Tips and horror stories? I have to drink Golytely Solution 4000ml for my colonoscopy.
I've been given 4000ml of Golytely Solution to drink before my upcoming colonoscopy, and I'm terrified of what lies ahead. Has anyone else had to use this? How long did the worst of the side effects last? Was it as bad as I've been hearing? I've heard horror stories about the cramps and diarrhea. It's supposed to work by drawing water into your intestines, but that doesn't make it any less intimidating. Any helpful tips on how to deal with it all?
Anyone have any fun suggestions on how to make the solution taste better? I've heard some suggestions like stirring in sweetener or freezing parts into popsicles. Thoughts?
Now, I've also read the side effects list, and it's pretty scary. Any more details on the potential dehydration or electrolyte imbalances from anyone who has experienced them? I want to be prepared for all possible outcomes.
I had a bad reaction when I tried this. I ended up in the hospital with dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Take it slow and listen to your body. If you feel really bad, go to the doctor.
For real, the hardest part for me was the cramps. They were intense. I had to take some breaks and walk around the house between glasses. But yeah, I had one pre-filled 4L bag and a whole day of nothing but bathroom runs. Definitely stay close to home. I felt really dehydrated after finishing, so I drank a lot of water and electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated and replenish my electrolytes.
I drank one of the bottles. Nothing happened for hours. Then, I woke up at 2 AM with the worst cramping. I had to eat crackers and drink warm water. It got worse and worse. I felt like I was going to die. It was so bad. I had to take a day off work.
I had to do this for my colonoscopy. It was awful, but worth it. Prepare yourself for a day of being close to the bathroom. I would recommend doing it at home because you will be going a lot. The worst part was the cramping, but it wasn't as bad as I expected. I drank it all in one day and had it done over around 5 hours.
I froze some of the solution in ice cube trays and sucked on them between sips of the rest. It helped a little bit with the taste.
I added some sweetener and lemon juice to mask the taste. Gulp it down quickly instead of sipping it. It's better that way.
You can do it! Make sure you have some entertainment ready because you'll be on the toilet for a while. It wasn't as bad as I thought for me! Stay hydrated and take it slow.
It's not fun, but it's necessary. Just suck it up and get it over with. You'll feel so much better afterwards knowing your colon is clear.
Do not take it at work. Trust me.