Colon prep requires several days of low-fiber diet, causing constipation and possible painful diverticulitis flare-up. Last colonoscopy was 7 years ago, no polyps. Anxiety motivated me to ask for another one after 3 family members diagnosed with colon cancer. However, all were determined to be sporadic cancers, ie, not genetic. And colonoscopies are recommended every 10 years. I’m now re-thinking if I should proceed; I’ve read about the elevated risks of colonoscopy for those over 70 (the recommended cut-off for these screenings is age 75). I'm obese, have high blood pressure (well controlled) and pre-diabetes (controlled with diet). Sometimes my pulse dips to 40-42 momentarily, but heart monitoring two years ago indicated nothing serious. My resting pulse is 60-65, though I’m not an active person. I read where the fluid loss during the prep, even while trying to stay hydrated, can cause an electrolyte imbalance. In seniors, that could lead to a cardiovascular event. Then there’s the risk of a perforated colon with the procedure or even with a diverticulitis flare. I decided to cancel my appointment for the scheduled procedure and instead, made an appointment to discuss these issues with my primary care doctor. Perhaps a less invasive screening would be preferable? Would love to know folks’ thoughts and experiences. Thanks!
Whether or not you choose to proceed with the test, should be based on what you would do it the results were positive for cancer. If you would choose to have treatment, then have the test. If you would not have treatment, then why have the test?
My step Dad was in his mid 70's when he was diagnosed with colon cancer. He did have surgery and was given the all clear. When he was 84, the cancer metastasized and he died less than 2 months later.
Sorry I have no personal details because mine is set for July. There is prep but it is less invasive. Check with your Doc to see if it might work in your situation. Good luck.
That said, the johnshopkins site suggests that this CT scan might actually "see" areas of the large intestine a regular colonoscopy can't access. Pros and cons:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/colon-cancer/virtual-colonoscopy-for-cancer-screening
There is that box test. Maybe try that and if comes up positive then have the colonoscopy.
My SIL is a GI doc and routinely does colonoscopies, obviously. He has said that he has a chat with his 'over 70' patients to see if they need one. The worries of problems really escalate with age, and he may actually deny someone one or opt for another procedure.
10 years between screenings is what is usually reccomended, unless you have problems.
Right now I’m suffering on 2nd day with severe constipation because I started the pre-prep low-fiber/residue diet last weekend. Feels like my innards are about to burst. Miralax hasn’t kicked in yet - body’s poo-plumbing has stopped. Nothing’s moving - this was predictable, as this happens when I skip fiber. Drinking plenty of water, which runs out of me because I take a diuretic for bp. Mentioned constipation issues at pre-colonoscopy meeting with gastroenterologist’s office. Hoping I don’t end up in ER.
Thanks again!