Out of all the specialty doctors, anesthesiologists are the most knowledgeable about MG. Would it be possible to meet with the anesthesiologist ahead of the surgery day?

Most of the procedure preps contain magnesium, which we are supposed to limit due to contraindications. Can you find out what other preps are available?

Hi Joker - Snap! I've recently been diagnosed with IBD/Crohn's Disease and had a few Colonoscopy's to date with a further/deeper one scheduled early December. As they are both autoimmune diseases there is similarity in the treatment. In fact, it was this that led to my initial diagnosis, as the first GP I saw wondered if my taking Arthroprine for MG was masking the symptoms of Crohn's.

Totally agree that the Neurologist for your MG should be in the loop. Mine was content in the initial suggestion that both Prednisolone and Arthroprine should be increased to control the Crohn's to bring things under control. Obviously, still early days, for me, with this next test aimed at better informing what will be a specialist consultant in IBD/Crohn's disease who is fairly well up on the targeted treatments.

Sorry - the answer the question - no problems with the Colonoscopy to date, but this next will have me sedated. To add to that I have had both knees replaced since having MG and no problems with anaesthetics. Absolutely agree that the anaesthetist is usually well up on MG and will probably want a discussion with you, certainly if you are to be completely' knocked' out!

Take care!

Peter

I tried Cologuard this time. You just send in a stool sample in a kit. I am not sure if it substitutes for folks who have a history of cancer. It looks for abnormal DNA. Heck of a lot simpler than the regular colonoscopy as there is no preparation!

Good Luck
Russ

Thanx Russ. Can't do cologuard. With a history of UC and colon cancer, I'll always test positive. The only way to go is the colonoscopy. The GI doc biopsies most of the remaining bowel I have left. Wants to make sure there are no pre-cancerous changes. However, this my first procedure since my diagnosis. Thus, my anxiety with my procedure and MG.

No issues with colonoscopy. I only did miralax prep nothing else started early in day drinking it at 3 pm for 630 am procedure. Doctor suggested drinking chicken broth during the day before the prep has protein and salt so didn’t get weak and has salt which helps with dehydration. . They used propofol which is fine for MG. No bad effects at all from it.

THanx Phil, I appreciate the info. My Doc has me prepping with 2x10oz citrate of magnesia, 1 .at 2:oopm and 1 at 6:00pm. Feels I have so little colon left from my cancer surgery, this will do the trick. Is aware of my issues with MG, and he also said that they use Propofol, so it shouldn't be an issue. I'm going to call GI Doc on Monday, 12/2 and discuss the prep See what happens.

I was also worried but never had problems. We aren't suppose to have contrast.
Or if we do it needs to be discussed.

Had a full Colonoscopy yesterday with sedation and without any issues. Nothing special regards preparation. still took all meds as normal.

My every-10-year colonoscopy is due, and I have been following this thread. Thanks, all of you, for posting about your experiences. I am not especially concerned anymore.
And, Peter, I am impressed and inspired by how well you seem to be managing. Crohn's AND MG -- that's an especially challenging combo.
- Nan

I just had my colonoscopy with an endoscope as well and I tolerated it just fine. I was allowed to take the mestinon 60 mg 30 minutes before the procedure. The prep I used did not contain magnesium. Was a little groggy later in the day , but I just rested for the rest of the day. Best of luck to you!