Should You Get a Colonoscopy? Your Digestive Health

Should a colonoscopy be performed?

Hello, doctor.
I previously mentioned that I had an issue with mucus in my stool, which has improved significantly.
Recently, I've noticed that my stools have been well-formed, about the size of a 5 to 50 NT dollar coin, and over 15 centimeters long, with no other symptoms.
However, a doctor at a nearby clinic diagnosed me and recommended a colonoscopy to check for irritable bowel syndrome, as I have experienced those symptoms for a while.
I've been taking medication, which has helped, but I still feel discomfort in my intestines, especially when the weather changes.
Sometimes my stools are well-formed, and other times they are not, or I have difficulty passing them, but there is no blood in my stool or other symptoms.
Do you think I still need to undergo a colonoscopy? I have one scheduled for next Tuesday, and I’ve been feeling hesitant about it.
Given the trend of younger individuals developing gastrointestinal diseases, I thought it might be good to get checked.
Please provide me with your advice.

L, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/03/23

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Dear Mr./Ms.
L,
I recommend that you schedule a colonoscopy, as it will provide you with peace of mind if everything is normal.
Furthermore, if there are no issues, it may indicate that you are experiencing irritable bowel syndrome.
Therefore, I strongly suggest completing the colonoscopy.

Thank you for your inquiry.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Yang Chih-Chao
Changhua Hospital

Reply Date: 2012/03/23

More Info

When considering whether to undergo a colonoscopy, especially in the context of digestive health concerns, it's essential to weigh the symptoms you're experiencing against the potential benefits of the procedure. Based on the information you've provided, it seems that you have been experiencing some gastrointestinal issues, including changes in stool consistency and discomfort, which have improved with medication. However, the recommendation from your local physician to have a colonoscopy suggests that they believe further investigation is warranted.

Colonoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool that allows physicians to visualize the interior of the colon and rectum. It can help identify various conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, polyps, and colorectal cancer. Given that you have a family history of colorectal cancer, with your grandfather having passed away from the disease, it is understandable that you might feel anxious about your own risk. While your father is currently healthy, family history can still play a role in your risk assessment.

The symptoms you describe, such as the presence of mucus in your stool and fluctuations in stool consistency, can be indicative of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is often diagnosed based on symptoms rather than definitive tests. However, a colonoscopy can help rule out more serious conditions, including colorectal cancer, especially since you are in an age group where awareness of these issues is increasingly important due to rising incidence rates among younger individuals.

Regarding your concerns about the procedure itself, it's worth noting that modern advancements in colonoscopy techniques have made the procedure more comfortable than in the past. Options such as sedation can help alleviate discomfort during the examination. While there are risks associated with colonoscopy, such as perforation or bleeding, these complications are relatively rare. The benefits of early detection of potential issues often outweigh these risks, particularly in individuals with concerning symptoms or family histories.

If you are still feeling hesitant about the procedure, consider discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can provide more personalized advice based on your medical history and current symptoms. Additionally, if you are looking for non-invasive alternatives, stool tests for blood or other markers can be performed, but these may not provide the same level of detail as a colonoscopy.

In summary, given your symptoms, family history, and the recommendation from your physician, it would be prudent to proceed with the colonoscopy. It can provide peace of mind and potentially identify any underlying issues that may need to be addressed. Remember, early detection is key in managing digestive health effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Recent Digestive Issues: When to Consider a Colonoscopy

I have been experiencing frequent bloating in my lower abdomen, along with lower back pain and discomfort. My stools have been soft and not formed, and recently I have noticed undigested food in my stool. I had a stool occult blood test done at a clinic recently, and the results ...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Lower back pain is not necessarily related to gastrointestinal issues. However, gastroenteritis and indigestion do exist. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist. Wishing you safety and health. Dr. Chen Qi-Feng, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospit...

Excessive Gas: Should You Get a Colonoscopy for Your Symptoms?

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you something! I have been experiencing continuous flatulence for almost a year now. I don't have any abdominal pain, but I keep passing gas, and if I eat vegetables, my stool contains vegetable matter. Should I consider getting a colonosco...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, it is normal for a healthy person to produce a significant amount of gas in the intestines daily, and this gas is usually expelled unconsciously. When one becomes aware of passing gas (flatulence), it often indicates an excess of gas production in the intestines. Generally...

Should You Get a Colonoscopy After Experiencing Rectal Bleeding?

Hello doctor, I had blood in my stool twice before, but I haven't had any bleeding since, and I don't have any abdominal pain. I went to see a doctor, who performed a digital rectal examination but did not recommend a colonoscopy. The doctor prescribed me medication for...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
At the age of 28, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is not zero, but generally speaking, it is relatively low. Therefore, if symptoms improve, a colonoscopy is typically not recommended. It is advisable to maintain a light diet and uphold good lifestyle habits. If sy...

Should You Get a Colonoscopy for Blood in Stool and Abdominal Pain?

Hello, doctor. For the past three months, I have noticed blood in my stool about once a month. The amount is small, but it is bright red and somewhat sticky. There is no blood when I wipe after using the toilet. I usually experience abdominal pain in the morning before going to w...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You can first consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist for an evaluation to determine if a colonoscopy is necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.