This topic revolves around a person who is dealing with some health concerns related to their digestive system. They are experiencing frequent stools with black edges, which is unusual for them and not linked to any specific food or medication. They are also worried about the possibility of pancreatitis and are facing challenges with undergoing a colonoscopy due to a parastomal hernia and a tender stoma. Here are some insights and advice that might be helpful:

1. The main concern is the black color of the stool. This can be alarming, but it might be related to dietary factors or dehydration. It's important to remember that the body's response can change over time, so even if dehydration hasn't caused discoloration before, it might now.

2. The person has had a Cologuard test recently, which was negative for colorectal cancer. They are also considering relying on stool cultures and tests like Cologuard or FIT instead of a colonoscopy, especially given the risks associated with their condition.

3. They are planning to increase their water intake, which is a good step since hydration can impact stool color and overall health.

4. The person is anxious about undergoing a colonoscopy through the stoma due to the risk of pain and perforation, especially with a looped bowel. It's suggested that pain during such procedures is often due to the parastomal hernia, and asking for deeper or additional anesthesia or sedation might help in staying pain-free.

5. In the past, endoscopy and colonoscopy were done together under general anesthesia, but now they require two separate specialists and in-hospital preparation. The current gastroenterologist is hesitant to perform the procedure due to the risk of perforation.

6. Modern endoscopy units offer better sedation options than before, which can make the procedure more comfortable. Many patients find that they wake up unaware that the procedure has been done, suggesting that comfort is achievable with the right sedation.