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Is a colonoscopy ever too risky?
How cautious should a 79-year-old man with peripheral neuropathy and the symptoms of post-sepsis syndrome be if his PCP has suggested he get a colonoscopy? Since colonoscopies require a preliminary interview when a patient is over 75, and septic re-infection is all too common, I’m wondering how cautious I should be when I sit down for a preliminary interview. Has anyone else been in a similar situation with anything resembling a similar medical history?
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Hello @dunbun13, I just had what I think may be my last colonoscopy at age 82. I also had one in 2022 and was nervous about having this last one due to the problems I had with the previous procedure. This time I did an extended preparation and the colonoscopy went smoothly. I also had anesthesia and went out like a light and woke up shortly after the procedure feeling very good. I think it is pretty normal to be nervous when we get a little older.
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8 ReactionsThank you so much, I am feeling a little better about it after your comments. I so appreciate all the information I get through here.
Thanks again
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5 ReactionsI have had precancerous polyps in the past so I was told to do another one in 5 years when I would be 82. I did a consult at Mayo first to see if I should go ahead with it given my age and my lung and breathing issues (safety for general anesthesia). They said yes and I had it and I am glad I did because they removed 3 precancerous polyps 2, 10 and 12 mm (the most and the largest I have every had at one time). They told me to repeat in 3 years when I will be 85!
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7 ReactionsThank you for sharing!
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1 ReactionI had my second colonoscopy about a year ago, which was 5 years after the first one was done. I was given the all clear, and told I wouldn't need another one for 10 years. By then, I'll be 75 and wonder if it'll be necessary at that point. Assuming I live that long.
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3 ReactionsI believe that it’s a personal decision based upon your family history or your own health history.
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3 ReactionsThanks so much, yes I am hoping the Dr does not suggest one, but since Colitis has worsened I think they will probably recommend one.
Thanks for sharing.
The National Cancer Institute has an article you might be interested in that directly addresses colonoscopy and age:
- Should People Over Age 75 Be Screened for Colorectal Cancer? https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2021/colorectal-cancer-screening-people-older-than-75
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4 ReactionsI know two women who lost their husbands to colon cancer - both had not been screened.
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1 ReactionWhat is the Baking Soda and water remedy recipe ?
Does it work as effectively as the standard cleansing medications?