Considering an Upcoming Andoscopy: Seeking Input
Greetings, Reddit medical community! I'm a 29-year-old woman who maintains a fairly healthy lifestyle and works as a case manager. I take regular walks and incorporate Benefiber into my routine three times a week. Over the past year, I've experienced intense pain during bowel movements—think sharp, unbearable discomfort that feels almost like glass. Occasionally, I notice some bleeding, but it's not coming from bloody stool; rather, it seems to be from the stool itself as it moves through my system. To address these issues, I've tried both probiotics and prebiotics, in addition to increasing my fiber intake. I've also modified my diet in hopes of finding relief. Initially, I consulted with a physician who was unable to pinpoint the cause but ruled out hemorrhoids. I then visited a surgeon who performed a physical examination and, despite not knowing what was wrong, dismissed the possibility of an anal fissure because I didn't react with screaming pain. Quite frustrating! Recently, I’ve experienced a decrease in my pain levels and continue to use my fiber supplements, which has been encouraging. Now, I have an andoscopy scheduled for next week, and I'm wondering if I should proceed with it or if it's wiser to skip it. I really don't like taking time off work only to leave the doctor's office without answers. Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated! Thank you!
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 7:20:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been through a lot with your gastrointestinal symptoms, and your upcoming andoscopy might help you get to the bottom of your pain and discomfort. Let's break this down.
Main Points
- Continued pain during bowel movements, coupled with bleeding, merits further investigation.
- While symptoms have improved slightly, the andoscopy could still provide valuable insights.
Explanation
You’ve described sharp pain during bowel movements and occasional bleeding associated with your stool, which could indicate a variety of conditions, including anal fissures, strictures, or even inflammatory bowel disease. While your previous examinations didn’t reveal a clear cause, continuing discomfort suggests that you haven't yet fully addressed the underlying issue.
Though you’ve noticed an improvement in pain levels, pursuing the andoscopy could be beneficial for a more definitive exploration of your digestive tract. This procedure is typically designed to visualize any abnormalities, and your symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation even if you’re currently feeling better.
Next Steps
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Proceed with the Andoscopy: Given that the pain and bleeding are concerning, it's reasonable to go ahead with the planned procedure. It could provide valuable diagnostic information that leads to a treatment plan or reassurance.
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Document Symptoms: Keep a record of your symptoms leading up to the andoscopy, noting any variations in pain levels, bowel habits, and any other relevant details. This can provide helpful context for your healthcare provider.
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Discuss Concerns with Your Doctor: If you have specific worries about the procedure or its potential outcomes, consider expressing these to the doctor performing the andoscopy beforehand. It can help alleviate anxiety and ensure you feel empowered during the process.
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Focus on Diet and Hydration: Continue to prioritize your fiber intake, and ensure you're drinking plenty of water to help with bowel movements. This can assist in preventing further discomfort.
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Plan for Recovery: If you need time off work for the procedure, try to plan that time around a weekend or free days to minimize disruption. Take this time to relax and recover post-procedure.
You are taking proactive steps to address your health, which is commendable. Wishing you the best with your upcoming procedure!
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