Pretty worried right now.My grandad is 86. Has type 2 diabetes and so has regular bloods. In a blood test about 3 months ago, the GP noticed his iron was low. They re tested it again and it was falling dramatically. He feels tired and breathless also. He did a FIT stool test and it came back as 200.
This is cancer isn't it ? I am so scared for him.
FIT test is a marker for blood. Its not a specific diagnosis for a particular disease, I believe. Will he undergo tests like endoscopy?
Yes , They have suggested colonoscopy. He is an elderly man and it’s such a harsh procedure. I have had one myself as have ulcerative colitis but the difference is, I’m in my thirties.
Thanks for your reply
Hi Fenella34,
Thanks for posting with us. I'm sorry to hear about what your grandad is having to go through. You definitely need an answer for receiving the positive FIT. It could be a lot of different things happening besides the big "C". The source of the blood detected by the FIT needs to be determined and treated and stop the dramatic iron drop. Yes for the colonoscopy. It is a harsh prep to go through but will definitely get you some good answers. I get one annually and look forward to the full sedation propofol nap👍. I had low iron when I was on a clinical trial and it ended up being an ulcer in my duodenum. To find that, I had to get an endoscopy.
Does ulcerative colitis run in your family? All the symptom your grandad has are symptoms for that as well.
I do wish you the best in finding out what's going on. I hope you get some good answers soon and get him on the path to being well very soon.
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.
Thank you. He had a CT scan today so now just got to wait for results
Thank you. We are in the UK so doubt he would be put to sleep for a colonscopy even if requested.Yes. His sister (my great aunt) had crohns and me, Ulcerative colitis. He hasn't had any significant bowel issues though. Just the feeling tired, breathless and now a positive FIT test of 200. He had a CT scan today so now just a case of waiting it out. Feel so bad for him.
Am worried for him that it is bowel cancer. He is 86 and frail. The treatment will be so rough on him. 😔 trying to stay hopeful but it's tough.
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