Should You Get a Colonoscopy After Experiencing Blood in Stool? - Surgery

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Experiencing blood in your stool can be concerning, and it's understandable to have questions about whether you should undergo a colonoscopy, especially given your history of rectal bleeding in 2016 and 2017. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the situation.

First, it's important to understand that blood in the stool can arise from various causes, ranging from benign conditions to more serious issues. Common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticular disease, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, it can also be a sign of more serious conditions, such as colorectal cancer or polyps, particularly in individuals over the age of 50 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer.

In your case, since you experienced blood in your stool twice in 2016 and 2017, it would be prudent to consider a colonoscopy, even though your fecal occult blood test was negative. A negative result on this test does not completely rule out the possibility of significant pathology, especially if the bleeding was intermittent or if there were other symptoms present, such as changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain.

The recommendation for a colonoscopy is generally based on several factors:
1. Age: If you are over 45, routine screening for colorectal cancer is recommended.

2. Symptoms: Persistent or recurrent symptoms, such as blood in the stool, warrant further investigation.

3. Family History: A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps increases your risk and may necessitate earlier screening.

4. Previous Findings: If you have had previous episodes of bleeding, even if they were not linked to a serious condition, it may be wise to investigate further.

Given your history of rectal bleeding, even if it was years ago, and the fact that you have had two episodes, a colonoscopy could provide peace of mind and help rule out any serious conditions. It is a safe and effective procedure that allows for direct visualization of the colon and rectum, and it can also facilitate the removal of polyps if found.

Moreover, if you have any new symptoms or changes in your health status, such as increased frequency of bleeding, changes in stool consistency, or abdominal discomfort, these would further support the need for a colonoscopy.

In conclusion, while your doctor may have assessed your previous episodes and deemed them not concerning, it is always within your rights as a patient to seek a second opinion or request further testing if you feel uneasy. Discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider can help clarify the need for a colonoscopy based on your individual risk factors and medical history. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.