerably in the years after. In short the benefit is orders of magnitude greater than the risk for harm.

[@jeffthewhiff]

I just had a colonoscopy yesterday, but unfortunately, I will have to get another one because during the prep stage, the Miralax did not clean my colon enough. Very frustrating because I don't like going through the prep because it is the worst part of the procedure.

[@MarkCooperMD]

It is frustrating. This suggests you have baseline constipation and addressing that would help the next prep turn out better. You might also try one of the Suprep or su flave options. You may also be recommended to complete a two day prep.

[@jeffthewhiff]

@@MarkCooperMD Dr. Cooper, thank you for your reply! I have had four colonoscopy's in my lifetime and this was the first time the prep did not work the way it should. I rarely am ever constipated and I have a vegetarian diet, so I was surprised that the prep did not clean me out. I did use a store brand laxative instead of Miralax, but I wouldn't think that would have made a big difference. Also, I only had one more glass of water to drink and decided not to drink it because I was tired of drinking the mixture all day, so that was my fault.

[@suebell5870]

I’ve had six colonoscopies and am having my 7th in late February. To make things easier at least three days in advance I lower my food intake and when eating select easy to digest foods like pasta, ground meat, eggs, etc. less input, less output! Seems to work for me. You might think about this for the next round.

[@Herbie11]

The vegetarian diet did you in. Seriously. It's not that healthy.

[@suebell5870]

@@vallee3140 I was not told no meat, but went only with ground meat to make digestion easier and faster. The rest of your recommendations are spot on.

[@JP-vs1ys]

Great points.

[@jeansmyth7474]

My radiotherapist gave me a full tumbler of water immediately before my test!!

[@marydfm664]

Doc, you said you perform over 1000 colonoscopies a year? That seems high. Are you truly paying attention to what you are doing? It is truly an honest question.

[@MarkCooperMD]

10X3.5X46 is over a 1000 so it’s accurate. As for paying attention yes. Would you rather have someone who has barely done it or someone who does it a ton. Experts are able to do more with greater accuracy than non experts. Any advice I’ve ever seen to guide patients on how to pick a physician who is best able to do their procedure is to ask “how many do you do a year” never “how long does it take you do it.” There are standards for withdrawal time that I actually exceed as I’m usually able to navigate through the colon effectively, allowing me more time for the actual exam.

[@ilovesuisse1]

Thanks for this video.

[@bettysmith4527]

Read the stats before getting this done as just a routine screening (I am talking if you are asymptomatic, and only doing it because the hospital and physicians that stand to make millions a year off this procedure are telling you that you need it done at a certain age), and talk to your doctor, make an informed decision for yourself!! I will not be getting one of these done, I have seen enough perforated bowels, and if you look at the percentage of colonoscopies that actually find significant cancer vs the amount of injuries that occur from colonoscopy you would be quite surprised. I am not a doctor so do your own research and speak with your own doctor before making your own decision.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Having done thousands of colonoscopies I’ve routinely found lesions that if we hadn’t caught them early they would have caused cancer a few years down the line. As for the risks I’ll keep knocking on wood. But I’m certain the benefit to my patients has been orders of magnitude greater than any harm. Thanks for watching.

[@robertl9065]

Exactly you’re not a doctor.

[@mandala314]

How do they handle patients with anethesia awareness? (Awake and feeling but can't speak or move.) Is there a knockout/pain relief med besides propofol, fentanyl, versed or ketamine?

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks for watching. This is a nuance better answered by anesthesiologist. However deep sedation may maintain some wakefulness and sensations of pressure. Most people are totally asleep and lack any recollection of the procedure.

[@TheVendor1260]

Simple and clear; objective achieved without any distractions of background music. Very articulate. Thanks.

[@grainiac7824]

And no cartoon images interrupting the info. I hate those. They're supposed to be funny but I don't like the interruption.

[@billbucktube]

In many videos they help you do the colonoscopy but they only say, "Resume normal eating" for after the procedure. My wife had pancakes, syrup, etc after the procedure and other less than optimal foods in the next few days. I would guess that the high fructose corn syrup wrecked her gut flora. She has had intestinal cramping daily since. Is there an optimized method for getting the gut back to it's "normal" gut populations in the normal locations? Obviously the gut is not cleaned of all bacteria while doing the prep. How do we get her gut flora back to optimal?

[@coldfusion112002]

Greek Gods Honey vanilla greek yogurt. Eat about 8 spoonfulls a day. mix it up good each time to be creamy. Chew food better or more than before. Green vegetable juices. Get the microbiome back in shape. Eat more vegetables and eliminate processed foods and high saturated fat foods. Avoid high fructose corn syrup by all means.

[@MarkCooperMD]

All good advice except juicing excludes the benefit of fiber.

[@jacknjill3000]

I have to get a colonoscopy tomorrow and I understand drinking the gallon prep, but I got these 2 pills and one has directions on the pill bottle. The other pill has no direction on the pill bottle and the paper I was given doesn’t really say anything but to follow your doctor’s recommendation. It’s for gas control and called Simethicone and says take with food and at bedtime. Which is very confusing and not sure when to take it and how often or if this is an option if you feel gassy and bloated. Anyway, I wish they were more clear at my hospital bc I want to be fully prepared for my colonoscopy.

[@BobHill-s2c]

Can you prescribe a lifestyle change of not working any stressful job?! 😬

[@K-xb2qz]

I had a colonoscopy 4, 5 months ago. They said there was nothing and im bleeding because of a ulcer or hemorrhoid and to stop straining so hard. I still bleed every now and then. So i ended up going to another doctor. I didn't know it was another doctor. I just thought they all worked together. Anyway im enemic because of the bleeding. She said its not normal for me to be enemic. Now she wants to do a colonoscopy this coming Monday. I barely had a few days to prepare. She said she wants to know why im bleeding and how she can fix it. She said the other doctors didnt come up with a solution and she wants to do that. Any thoughts on this doc? I been having rectum bleeding for over 7 years now

[@MarkCooperMD]

I would usually get the prior colonoscopy report and do an EGD alone, rather than repeat a colonoscopy that was so recently completed. At times small AVM in the colon are missed, so that’s a consideration for second colonoscopy. But if the prep was good I think a sizeable AVM is unlikely to be missed by a qualified GI doc. So I wouldn’t be that likely to start from scratch.

[@Midwest..]

Please do some research about Manuka Honey from New Zealand and it health benefits 😊

[@K-xb2qz]

@@Midwest.. Thanks. They sell it at whole foods I believe but yeah I'll check it out

[@moonshadow3559]

Thank you for this information!

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thank you for watching!

[@cremebrulee4759]

Good information.

[@bigdanny9721]

Should I take probiotics after the colonoscopy?

[@MarkCooperMD]

No real need to. Just eat well. You still have bacteria present in your colon that will flourish over the next few days. Probiotics don’t seem to actually take up residence in your colon so they ultimately may not change your gut bacteria for the better. They are day laborers.

[@bigdanny9721]

@@MarkCooperMD 🙏

[@williamwilson6499]

Had my second one a few days ago. One polyp. Doc said be back in five years. Older brother kept putting his off even though he had the classical symptoms of bowel cancer. When the pain and bleeding got so bad, he finally got his colonoscopy and had stage 3B cancer. Had an ileostomy done and after chemotherapy, was cured. The ileostomy was reversed eventually.

[@infinitedarkness9476]

What was his symptoms

[@williamwilson6499]

@@infinitedarkness9476 Pain and bleeding.

[@infinitedarkness9476]

@@williamwilson6499 where was his pain and his bleeding? I had one 10 years ago. Mainly because I was having abdominal issues and they found out it was IBS. I’ve had a stinging pain off and on since August. Sometimes really bad. I’ve had some bleeding but it’s only happened for a couple days. All the doctors I’ve been talking to have believed that it is a hemorrhoid because I do tend to strain. I’m getting myself a colonoscopy just because I wanna make sure

[@infinitedarkness9476]

@@williamwilson6499 did he get his first colonoscopy? How bad was the pain and the bleeding? Is he cancer free

[@williamwilson6499]

@@infinitedarkness9476 Abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. I thoroughly encourage you to get that colonoscopy. I had one a couple of weeks ago and was told to come back in five years.

[@dorothybarrera3856]

Thank you. Your information has put me at ease!!!!

[@MarkCooperMD]

You’re welcome! Thanks for sharing

[@judithwyman7654]

I was shocked 3 polyps were removed at my first colonoscopy. My dad died from it so I was 40 and probably saved my life.

[@watchmethriving]

I had my colonoscopy last week and due to following my prep instructions they were able to easily perform the procedure. Thankfully they didn't find any polyps and I don't need to do another for 10 years. There is a family history of colon cancer and polyps so screening is very important for me. The procedure itself was very easy. The drinking the stuff wasn't pleasant but it wasn't horrid either. The part that was hard for me was not being able to eat anything for about a day and a half. It took a few days for my gut to re-regulate and my medication to get back to normal levels.

[@nmmorin3509]

Oulala🎉What a splendid approach to what to do & not Merci & bravo for having such a calm reassuring voice ❤

[@marquis_0031]

I don’t like being sedated and no matter what I do the doctors still recommend me to be sedated and I feel so nervous and scared like I feel like cancelling it. I don’t like being put to sleep because you never know and I’m just sooooo scared.

[@gaywizard2000]

They don't put you to sleep. You need to talk to your Dr and understand the full procedure. And don't let fear kill you, cancer is worse!

[@Herbie11]

I've had two, and requested no sedation. You could always lie, and say you had a bad reaction the last time under.

[@gaywizard2000]

@@sweetbeep you sound nuts.

[@gaywizard2000]

@@sweetbeep good lord, I had 2 middle aged women do mine, you need to seek therapy by the sound of it!

[@beckygarrigan3700]

I have tried to have my colonoscopy since May 2024. Both different kinds of prep have failed. I did the Miralex first then the golightly second. I followed instructions to a tee. I am 74 and my father died of colon cancer, so I am very vigilant to be tested every 3 yrs. I guess my next test will require a 2 day prep. Does anyone have any suggestions?? Thanks!!

[@susanmaycock9327]

Screening had 4 polyps took 3 off fine then went back for last one perforated they said they didnt know cat scan found it

[@forthefunofit5487]

Thank you sir. Great information on a needed procedure. I am 70 rys old and mine went just fine with no issues with my treatment. Do the prep do it complete.

[@denrico777]

"It's reassuring to know that you don't have inflammatory bowel disease" LOL 😂 -Crohn's patient

[@BourbonBoy]

Thanks Doc!!

[@MarkCooperMD]

You’re welcome. Thanks for sharing.

[@rslitman]

I had four colonoscopies between twenty-oh-one and twenty eighteen. Each prep was different. The first three were with over-the-counter products. The fourth one was with a product whose name looks at first glance like Super Bowl Prep but is actually Superb Bowel Prep. I followed each of them to the letter. All four preps worked fine for me. (Starts humming, "26 miles across the sea. Santa Catalina is awaiting for me," because the group that sang it was the Four Preps.) But my fifth one in December twenty twenty-three was a different story. This time, it was back to over-the-counter stuff plus Gatorade. I followed the prep. But I wasn't cleaned out enough! Now I have to go back again, with some changes. It will be a two-day prep with a combination of over-the-counter and prescription items. It's going to be done in the hospital surgery center instead of their free-standing facility because I had some breathing issues. And they can't get me in until April! I can just see a cancer breaking free and metastasizing during those four months. Plus, I'm not sure if my insurance (a Medicare Advantage plan with the local Blue Cross) will even cover a 2nd colonoscopy so soon.

[@Zoleankico4267]

Customer for life! No thank you!

[@sleepingvolcano7524]

I ended up with 5 yes 5 colonoscopies. From September to April.. they found polyps and a very large one I had to go from Colorado to Utah to have large on removed I proceeded to hemorrhage that night was put back in hospital and they did another one to stop bleeding was very rare…but no cancer they said..

[@Chatsworth1979]

Great video! +1

[@AjLuvU]

But I wonder what triggers the formation of the polyps?

[@tommac21]

I know what I would never do. Have a colonoscopy. Because these are so over prescribed. What's the % of people who you find have a real problem after one of these ?

[@mariehart4294]

Thank you for an excellent video.

[@Ki-l7s]

Thanx Doc, that was great. I got a colonoscopy together with a esophagoscopy wks ago. The prep made me puke 🤮, & I told my gastroentorogist about it. The check up is a necesarry evil 😂

[@robertl9065]

With my bottle of stuff to drink my doc also prescribed anti sickness pills. I didn’t need them but there is supposedly something you can take to keep from getting sick.

[@jingwills6267]

Very good advice, I just had my colonoscopy last Tuesday and I had a small polyp. Doc, what is your advice when you have a diverticulitis?

[@MarkCooperMD]

Check out my videos on diverticulitis for info on the condition. Here’s one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKHSg5-na8ahgcksi=CLIJk5MInkVftEOs

[@SandandGravelTruth]

I was planning on a 7 day prep getting colon super clean for next Monday. However, came down with strep and on antibiotics. Now I'm rescheduled for September!!! Arghhhh!!!!!

[@Harry-rm4in]

That's a really terrible idea to prep for 7 days

[@Runningwithdogs]

There talking about low residue diet 7 days out

[@johnharper2016]

Just had one. No big deal. Easy peasy. No problems found. Guy said see ya in 6 years. Bingo.

[@pamreynolds6812]

I just had one today. I drank sll the hortible prep but i was still going in the morning it was clear alm I st could he still see all the way up,? There was a small polyp in the rectum is that as far as they gob?

[@susanmaycock9327]

Every patient different i had done prep excellent pics but i think the surgeon should have been more careful

[@shahidrabbani9652]

I had my first colonscopy last tuesday prep was okay colon was clear during the procedure Endostist removed 7 poylps 2 sent for bisopies result due in 2-3 weeks time hope its not cancerous as currently i am going through prostrate cancer treatment since mar/apr luckly cancer is localised stage2

[@rik112]

Great video. Are there any questions we should ask a gastroenterologist before undergoing a colonoscopy to ensure they are a competent operator?

[@tammyphillips7311]

Plenvu prep is the worst.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Most people find it much better than the larger volumes. There’s a newer prep Suflave that claims better taste.

[@Herbie11]

Hey doctor! How well is the scope cleaned? It has telescopic parts that go back into the flexible tube, so how is that cleaned well enough?

[@MarkCooperMD]

The telescopic parts are an issue for a different type of scope than what’s used for a colonoscopy. The instruments that go through the channel to extend outside the scope are all disposable. The cleaning is extensive and has continued to improve. We immediately disinfect after the case. Then the scope goes through a second hand instrument cleaning. Then there’s a machine washing protocol. Each of these use various disinfectants that are potent. Then there’s a rapid drying process.

[@Herbie11]

@@MarkCooperMD Thank you! Always concerned me. You've made me feel a little bit better now.

[@Peeta-wn4hh]

Hello Dr. Cooper. Something happened to me at my last colonoscopy that I don’t know what to do about. My family doctor referred me because I was 57 and never had one done. This next bit is going to sound like it’s a bit out of left field but please bear with me. I don’t look or act stereotypically gay. When the doctor entered the examination room the first thing I noticed is that he never made eye contact with me, not even once. When he told me to pull my pants down and kneel on the examination table I did as told but to my surprise all he did was lightly place his gloved finger on the exterior of my anus and said “That’s it, you can get dressed now”. I was a bit shocked. I’m not a doctor but I know an exam must last longer than 15 seconds. I was shocked and didn’t understand what was going on. Coupled with the complete lack of eye contact I realized maybe he figured out I was gay from the list of medications I’m on (an anti-viral). I told my family doctor what happened but he sort of shrugged it off and said the blood PSA test is more accurate anyway. Is this true? The other doctor was obviously homophobic but I don’t want to make anything out of it because I have no actual hard evidence so it would be a matter of he said, he said. Should I ask my family doctor to send me to another (non-homophobic) doctors for a proper evaluation?

[@MarkCooperMD]

Thanks for watching. It sounds like you’re asking about prostate cancer screening as that is completed with a PSA. If you’re having a digital rectal exam for prostate screening it should be more probing than what you describe. It is usually done in a generalist clinic and not referred out. It is a bit outdated to do it I believe as the blood test is more standard now (though itself not great). I’m sorry you had a bad experience - I hope it’s rare and it should be. I can’t imagine any of our residents would finish training and not be prepared to demonstrate universal respect. There’s zero reason to be concerned for transmission by a rectal exam. Even when there’s bleeding.

[@Peeta-wn4hh]

@@MarkCooperMD : Thank you very much!

[@lilygarcia5668]

After removing a large polyp how soon can I lift weights or eat popcorn?

[@MarkCooperMD]

I have never limited people from these after a polyp removal. As long as you’re no longer drowsy from anesthesia usual physical activity should be fine. Restrictions after anesthesia are for driving and operating machinery.

[@lilygarcia5668]

@@MarkCooperMD Thank you!!

[@SpecialK-hi6kp]

I have a colonoscopy appt soon. I have yet to be able to drink the full dose of the prep. That stuff is Nasty and from the very first drink i start puking and then can't stop puking for the next 24hrs. It's hell, and it happens Every time. This will be my 4th colonoscopy and I'm dreading it. My last one they told me the taste of the prep was changed so it's not as bad, they Lied!! We can put a man on the moon yet they can't do something to at least make that Nasty stuff tolerable!

[@kaelhooten8468]

Great video. Tons of these advice videos on YT, this doc did a great job.

[@MarkCooperMD]

Glad it was helpful!

[@chrisearle-o3u]

I need to have this done but im too scared to have it done .Ive left it for a year my st9mach is bloated and im in pain

[@gelflingfay]

I am finally do it. I have had problems for 14 years. Time to get it done. Better now than later.