what questions to ask

[LinC1]

Had some low abdominal pain 3 months ago + stools were softer/mushy. QFIT and CT scan were normal and physical exam showed only a small haemorrhoid. I’d recently changed diet (to total vegetarian) and was also caring for very sick partner. Consultant thought it was all down to these.

Things settled down, but in last week or so I had an episode of bright red blood on wiping + feeling of pressure/discomfort in bottom.

I have GP appointment next week, but am concerned - is it possible that a CT, qFIT and physical rectal + abdominal exam would have missed cancer? Should I have pushed for a colonoscopy? What questions should I ask next week to make sure I’m getting the right answers - I’m trying to be logical, but worry something awful has been missed and I’m now 3 months further on!

[GCCA-Survivor Administrator]

Hi LinC1,

Thank You for posting on Colon Cancer Connected. The CT and the colonoscopy have their independent purposes. You definitely could have missed something without a colonoscopy. I have to get an annual colonoscopy, annual CT scan and blood testing. That is my surveillance as a stage 4 colon cancer survivor with Lynch Syndrome.

By the time I had symptoms, I was stage 4. That was at age 49. That tumor that blocked the colonoscopy scope was a polyp at age 43. Given the signs that were missed, I should have had a colonoscopy at age 34. That would have been due to the family history.

The colonoscopy can catch things not visible to the CT scan like polyps and possible inner wall lining things that may need to be biopsied. Both have there purposes different usefulness.

Does your family have a history that would need to be considered? Abdominal pain is another symptom for a colonoscopy. I would ask the doctor since you had the other tests and still had progression of symptoms, what other tests are there to get you answers and on a path to getting well? What you are experiencing could be caused by many things other than cancer. Maybe a sigmoidoscopy is in order? That's for the lower part of the intestine which is the area you are describing in your issues.

I do wish you the best in getting answers. I am glad to see you are also being proactive in finding those answers as well. And do let us know what you find out as this can be helpful to others who may find themselves in the same situation.

Thank You,

~Tom, GCCA Survivor - Colon Cancer Connected Site Administrator.

Just a reminder - this group is here to offer support, share experiences, and offer our thoughts - but this is not medical advice, and you should always consult your medical professional(s). Additionally, for all emergencies, seek urgent medical care, never delay.