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Is a colonoscopy ever too risky?

Digestive Health | Last Active: 4 days ago | Replies (19)
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@pianist3

Hi, Ray!

I would personally not get a colonoscopy at age 75, especially with your conditions, unless you’re having symptoms or you have a family history. I think it’s risky the older we get and I believe the prep and procedure are very stressful on the body and can disrupt our natural gut microbiome. I’d say keep on keeping on, eat well, walk daily, think positive and stay blessed! Also, in Europe they test much less frequently, and I think worry and invasive tests stress the body; medicine should focus more on prevention in the forms of meditation, healthy eating, and exercise, instead of more testing. Hope this helps!! Blessings to you!!! Mia

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Replies to "Hi, Ray! I would personally not get a colonoscopy at age 75, especially with your conditions,..."
Ray Kemble | @ray666 | 6 days ago

Hi, Mia!

Thank you for your perspective. I'm certainly not eager to get a colonoscopy. I've had my share over the years. I believe the only reason my PCP thought it might be a good idea, even at my age, is my only slightly low red blood count.

But for several years, I've been taking delayed-release diclofenac, prescribed by my orthopedist to reduce arthritic pain in my knees (it's worked wonders, by the way), plus a daily 81 mm aspirin, both of which may cause GI bleeding.

A hematologist, looking at my low RBC, advised I quit both the diclofenac and the aspirin. He suggested that those two drugs may have been suppressed my RBC. Otherwise, I can report no signs of any GI trouble.

I agree with what you say: fewer tests, a good diet, exercise, and insofar as possible a stress-free life.

Cheers!
Ray (@ray666)

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