do I need a colonoscopy?

Cancer
1

My father died aged 88 of bowel cancer. I am 58 years old and have no symptons but at a private medical I was advised to have one as a family member had it. Should I have one or a CT colonography or just have a stool blood count?

2

Yes have a colonoscopy for peace of mind ,my surgeon did mine without anaesthetic ,or sedative so you can watch it on monitor , no pain whatsoever, good luck

steve

3

Agreed.

4

Hi Andrew

i know other replies to you have suggested a colonoscopy, but as you don't have any symptons I would think a stool count checking for blood would be a good option, t his would show up possible problems and a colonoscopy would follow as a matter of course.  However, all advice given on this site is good advice and you must decide what to follow.  I have had a colonoscopy and didn't find it a pleasant experience, but then I am a bit of a wimp.  Unfortunately cancer was found and all the treatments and a major op followed.  But 6 months later I am now completely clear.  

Keep abreast of this disease Andrew and you will win out.  You sound very sensible and I am sure whichever procedure you choose will keep you fit and healthy.  Good Luck

Margaret

5

many thanks for your quick reply ...

6

Hello Margaret

many thanks for your reply. I too am a bit of a wimp and will think long and hard before making a decision.Very pleased to hear you are now completely clear.best regards Andrew

7

Hi Andrew I'm sure your not a wimp but yes it us a little uncomfortable and I to had cancer, I had the op key hole and I am ok now, but have to have another colonoscopy in April as a matter of course, at least with a colonoscopy you can see what is going on, any way as margeret said everyone only wants to give you helpfull advise, as we have all been there and worried. All I can say is bowel cancer is easier to treat than other cancers . Good luck

steve

8

Yes, some bowel cancers can be 'dealt with' successfully. Mine was an emergency, a complete blockage with a lot of build up (4 to 5 litres I was told!) but the whole lot was removed, then the joining up and waiting for biopsy results. Which were all good. Curative surgery I think he called it. It doesn't look like you should have any problems though, but as others have said, some sort of test to put your mind at rest?