25 Comments
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Sandhya's avatar

This is so interesting. I live in the US and I have endoscopies regularly because of various high-risk GI issues. As far as I know, the US only offers endoscopies with sedation or a managed anesthesia protocol (essentially, the same as general anesthesia). I had to switch from the former to the latter several years ago after waking up in the middle of the procedure. Bearing all this in mind, I am truly awed by your fortitude!!!!

Rachel Johnson's avatar

I thought I was too butch for proper pain relief even though I’ve had three kids…and all that entails. Thank you for writing Sandya

Janey Thompson's avatar

Jeez yes, on the colonoscopy ordeal without sedation. Bad enough to start with...hideous once the consultant, who had the bedside manners of a ape, grabbed my body hard from behind (obviously) and barked "Relax, I told you!" And started to interrogate me about laxative abuse.

Traumatised still, it was two years ago .

Glad you are ok and nothing serious wrong.

Rachel Johnson's avatar

It was an endoscopy so it went down rather than up but still - not to be repeated

Janey Thompson's avatar

And beautifully and graphically described! I possibly misread the early reference to having to stop a colonoscopy half way through for sedation as first person, rather than a quote from a.n.other. I think the endoscopy sounds, if anything, marginally worse - certainly more frightening...

Harriet's avatar

Sounds dreadful. But what was the explanation for the symptom?!

Rachel Johnson's avatar

Hypochondria I expect although I never go to the doctor

Nicholas Allott's avatar

Hello Dearest! So agree with you about Gummies . Someone gave me some at a dinner party a couple of years ago (“really mellow -you’ll love it”). Truly horrible - I stared at everyone unable to speak for three hours . Wondering why I’d loved weed so much as a “child”. BUT the point of this response is that I had similar symptoms to you for months and eventually was referred to an ENT man who after a quick peek with a stick and torch said I’m sure you’ve not got oesophageal cancer but I’ll do an Endoscopy when you’re back from holiday. Holiday has now stretched to three months during which, unconsciously I’ve adopted the Mediterranean diet (Aegean actually) and barely touched bread, white pasta and related farinaceous products. I’ve been Totally symptom free. So… maybe worth testing for wheat allergy (or something else)? Take care. See you soon . love NA

Rachel Johnson's avatar

So you havent had the procedure? How interesting....I don't do much bread or pasta anyway sadly...

Kim Elizabeth's avatar

So glad you are ok dear Rachel x sending very best wishes to you x

Rachel Johnson's avatar

I’m embarrassed to say that I’m absolutely fine! Thank you x

Wendy Varley's avatar

Glad you were seen promptly and got the all clear, Rachel. Had that procedure a couple of times without sedation and wincing at the memory. But glad it exists!

Rachel Johnson's avatar

It's unforgettable

Miranda Taylor's avatar

Gawd Rachel- how ghastly.

all ‘soft drugs’ ruin everything- it has been my mantra since university. Signed your square bear friend up the hill.

Rachel Johnson's avatar

Youre so right neighbour - it reminded me of the time I dropped acid at a Grateful Dead concert and NOT in a good way xxx

Susie 🌱's avatar

F’eck. Hope you’re ok …

Rachel Johnson's avatar

Better than ever! Thank you

SB's avatar

Brilliant NHS, and brilliant there was no cancer, but given your symptoms, it's worth asking if they saw any sign of a hiatus hernia.

Maureen Susannah's avatar

So pleased all is well, Rachel. I’m a retired NHS professional. Please write to/email the Chief Executive of the Trust re the excellent care you received. This feedback is so appreciated and will reflect so positively on the team that cared for you.

Rachel Johnson's avatar

What a good idea - I will. Thank you

Rachel Johnson's avatar

There wasnt! Iain Dale asked me the same thing

Andrew Bradley's avatar

I’m so sorry to hear of your ailments, Rachel. It’s good they’ve ruled out cancer. More fizz, fewer gummies perhaps!

Andrew Bradley's avatar

In the words of Mufty Bompa: “If you go Uganda, don’t do do ganja…”