Bowel screening

Hello Birdie

I now have a stoma but prior to that I used to bleed really easily too, sometimes even without passing a hard stool.  I alerted the screening service that I was undergoing treatment and haven't heard from them since (probably too old).

I had a CT colonography instead of a colonoscopy prior to having a stoma formed.  This was after having a very painful colonoscopy some years prior.  That showed that I had extensive radiation proctitis which also causes bleeding.

Sorry if this is not much help to you, just relaying my own experience.

Hopefully some others will pick up on your post too.

Irene xx

Hi Birdie,

Sorry that you have had a positive result and can absolutely understand that you don’t want to put yourself through any unnecessary and uncomfortable testing. Understandably it’s a worry.

There was some discussion on this a little while ago on the forum and although I can’t remember exactly, I think it was the very helpful and informative Nikki who recommended getting in touch with the screening team to explain your situation and medical history.

The tests are sent out purely in an age related basis and don’t cross reference with any medical history. 

As there is likely a clear explanation for the traces of blood being detected and you are already being monitored, a discussion would likely avoid the need for a colonoscopy. 

Hope you can call them and get advice. 

Wishing you well with finding answers. Xx

Thankyou both for replying. Your replies are very helpful. 

Hi Birdie9132 ,

I was advised to inform the bowel screening unit prior to my last test (2 years ago) about my diagnosis & subsequent treatment. When I spoke to one of the nurses she said due to my history not to be surprised to get called for further tests as the bowel screening only detects the presence of blood but not where it’s come from. Thankfully mine came back normal but I’ve another test sat there waiting to be done now. I think should it detect any blood at all I would go for further testing just to put my mind at rest but that’s a very individual decision. 

Nicola 

Thanks for replying.

The practitioner I spoke to was aware of my history, but didn't seem to consider it (or just my impression - hard to gauge over the phone).

I've emailed my oncology team, so will see what they advise.

Best wishes x

Hi again Birdie9132 , I’ll be doing my sample probably this weekend & although I very rarely bleed these days I go into it expecting a call back, anything other than that is a bonus. The slight difference for me is that I’m 7 years post treatment & no longer under surveillance so a little extra reassurance is always welcome. I hope you receive some helpful advice from your oncologist. 

Nicola