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.