Whether to have another colonoscopy
Posted , 6 users are following.
I am 80 years old and had two colonoscopies in the past 6 months - many polyps were removed including a large one. I was told that they were all pre-cancerous, and that I wouldn't ever need to have another colonoscopy. The surgeon's reasoning was that it takes 10 years for polyps to develop into cancer, and by then I would be 90. Since I have had a heart attack some years ago, I probably won't live much longer than that anyway. Besides the risks of colon puncture and/or another heart attack due to the stress of a colonoscopy would not be worth the risk. But I think that I should have another colonoscopy, what do you think.
1 like, 5 replies
SteV3 donothorpe
Posted
If you feel it would put your mind at rest I would opt for another colonoscopy. I know they can be uncomfortable, I have had them myself and I am only 50. It can be stressful whether or not you have more polyps, and stating 10 years seems a long period of time to me.
Other people on here may have different opinions, but if you had cancer previously like myself, I would definitely ask for a second opinion - it is better to be safe than sorry.
I had a colonoscopy at Xmas last year and they removed one polyp, I was lucky it was not cancerous. About 6 years ago I was being treated for an infection, turned out 6 weeks later I was misdiagnosed and I did in fact have cancer. Go by your instinct not the surgeon, and put your mind at rest.
Regards,
Les.
barbara09908 donothorpe
Posted
margaret91698 donothorpe
Posted
Margaret
babs49935 donothorpe
Posted
joe10258 donothorpe
Posted
I worked in the health field for decades, though, and I have seen that people age differently. Some people are frail at age 55, others at 95. Part of it also depends on how well you tolerated previous colonoscopies, and of course, the skill of the doctor operating the colonoscopy device. If you are confident with the skill of your gastroenterologist, then stick with him. If he isn't available, then be VERY carefull on whom you choose to do a colonoscopy.
Personally, I am in the camp of leaving well enough alone, but it's your decision.