Blood in Stool: Should You Get a Full Colonoscopy? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Blood in Stool: Should You Get a Full Colonoscopy?

Hello： If you still experience rectal bleeding or other symptoms, you may consider undergoing a colonoscopy. <br>Wishing you safety and health. <br>Dr. <br>Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Blood in stool 2

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have occasionally noticed blood streaks in my stool, likely due to holding in my bowel movements and delaying defecation.
In my previous inquiry, I mentioned that I underwent a sigmoidoscopy in March of this year.
The doctor indicated that during a colonoscopy two and a half years ago, polyps were found in the sigmoid colon, and during the recent procedure, the doctor examined the area near the splenic flexure and confirmed that there were no new polyps.
I would like to know if, given that a complete colonoscopy was not performed, I can rule out the possibility of other tumors based on my condition.
Should I consider undergoing a full colonoscopy for further evaluation?

Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/11/27

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If you still experience rectal bleeding or other symptoms, you may consider undergoing a colonoscopy.
Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/11/27

More Info

When it comes to the presence of blood in the stool, it is essential to take this symptom seriously, as it can indicate various underlying conditions, some of which may require prompt medical attention. In your case, since you have previously undergone a sigmoidoscopy and a colonoscopy that revealed polyps in the sigmoid colon, it is prudent to consider a full colonoscopy for a comprehensive evaluation.

Understanding the Need for a Full Colonoscopy
1. Potential Causes of Blood in Stool: Blood in the stool can arise from several sources, including hemorrhoids, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), polyps, or colorectal cancer. Given your history of polyps, it is particularly important to rule out any new growths or changes in the colon.

2. Limitations of Sigmoidoscopy: A sigmoidoscopy examines only the lower part of the colon (the sigmoid colon and rectum). While it can identify issues in this area, it does not provide a complete picture of the entire colon. Since you have experienced blood in your stool, a full colonoscopy would allow for a thorough examination of the entire colon, increasing the likelihood of detecting any abnormalities.

3. Follow-Up on Previous Findings: Your last colonoscopy was two and a half years ago, and although no new polyps were found at that time, the risk of developing new polyps or other lesions increases with age and certain risk factors. Regular surveillance is crucial, especially if you have a history of polyps.

Recommendations
- Consult Your Physician: Given your symptoms and medical history, it is advisable to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation and determine whether a full colonoscopy is warranted based on your current symptoms and previous findings.

- Consider Timing: If you continue to notice blood in your stool or if it worsens, it is essential to seek medical attention sooner rather than later. Early detection of any potential issues can lead to more effective treatment options.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms you may experience, such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, weight loss, or fatigue. These can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
In summary, while your previous sigmoidoscopy provided some insights, the presence of blood in your stool warrants further investigation through a full colonoscopy. This procedure will help ensure that any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any changes in your health, and do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel uncertain about your diagnosis or treatment plan.

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