Question from Colleen
Hi Debra,
I need to have a colonoscopy and may have to have other surgery. I have reactive airway disease and asthma which is triggered by vinyl shower curtains. They are made with DEHP which is also in IV bags, tubing, etc that the hospital uses.
Has anyone dealt with this? How did you get around it?
I have a list of DHEP-free and PVC-free medical supplies as alternatives but am not sure they’d work with me on it.
Any helpful advice? Thanks you! I meet with the doctor on Aug. 30, 2017.
Debra’s Answer
Readers? Any suggestions?
I fortunately have not had the need to experience this, so have nothing to offer.
But what comes to mind is perhaps Healthcare Without Harm can help you, or Practice Greenhealth. Both organizations advocate the removal of toxic chemicals from healthcare.
I’ve been told that the Environmental Health Center in Dallas (214.368.4132) recommends an alternative type of colonoscopy prep for MCS persons. One would have to call to learn what the alternative is.
Used to be a compounding pharmacy in Dallas that Dr Rea would use at the Environmental Health Center called Abrams Pharmacy – they were extremely versed in non-toxic medical supplies and often sold Tygon tubing and glass IV bottles but they may have gone out of business.
When I get an IV i request Bayer saline bags instead of Baxter which I believe uses PVC. You have to call the companies and enquire.
Colleen,
I hope all turns out well for you. I know my self and many others would appreciate it if you’d let us know what you find and how it all works out for you. There are so many of us out here with the same issues and concerns.
Thanks and Good luck, MB
I don’t have experience with this, but I suggest asking your medical care team as soon as possible to do their best to accommodate your needs. It’s not much notice for the August 30th appointment, if they are doing the colonoscopy that day…but you can always try. Good luck! 🙂
Hello Colleen,
I tried Tygon plastic tubing as a less reactive medical tubing for oxygen therapy. That brand of tubing may help and is not very expensive.
However, it did not work for me, so used stainless steel tubing with an older regulator. One old regulator was in storage. Perhaps the medical facility you are seeing has some ‘antiquated’ equipment for such a need; glass IV bottles, stainless steel tubing, or other accommodations that might be available.
I believe I ordered the stainless steel tubing from a company in Texas (AEF or something like that, sorry it was not in my contacts list any longer).
An Environmental Ecologist Physician may be able to help with more information. There is a clinic in Dallas, TX that specializes in treating patients with chemical sensitivities. They may be able to address your questions better, and know of a doctor in your area that treats patients with chemical sensitivities that could be of assistance in suggesting alternative equipment to use and where your clinic might obtain it.
I also wanted to share with you our experience with our daughter. She regularly bled rectaly, and had colonoscopies in high school and in college. She saw specialists, but no one could determine the cause. She happened to try the Whole 30 diet a few years ago which includes eliminating all grains, and her digestive issues and bleeding ceased. As long as she avoids grains she feels well and her elimination is normal. I included this story not as an answer for you as everyone is unique, but only to share what helped our daughter so much.
Also, don’t be nervous about the procedure itself. The staff is usually very good at maintaining your sense of privacy and modesty. You will be asleep and when you awaken it will be all over. I hope this helps, and that all goes well with you.