blonde10’s BodyBlog

Yesterday I had a Capsule Endoscopy. This technology allows for viewing of the small intestine previously only seen by surgery. The Capsule is a small camera about the size of a big vitamin. It emits an LED light and takes two (2) pictures per second as it travels through the gastrointestinal tract. The pill was easy to swallow, and I had about 10 electrodes hooked up on my abdomen (like an EKG hook up) and a back pack that holds the computer. These images are then downloaded to a computer and my doc will view the footage.

It does NOT replace Colonoscopy or Upper Endoscopy because the capsule cannot be controlled as to what it is viewing, nor does it provide the ability to take biopsies but, it does provide the ability to view the small intestine beyond the reach of the standard colonoscopy. The Capsule can examine the entire length, (approximately 20-30 feet) of the small bowel. Since my doc has already confirmed the reoccurence of my Crohns via colonoscopy, this test will show if there are any other areas he should be concerned with, and may be able to account for any other reasons concerning my anemias.

There is very little risk with this procedure; however if there is a blockage or narrowing in the small intestine, the capsule could become stuck at that site and require surgical removal. So, the immediate good news is that it came out, which means there are No Horrible Strictures! WooHoo! I am sure they will view the footage within the week and let me know what is what.

I called the doc at 1:45pm and I told him I pooped out the camera already (and NO, I did Not have to retrieve it).
He said "Are you sure? How do you know?"
I said "Yes, because my poop was blinking."
He said "And you have Never had blinking poop before?"
I said "No, although my surgeon thinks sunshine comes out my butt."
He laughed and told me to come on down and return the equipment.
He still didn’t believe me and asked if I actually saw the camera because that is a very fast rate of digestion. So, I apparently digest at least 2-24 hours faster than "normal" people. I KNOW I am NOT "NORMAL", besides what’s the fun in that???

I have to say the experience was surreal, like out of a science fiction novel. And if blinking poop wasn’t weird enough. The weirdest part was the swallowing of the camera to begin with. It was blinking and it was strange to think that it was gonna be inside me. I wish I could get a copy of the footage, I just think it is fascinating.

So, I went to the gastro doc yesterday. And I am "Officially" Lactose Intolerant… DUH! I have been telling him that for atleast 3 years! He is a wonderful doc but, sometimes he just doesn’t listen and he has two strikes against him being male and a doctor. I love him but, Geesh, this one he dropped the ball on. Although, I was smart enough to drink Lactaid all these years anyway.

Simply stated, Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme, lactase, that is needed to digest lactose (milk sugar). Because it cannot be digested the lactose stays in the intestine and ferments - causing intestinal discomfort, including abdominal pain, bloating, gas and diarrhea.

All I had to do to be diagnosed was take a Hydrogen breath test. I had to drink 8 oz. of whole milk (Yikes), then 30 minutes later, I breathed into a tube that measured hydrogen from undigested lactose. Large amounts of exhaled hydrogen indicates that you aren’t fully digesting lactose and that you’re intolerant.

So, He wants me to cut out ALL dairy for 2 weeks to see if my symptoms improve. Yikes! I Love cheese! Oh Well. I have done it before. Recently, I have become obsessed with 1% Cottage Cheese, I don’t know what the heck I am gonna do without it now.

Lactose Intolerance is extremely common. So, if you experiencing any of those symptoms, ask your doc to test you for Lactose Intolerance. Your colon will thank you!

This concludes another Public Service Announcement from Gab.