(Undiagnosed) Colonoscopy and FIT test

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(30 male) Finally spoke to a GP today, who is going to get me in for a colonoscopy. He wants me to do a FIT test first, and if that's positive I'll be put on 2wk referral. But even if it's negative, he'll book me in for a colonoscopy anyway, just less urgent.

Symptoms for over a month: Night sweats, colic abdominal pain, back pain on same side, change in bowel habits, uti symptoms (but no infection). Calprotectin-blood clear. Had a urgent CT scan abdo/pelvis a few weeks ago due to other issues, showed nothing.

All of that is to say, I'm concerned the only remaining untested reason that could be causing all of this is bowel cancer.

Also terrified about the procedure/prep, but I'm glad it's sorted. I was expecting to go in prepared to fight to get it, but the GP was great.

Thankyou for letting me post. Any insights or advice would help greatly!

KDK99 over 1 year ago

Hi there. Im 52, female, going through the same process as you. The 2 week is at them moment, in my area, taking about 13 weeks to get from initial GP referral to going in for the colonoscopy.

I’ve picked up the meds they got ready for me and I’m just waiting for a phone call to tell me when to go in.

There is a very good video that shows you the whole procedure so you know what you’re looking at if they show you the screen (that displays what the camera is showing).

You will get some answers on that day possibly, but other things may need to go off for testing.

I’m trying to stay relaxed, as anything else just adds to the stress. Because they don’t actually talk to you through the entire process, you’ll prob have to let them know if you have additional needs. There is a scoring 0-5 where 0 is completely able bodied and independent, to 5 (unable to do anything for themselves). Im probably a 3, but they have me as a 0. This means they’re unaware I use a wheelchair, have difficulty lying on my left hand side, have dual splints on arms, and have carers that come in everyday to help me at home. So the 2ww May speed things up, but there should be at least one conversation (perhaps on the phone) or even a questionnaire sent to patients to ask about their mobility. Now I have to get an appt with my GP so they can tell the colonoscopy people amount my physical limitations. So quick diagnostic assessment (although I’ve yet to hear of someone who was seen/spoken within 2 weeks), but a complete loss of patient awareness, interaction ~ which can create more stress and anxiety for patients.

I hope things go as well as they can do for you.

Karen W