Cologuard Test
Posted by Otherwise-Meaning-90@reddit | GenX | View on Reddit | 426 comments
I’m in my late 40’s and did a Cologuard test at the end of January and it came back negative. Still had some weird pain in my gut and went to a gastroenterologist. He said I definitely need a colonoscopy and I got it done today. I had 4 polyps. Three of them were 8 mm and one was 3 mm. Since they were not bleeding or shedding abnormal DNA colorguard did not catch them. Those could’ve easily turned to cancer by the time I got screened again, so there really is no substitute for a colonoscopy.
ablebody_95@reddit
Get the colonoscopy folks. The prep wasn’t terrible. It’s not fun, but it’s a blip on the radar. The worst part was them trying to get the IV in. I have great veins (a phlebotomist’s dream according to my last phlebotomist), but being dehydrated from the prep made them difficult. It took them four tries and each one was painful 😣
KABCatLady@reddit
Getting my first one done on Monday!
Kal_El_77@reddit
Definitely try and stay as hydrated as possible or you'll feel a little crappy by the time you check in.
KABCatLady@reddit
Will do, thank you!!🙏
Kal_El_77@reddit
Just did my first one. Prep kinda sucked. Was pretty dehydrated by the time I checked in for procedure. Definitely need to plan better next time. Other that it was nothing really.
apollemis1014@reddit
Oh God, this. The first nurse who tried to insert the iv kept digging around. They were thinking they'd have to use my hand (no thanks!), then another nurse tried and got it right away. I really try to be patient with folks who are learning, but I'd rather not have it be someone taking blood/giving an injection/trying to insert an IV.
fallcreekprepper@reddit
Depends on how they have you do the prep really. I had to do the bottle of MiraLAX and Dulcolax tablets. It wasn't too bad, but once it starts working, it is pretty much ON for a couple of hours, and after that, don't trust a fart until it is all over. I've known people who had to take the bottle of clear stuff, and that one is horrible from what I have been told. I've also known people who were given a single pill, they said it isn't that bad at all.
On a personal level, the worst part of the whole thing for me was the IV. I detest needles, so I always hate that part of anything. Even that wouldn't have been so bad if the nurse hadn't had to stick me twice. She blew out the first vein (I've never had that happen before)
ImaSource@reddit
I did the pill prep and it wasn't bad. But I definitely second telling everyone - Get the damn test done.
lizardking073@reddit
This is what I do, and it helps. I'm considered high risk, since my father died of metastasized colo-rectal cancer, so I've been getting them every 5 years since since I was 35.
Not sure if they are all doing this now, but the last few times prep was much less unpleasant, since they moved away from the stimulant laxatives. Those seem to be the source of most of the cramping that was so painful.
Massive_Effect_1956@reddit
Colonoscopy is like the easiest thing you will do as you age health wise.
oceanView229@reddit
My collaguard test came back false positive. Due to occult blood in stool.
Never use that again. It still took several weeks to get colostomy scheduled.
Kal_El_77@reddit
Mines came back positive so I had to do a colonoscopy. My coworker was doing Cologuard tests and they were always negative. He ended up dying from Colon cancer. Gastro doc said not to trust cologuard tests.
bored-now@reddit
Day 2 of my colonoscopy prep today, getting the “up periscope” tomorrow afternoon.
My cologuard test came back with abnormalities, so I’m hoping it is something easily resolved.
kookapo@reddit
I just lost my dad to colon cancer. A man who did NOT get the colonoscopies he should have. Get them. Please get them. It is not a fun way to go. And they really aren't anything. You're hungry for a day, you poop a lot, then they knock you out, and it's over. They got a couple of growths during my first one at 50 and I've been clear since. If my dad had ever gone, maybe he'd still be here now.
SuchCombination3213@reddit
Last year, for 12 months I had chronic diarrhea and had lost 45 lbs by the end of the year. I am 70, and my doctor wanted to do both an upper and lower GI, which would have cost me $400 deductible so I never had it done due to expense. Still have the issue, but at least not every day. I just found out that the weight loss and diarrhea were due to a walnut sized non-cancerous tumor that totally surrounds my pituitary gland, which is no longer visible. With all of these medical experts, they were not even on the right track for what is really wrong with me. Because the glad is obscured, it no longer is able to produce testosterone or cortisol. I suppose when I finally have the appointment with the brain doctors, I will be put on some sort of injection process. Getting old sucks, and 2.5 months for an appointment is absolutely a pile of crap (lol).
sofa_king_weetawded@reddit
Well shit. That's not encouraging. I was hoping I was in the clear.
petederner@reddit
I had a positive Cologauard test, then the colonoscopy came out fine. I will never do another Cologuard test.
DryFoundation2323@reddit
I tell everyone I know to get an actual scope. It's just not worth it. I've had two people close to my age that I used to work with die in the last year from colon cancer. Also my brother has struggled for years with precancerous polyps coming back.
JMPolisena@reddit
It was going to cost me $2k out of pocket so I had to suffice with Cologuard for now. Our health insurance should be better for things like this.
penguinwasteland1414@reddit
I found a workaround to this. My insurance was going to charge a couple thousand aa well. At the hospital, the girl said I'm making sure to code your procedure as preventative and not diagnostic.that was the difference between a couple hundred and a couple thousand. I ended up having 2 polyps, both removed. Mom was with me, she died the following month from colon cancer. Good luck!
JMPolisena@reddit
Thank you for that advice!
I'm sorry about your mom. 💔
penguinwasteland1414@reddit
Ty.
WalnutTree80@reddit
I had a false positive with Cologuard and ended up having to do the colonoscopy anyway. It was completely clear. But I was out $1300 because my insurance said it was diagnostic and I have a high deductible.
My husband had false negatives on the two Cologuards he's done, because he did have a polyp.
Defiant-Variety-9473@reddit
Only about 5% to 10% of all polyps actually turn into cancer, so really wasn't a false negative.
WalnutTree80@reddit
But it was bleeding though, so the box test should have picked it up. He had the colonoscopy because he was anemic.
SkippyPippi@reddit
This is why me and my husband elected to get colonoscopies instead or Cologuard testing. Colonoscopy was covered under preventative care as was Cologuard, but if Cologuard had flagged anything, we would still have to do the colonoscopy at the diagnostic rate.
Rand_74@reddit
I’ve been getting colonoscopies every 3 years since 2011. I’m 52 now. My brother was 39 in 2010. He was very sick, didn’t know what was going, but he was having symptoms for about a year, and he was drastically declining. He had no insurance. We were able to get him a colonoscopy and sure enough he had about a massive tumor attached the wall of his colon, and it had started to metastasize on the wall of his stomach. He had to have emergency surgery which brought in complications due to his poor health and malnutrition and nourishment. He went septic and spent 3 weeks in ICU. He’s alive and cancer free now. Had a colostomy bag for a year so he could heal up and be out back together. To wrap this up, the cologaurd situation puts off many false negatives. You have to “get up in there” The prep sucks for a colonoscopy, but so does shitting in a bag attached to your abdomen
Onslaught7676@reddit
Have my next Colonoscopy in 3 weeks. There’s no more fluid prep, it’s capsules according to my Gastroenterologist. Hopefully it’ll make the day before more bearable.
rogueknits@reddit
I’ve been having colonoscopies since my 30s, with history of polyps, so not a candidate for Cologard. My husband, though, did it for his first (age 45) screening. Ended up with a “needs further testing” result and had to do the colonoscopy anyway, with no polyps found. So, yeah, I’d just go right for the colonoscopy and be sure either way.
Sheweb@reddit
Thanks for sharing. I too did the Cologuard and it came back fine. After informing my family doctor about the history of colon cancer in my family history, he recommended a colonoscopy to get a more thorough test. Glad you had yours done and were proactive.
Jld114@reddit
My doctor told me that if I had any family history of colon cancer, he would not recommend Cologuard.
Sheweb@reddit
That makes sense. An extra step and not as comprehensive.
Fast_Green_6731@reddit
My doctor told me if Colorguard found anything they would have to do a colonoscopy anyways, so skip the middle man.
Mylastnerve6@reddit
And then it’s diagnostic so insurance may not cover it, and it may be more invasive
QuirkyForever@reddit
I have been trying to get a colonoscopy for 4 or 5 years. Kaiser straight up refused, and my new doc (Adventist) keeps putting off scheduling one. It pisses me off...if I have issues when I finally get one I feel like suing for malpractice. They keep saying "Well, you don't have a family history, blah blah". This is substandard care. I'm 10 years behind on getting one. I'm seeing my doc tomorrow afternoon and I'm going to insist that he schedule me. This is unacceptable. I'm glad you were able to get one. God, I hate US healthcare.
Reference_Freak@reddit
My Kaiser GP just kept sending me the at home tests even though I do have a family history.
I’m working on setting up under my employer’s other terrible provider.
Elegant_Tale_3929@reddit
Tell him you have bleeding in your stool and you want it checked out. If he still refuses then find a different doctor.
lionbacker54@reddit
Thank you for this public service announcement. I am glad they caught yours in time.
DonegalBrooklyn@reddit
My doctor said it's helpful for someone who absolutely won't do colonoscopy - so better than nothing but not where they need to be yet.
I'm terrified of medical "things". It wasn't bad at all, not the procedure OR the prep. People really exaggerated the prep being bad. And the feeling of relief when it's over and you know what's going on in there is huge!
bunchofpants@reddit
The prep can be bad for some people, but not all. I have a few chronic health conditions and the prep is horrible for me. But I know lots of people who have no problem with it. I endure it because I know that I'll be getting that sweet, sweet proposal soon.
moxiemoon@reddit
I really wish they’d stop with the cologuard. It really is not even close to being as reliable as a colonoscopy. It’s just a waste of money and an awkward experience for us all (including them I’m sure).
Background_Big7363@reddit
And your UPS guy or gal, as well.
moxiemoon@reddit
Right!? I didn’t even think of that.
Loki_Fellhand@reddit
The only reason I am alive is I got scoped and they found the tumor. Not a polyp but a tumor. Cologuard did not catch it. Just hit my five year anniversary.
Bigbadmomma@reddit
True story.
My SIL plans to do Cologuard. I just had a colonoscopy at 48 and had 4 precancerous polyps. No substitute for it.
Squid_ProRo@reddit
Got my second colonoscopy last year and agree it’s the way to go. But, I’ve also been shitting in a box and mailing it to people for years! 💩
Zaphod1620@reddit
My dad's doc used cologuard in his later years instead of a colonoscopy. My dad was getting weaker and weaker over a year, but had a clean bill of health. He eventually checked himself into an ER and found out he had stage 4 colon cancer. He died a year later.
sassygirl101@reddit
My doctor told me that if I got a colorguard test that my insurance would not pay for a colonoscopy (within the next year, IF I needed one). I don’t know if that specifically my insurance or just some general rule, but I think that’s quite sad.
Ok_Act4459@reddit
And the insurance companies will just send you the cologuard, hoping you will use that
punycat@reddit
Yep, Kaiser sends tests and reminders. Only they see the result for the same test I can buy and do myself.
pdlpntr@reddit
My doctor explained that if you do a cologuard test and it is positive, the colonoscopy is now considered diagnostic instead of preventative. This increases the cost.
punycat@reddit
That's why I do FIT tests, so that only I know the result. But if any test is positive then likely the colonoscopy will be diagnostic. It has to find no problem to be preventative. Not just no problem known beforehand.
NetworkResponsible98@reddit
Truth 😵💫
JudgeJuryEx78@reddit
I got the Cologuard, but thanks to the many discussions about it in this sub, I'm getting a colonoscopy next time.
Old_Tomorrow5247@reddit
Don’t wait for ‘next time’. You don’t know what you would have found out this time.
Firstcounselor@reddit
My Cologuard came back negative. Brother got colon cancer at 45, so I went back 18 months later. I had 7 polyps, 3 of which were precancerous. I also agree that Cologuard should be taken off the market.
SlowEmphasis3676@reddit
I thought that you shouldn’t use ColoGuard if you have a family history of colon cancer, I.e., in a higher risk group?
Firstcounselor@reddit
Yeah, I did Cologuard before he was diagnosed, and his diagnosis is what prompted the full colonoscopy.
SlowEmphasis3676@reddit
Glad you got the colonoscopy. Best wishes.
Trolkarlen@reddit
You are too high risk for it. They do not recommend it if you have close relatives with colon cancer. The ads clearly state for people of average risk.
Firstcounselor@reddit
When I did Cologuard, no one in my family line had colon cancer so I was considered low risk. After doing that test, my brother found he had cancer and a cousin discovered he had stage 4 cancer and died at 43. (Brother had half his colon removed and is cancer free now.)
formercotsachick@reddit
My oncologist says that by the time Cologuard catches colon cancer, you're probably at least Stage 2 and likely Stage 3.
Better than nothing, but if catch it as stage one the treatment is relatively easy and survival rates are around 90%. If I'm still in the clear at my next annual testing this summer, I'll be 5 years in remission, and I'll have the same chance of getting it again as someone with no history of colon cancer.
DonegalBrooklyn@reddit
I am glad you are doing well. Thank you for sharing your story.
tbodillia@reddit
Their commercials tell you false positive/negative are possible. The studies say they miss 58% of precancerous polyps. Camera up the butt misses 5%.
They have also launched an all cancer screening blood test. I'm not doing that either.
Blephotomy@reddit
A good rule of thumb for Cologuard is if it comes back positive, have a colonoscopy, and if it comes back negative, have a colonoscopy.
SmashmySquatch@reddit
Just get the colonoscopy first if in the US. Doing Cologuard first will cause the colonoscopy to not be covered by insurance.
50sDadSays@reddit
I'd say negative, schedule a colonoscopy per your doctor's advice. Positive, tell your doctor you need a colonoscopy ASAP.
Phobos1982@reddit
Colonoscopies are nowhere near as bad as people think. I’ve had two now and the worst part about both was paying for medical transportation.
Korvanacor@reddit
I’ll take a colonoscopy over getting a urethrascopy any day of the week. I thought there was no way the probe was going to be able to fit but it did.
Gollum69@reddit
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve had both.
GoldenMonkeyRedux@reddit
The worst for me was that it was 4pm so I've never been as thirsty or hungry as when I went in. Never again. It better be 9am.
And the violent bathroom visits. Holy cow...those were something.
But I agree, the actual experience isn't really that bad. It's like taking a peaceful nap and waking up confused and hungry.
LivingGhost371@reddit
To each their own but to me it's worth the risk of getting cancer to not have to go through a colonoscopy.
Ok_Act4459@reddit
I hope this is a bad joke
Emotional_Match8169@reddit
Said from a person who likely has never experienced that awful pain of losing a loved one to it.
penguinwasteland1414@reddit
💯
penguinwasteland1414@reddit
You wouldn't say that if you watched someone you love die from it. It's horrible.
bullseyejoe@reddit
I Loved my Colonscopy!! A peaceful day off from work.
Ok_Act4459@reddit
I always tell people to just get the real thing and don’t trust the poop test. Had a somewhat similar experience to you
Am_I_OK17@reddit
This! When I was ready for my first colonoscopy my primary doctor told me that she never recommends Cologuard, especially for your first/baseline procedure. Besides the fact that there can be a lot of false results, she brought up the fact the (US) insurance will only pay for one diagnostic procedure. If your Cologuard comes back positive you will need a full colonoscopy and now insurance won't cover it because you've already had one.
By the way, my first colonoscopy discovered a "monster polyp" (10mm) and a few smaller ones and now I'm on the every 3 years plan. GET THOSE COLONOSCOPIES PEOPLE!
c0ng0b0ng0@reddit
This isn’t right. If your cologuard comes back positive your insurance will pay for the follow-up colonoscopy. Mine did and I gave pretty crappy insurance from UnitedHealthcare.
yukonmukon111@reddit
Yes. You’re technically both correct. Most insurance companies only approve one diagnostic procedure per indication per year, that’s true, but it’s all about how each test is categorized/billed. The initial Cologuard isn’t diagnostic - there’s no indication yet that something needs diagnosing - but rather a preventative screening test. Once that screening suggests there’s something worth investigating, now we’re talking diagnostic testing, and the full colonoscopy is it.
Am_I_OK17@reddit
And once it's no longer diagnostic it's a new procedure which will be billed at your covered rate - so it's COVERED, but but not free.
c0ng0b0ng0@reddit
Yes sorry I wasn’t clear - it was covered, but not completely free
Am_I_OK17@reddit
Free = included at no ADDITIONAL cost to your already outrageous premiums
BBennett40@reddit
None of it is "free". You're paying for it one way or another.
magicpenny@reddit
Cologuard is good for people like me who can’t get a colonoscopy. I’ve had one colonoscopy my entire life, and due to a redundant colon was advised to never have another due to the high risk of perforation. Fortunately, I have an annual CAT scan with contrast for another condition in addition to my colorguard. So I’m confident if there’s any problem in my colon it will be caught. But folks need to realize that not everyone is a good candidate for a colonoscopy.
NHBuckeye@reddit
As a UPS worker, I implore everyone to please stop taking these shitty tests!
RetailTherapy2021@reddit
Ok, honest question here. I am supposed to take a Cologuard test but am terrified about sending it back. It looks like everything inside is pretty sturdy, but is there anything else I should do to make certain everything is, ummm, completely contained?
NHBuckeye@reddit
Wrapping the box in plastic usually helps.
And you’re right, the packaging is usually sturdy enough to handle it without issues. But I’ve learned that most people don’t follow instructions very well and that leads to a very unpleasant & unsanitary evening for me.
What I really want to know is why do they all get shipped to Wisconsin?
doveinabottle@reddit
Exact Sciences in Fitchburg processes Cologuard tests.
zen2000@reddit
"The power of brown"
funsized43@reddit
You don't open the boxes. That's the really shitty job.
jmeesonly@reddit
But, what if I enjoy mailing shit in a box?
foilrat@reddit
Honestly, my 'scoping was fine.
The prep was a bit obnoxious, but not world ending.
The procedure was quick and painless.
It's not a big deal.
AllReflection@reddit
I don’t drink or use drugs anymore, so honestly the minute or two of “cocktail” prior to zonking out was kinda nice 😅
birdsinapuddle@reddit
Thanks for sharing this. I’ve only done the Cologuard so far 😬
Turbulent-Mango6569@reddit
I’ve never heard anything good about Cologuard…
ThunderStruck777@reddit
Also could not have turned to cancer until you died of heart disease. Get it done if you want but the test is clear you don’t have colon cancer.
Dsxm41780@reddit
Colonoscopy was not bad at all. Will do it again in 4.5 years unless needed sooner. Prep was fine. Day of and procedure was fine. Maybe a day for my digestive system to feel like normal again.
booster1000@reddit
Let’s just agree to stop with the Cologuard. Don’t take the butcher’s word for it. Have him stick his head up your ass to see the T-bone steak.
bigfatjumbo@reddit
Wait. It’s gotta be your bull….
mlachick@reddit
Due to chronic digestive issues, I have been getting regular colonoscopies since my early 30s, and not a single one has been clear. Colonoscopies are great because they remove whatever they find while they're in there. I usually get an endoscopy at the same time.
Is it my favorite? Of course not. But the nap (and peace of mind) are 100% worth it.
finnthethird@reddit
Honestly it is the best nap. Sort of makes the prep worth it.
thirtyone-charlie@reddit
Same for me due to family history. Polyps every time. No cancer yet.
kjs0705@reddit
The issue with it is some see it as a valid and complete substitute for a colonoscopy. The prep and procedure are not that bad and it's not like you do it yearly. We probably faced more difficult and daunting things growing up.
Habaneroe12@reddit
My dr actually did tell me to do it again in a year.
HighSeasArchivist@reddit
I'm lucky to have insurance that covers one screening every year, so my doc alternates CG and colonoscopy.
916urbanfog@reddit
Yep, I had the opposite. CG came back positive, colonoscopy came back clear . Next one in 10 years🤷🏻 Doc said instead of cg just get a colonoscopy to be positive
Cactus_and_Pine@reddit
I'm unable to do sedation. Has anyone done a colonoscopy without it? I've read that worldwide, most are performed without sedation and it's not that big a deal. Just wondering if anyone has direct experience and what it's like.
Rent2326@reddit
I’ve seen social media posts of people getting them without sedation. It’s described as uncomfortable, with pressure and maybe cramping. I believe there are actually no nerve endings in the colon lining, so polyp removal is not painful.
glo427@reddit
This is not accurate. I was sedated for my colonoscopy and distinctly remember when they removed the one polyp—it felt like a large, painful cramp.
ShelbyDriver@reddit
IIRC, sedation during colonoscooy is relatively new. I've never had one, but if and when I need one I'd prefer no sedation just so I could drive myself home.
outsmartedagain@reddit
The ONLY good thing about a colonoscopy is the drugs. Sorry you can’t tolerate them, they are the best excuse to get the procedure.
LongjumpingMap6481@reddit
I'm four years into a fight with metastatic colon cancer because I didn't want to do a colonoscopy and chose to do a cologuard test instead. It didn't catch it and it took years before I had symptoms that something was wrong. Please don't make this mistake. It's stupid. Prepping for a colonoscopy is not that big of a deal.
Electronic_Big_5403@reddit
I lost my dad to metastatic colon cancer, so I know the fight you’re in. Sending you love and light.
I had to fight my GP to send me because of my age (30s at the time, now 45F). When she finally did (at 43) they found an 8mm polyp. I’m just grateful that my doc (and not insurance or cancer) was my only fight. I’m now scheduled to go back every 3 years for a recheck.
LongjumpingMap6481@reddit
I'm sorry you lost your dad. I'm so glad you were able to catch your polyp and wish you a healthy rechecks! They need to lower the screening age guidelines.
keepsmiling1326@reddit
I’m so sorry- thanks for the wise words of warning.
LongjumpingMap6481@reddit
Thank you!
isla_is@reddit
I’m so sorry. Thank you for sharing your story for our benefit. Wishing you the best.
LongjumpingMap6481@reddit
❤️ thank you
gunterrae@reddit
My 88 year old dad was diagnosed with colon cancer a year and a half ago. They said it had probably been growing in there for a decade. He's had four negative cologuards. I wouldn't trust one of those for anything. Go get a colonoscopy.
Beneficial-Bag-2874@reddit
I didn’t trust Colonguard for that reason. If you get misleading information or false positives or whatever you still have to do the colonscopy.
My brother did his colonoscopy a few years ago, they find pre-cancerous polyps. The recommendations for women to get screened increased from 40-45, I was under 45 when my brother had his done. I had to fight my doctor to get approved for a colonoscopy after I told them my brother’s results. They found a few polyps in my colonoscopy but they weren’t cancerous. I have to go again in a few years. I will gladly do it. I have had a few friends and family die from different types of cancer. It’s a bitch of a disease.
Pointy_Stix@reddit
Have the colonoscopy. The preparation is not that bad and the nap you get to have is the most restful ever.
Oh, yeah - cancer screening, blah blah. But the nap? ❤️💓💕
gmgvt@reddit
LOL, I was honestly a teeny tiny bit disappointed when the doc said "no polyps, see you in 10 years" because the prep actually gave me this weird little surge of energy the morning of my procedure that I 100% was not expecting -- in between hanging out on the loo, I was bustling around cleaning the house getting ready for my transportation (my mom) to arrive. Like, I understand a bit more now why people voluntarily undertake fasts/colon cleanses for dietary/health reasons.
And then came the nap. Out like a light, wake up and they're handing you a ginger ale and a folder of pictures of your colon. Can't beat it for peace of mind.
Carrera_996@reddit
They were glorious. I've had 2.
gettinby000@reddit
The best sleep of my perimenopause life!
toofarkt@reddit
Yes! I woke up feeling like sleeping beauty and wanted to do it again.
Pmoneywhazzup@reddit
I'm a guy and yes, that nap is fire!!!
cleveland_leftovers@reddit
Same. I have ulcerative colitis so I have colonoscopies more often. The prep is nothing once you’ve emotionally prepared and figure out your Gatorade and jello preferences. Feeling lighter isn’t a bad thing.
But the SLEEP. Oh the sleep. I honestly look forward to the ‘break’ in my normal hectic life. Especially as a woman in peri who usually sleeps like shit, the nap is like a vacation in the Bahamas.
Glad you’re all good, OP.
Pointy_Stix@reddit
I’ve got UC, as well, but it’s well controlled, so I’m down to a colonoscopy every 5 years. And yes, as a post-menopausal woman, I feel you on all of this.
Sbbbbb@reddit
I thought I had a false positive Cologuard test, but during the follow-up colonoscopy they found 3 sessile polyps (precancerous). While cologuard is not the most accurate, it did save me.
CleMike69@reddit
Cologuard is a marketing gimmick for those that are too afraid of the colonoscopy. Which honestly is such a smooth process. (As long as you like poopin)
pdperson@reddit
I don’t understand cologuard. It can give both false positive and false negative. What’s the point? Colon cancer is preventable. Get a colonoscopy.
HummDrumm1@reddit
If you could utilize a tool that was say, 60% effective in spotting colon cancer, why wouldn’t you use it? Kinda like getting a flu shot for the elderly. They tend to be about 50-60% effective, they don’t save everyone, but they save millions nonetheless
ExtraAd7611@reddit
Me too. Hello instestinal twin. Check out my sexy colon from this morning:
NapsRule563@reddit
And if Cologuard “catches” something and you need a colonoscopy, now it’s not at preventative cost, it’s at standard cost, over 1k.
BraveG365@reddit
That law has been changed sine 2023:
https://www.cologuardhcp.com/-/media/project/exactsciences/websites/cologuard-hcp/files/resources/hcp/coverage_followup_colonoscopy_summary_guide.pdf?rev=e1378175c8894e8b877cfa1a1a099ce3&hash=A0BCE4ED6B752AE53132504F08649215#:\~:text=Starting%20in%202023%2C%20Medicare%2C%20ACA%20and%20commercial,patients%2045%20years%20of%20age%20and%20older.
NapsRule563@reddit
It’s not a law, it’s how insurance codes it. Many still float that, and if you don’t know, you don’t fight it, probably say I can’t afford it.
ExtraAd7611@reddit
Excellent point, and probably something that should be changed since the cost of the cologard test is way less than the cost of a colonoscopy.
tinypill@reddit
Free b’hole pic, oh boy!
Optimal-Ad-7074@reddit
yanno, it sounds kind of funny but I like knowing what I look like on the inside.
tinypill@reddit
Totally normal if you ask me! I’m still salty that my doctor didn’t give me copies of the pics she took of the ovarian cyst she removed 😹
ExtraAd7611@reddit
If you haven't checked already, it is likely in your online account with your medical provider in your medical record history. (Rally Health, Epic MyChart, etc). Check it out and if you find it, let us see.
tinypill@reddit
Ugh I wish!! It was back in 2013…I did double check in MyChart just in case, but no luck. Laaaame!
Separate-Succotash11@reddit
That is a good prep!
ExtraAd7611@reddit
Since I am on a GLP1 med, they made me fast for 48 hours. Lived on nothing but 7up zero and lychee jello. And the prep syrup they gave me was like drinking 2 bottles of robitussin. Blech.
I made my wife take me out for pancakes at ihop as soon as I was released.
MassCasualty@reddit
Oh no rule 34
root_fifth_octave@reddit
That’s not Shai-Hulud?
pfmason@reddit
I had a false positive cologuard test. Will never do it again. Sweated it out for a month before talking to the Dr who was performing the colonoscopy follow up and he told me not to worry, most positive results are from something other than cancer.
donbon02@reddit
Same with false positive. Colonoscopy was pain free, and yeah the prep was shitty but I was prepared for something much worse. Drank lots and lots of water and it was fine.
Overall, the poop in a box was more time consuming / wasted more time, and I won't bother with again
Cobbler_Far@reddit
I’m not trying to avoid a colonoscopy but there is no place within 3 hours to get one done. I’ve been trying to figure out how in the heck to prep, drive, and get home.
confabulatrix@reddit
You can have it done without anesthesia, which would allow you to drive home
Cobbler_Far@reddit
Not knowing much, is the prep gonna make that drive ok? I have visions of needing to stop every 30 minutes lol.
confabulatrix@reddit
My prep was pretty much done hours before my appointment and I no longer needed to be near a bathroom.
Carmilla31@reddit
I spent 4-5 hours in the bathroom during prep. 😭
whatiftheyrewrong@reddit
You can’t drive once you start the prep.
Anonymo123@reddit
I would not trust being in a vehicle and not close to a toilet lol
Triviajunkie95@reddit
You could but it doesn’t mean you should.
I’m gonna advise you to find:
a friend, an acquaintance, a nice waitress at Waffle House, etc to pay to stay with you during/after the procedure. This is not a solo day and uber doesn’t get it.
I felt fine after mine but having my friend drive seemed reasonable after having anesthesia.
NotEasilyConfused@reddit
They just said you can drive yourself if you do not have anesthesia. That is true.
Cobbler_Far@reddit
More it’s the logistics of the drive there and back and how many days off work I would have to take. Everything is just way more complicated when you live in a medical desert.
MiMiinOlyWa@reddit
I have been told that people who are in recovery for opiates often are awake for their colonoscopies. A person who had it that way said the cramping was pretty bad but worth it
hewhoisneverobeyed@reddit
The two clinics I have used both required adult drivers. No public transit, no cabs, no Uber. At both, they required that driver check in with ID and stay the entire time of the procedure.
PrettyBoyBob13@reddit
A hotel? Send the night…. It’s worth it.
Cobbler_Far@reddit
How many nights would I need? One before and one after? How long does the prep take?
LuckyPepper22@reddit
The intense part of the prep (where you will need to stay near a toilet) doesn’t start until the afternoon evening before. So you would only need a room for the night before. They will not give you the colonoscopy unless you have someone to drive you home. But you can pretty much leave right after
bisprops@reddit
It's one day of clear liquid diet. Avoid seeds and cruciferous vegetables for a few days prior. PLA. To sped several hours running to the bathroom or just camping out in there once you start the stuff to flush everything out.
Colonoscopy itself is the easy part. You'll be knocked out, wake up a couple hours later and be good to go shortly thereafter. You won't be permitted to drive, so bring someone to drive you home or else they'll force you to reschedule.
fallcreekprepper@reddit
My Dr told me Cologuard is garbage. I asked about it when I was supposed to get my first colonoscopy (it was postponed because of a severe heart issue that took precedent) He told me not to bother with that, and we'd revisit it after my heart issue was sorted. Long story short, I had heart surgery back in the Summer to replace my aortic valve and repair the root. Eventually got my colonoscopy in March. they found one polyp but it was ok.
Boo-Boo97@reddit
My doctor straight up told me they didn't recommend Cologuard and results were 50/50 on accuracy. Based on what I've read here, I'm glad I opted for a regular colonoscopy. And im on the 3 year plan due to polyps that Cologuard wouldn't have detected anyway.
jennifer_m13@reddit
I just saw my GI doc last week and we talked about Cologuard. I’ve already had three colonoscopies and will continue to have them after talking to her. She said Cologuard has a 92% accuracy rate for colon cancer screening and only a 45% accuracy rating for detecting polyps. Not only that but a lot of insurance companies consider your Cologuard as your preventative maintenance so if you do get a positive and have to go in for a colonoscopy, then the colonoscopy becomes diagnostic and you wall have to pay for it.
whatamook2@reddit
Exactly the reasons why my gastro doc and I decided to go with an actual colonoscopy. Insurance would rather we cheap out and do the box test…but the actual procedure is the best bet for making sure you’re okay. Plus, if you get a positive result with the box test you’ll have to have a colonoscopy anyway. Might as well cut out the middle man and sign up for a sweet nap in the first place. Also—if you can, get the pills for prep instead of liquid. Sutab for the win!
jennifer_m13@reddit
Yes!! I preach the pill prep often on this sub!!
UnicornFarts1111@reddit
Well, you pay a LOT more for it when it becomes diagnostic and your insurance does too. They are happy to pass along as much of the cost to you as they can!
BraveG365@reddit
That law has been changed sine 2023:
https://www.cologuardhcp.com/-/media/project/exactsciences/websites/cologuard-hcp/files/resources/hcp/coverage_followup_colonoscopy_summary_guide.pdf?rev=e1378175c8894e8b877cfa1a1a099ce3&hash=A0BCE4ED6B752AE53132504F08649215#:\~:text=Starting%20in%202023%2C%20Medicare%2C%20ACA%20and%20commercial,patients%2045%20years%20of%20age%20and%20older.
jennifer_m13@reddit
That’s good to know. I know there was another one they passed because insurance companies were switching a colonoscopy from preventative to diagnostic if the doc found polyps and removed them for testing
I hate insurance companies.
Silver_Breakfast7096@reddit
$7k to be exact.
BraveG365@reddit
That law has been changed sine 2023:
https://www.cologuardhcp.com/-/media/project/exactsciences/websites/cologuard-hcp/files/resources/hcp/coverage_followup_colonoscopy_summary_guide.pdf?rev=e1378175c8894e8b877cfa1a1a099ce3&hash=A0BCE4ED6B752AE53132504F08649215#:\~:text=Starting%20in%202023%2C%20Medicare%2C%20ACA%20and%20commercial,patients%2045%20years%20of%20age%20and%20older.
HelloThere4123@reddit
That’s important information that I think people really need to consider. Avoiding a colonoscopy is one thing but having to do one anyway and then paying more for it - well, you can add your pun of choice.
Wyde1340@reddit
I'd do them between colonoscopies, but colonoscopies are the gold standard. Cologuard is less invasive, less potential for side effects and probably costs less and that's probably why you're doc did that first.
I'm glad you advocated for yourself after the pain didn't stop. I hope you're doing better now.
MaybeOnFire2025@reddit
I had two colonoscopies under 50, both found polyps that needed to be snipped, one was super not good.
Get the pipe, it's fine.
ambiguouslyincognito@reddit
Same. First colonoscopy had 3 polyps removed, no problems. Just had a second at 45. 4 polyps removed, all pre cancerous.
Cologuard wouldn't have saved me from colon cancer.
suigeneris8@reddit
Similar experience. Did cologuard. Three years later did scope and found 3 polyps. Just do the scope and get rid of the bad guys that might cause havoc
brickfrenzy@reddit
Exact same experience for me too. Poop in a box was negative. 5 years later I decide to get the real thing and lo and behold, polyps be polypin'. One was bad enough that I'm on the 3 year reinspection plan. So yeah, do the real thing.
Prep wasn't even that bad. Sure the drink is kinda gross, but come on it's not like you're drinking gasoline. The worst part by far for me was how hungry I was.
East-Philosophy@reddit
Same exact experience too!
Thick-Fly-5727@reddit
Just so you know, when you get a colonoscopy, they throw in a really good nap for you as a reward for your troubles.
I agree, get the real thing.
MaybeOnFire2025@reddit
Propofol is time travel. It's amazing.
SimpleServe9774@reddit
I’m always curious why someone would choose a colorguard test instead of the gold standard. Is it because you don’t want to put yourself through the prep or is it lack of knowledge? Fear of the actual procedure? It’s literally the worst gamble.
Missmbb@reddit
For me, it’s because I’m low risk, I don’t want to do the prep, I’m terrified of needless and I don’t want an iv. I told my PCP all of that and she said I could opt for Cologuard instead, so that’s what I did. When it’s time for my next one I may change my mind.
Glittering_Scar_8019@reddit
Pelvic disfunction, coccydynia, connective tissue disease (higher risk of perforation)to name a few Different bodies come with different risks. Cologuard gives an option for people who are low-risk for colon cancer but higher risk for complications. That said, when needed, get the scope
jthmniljt@reddit
Covid?
JoeyKino@reddit
Insurance. Mine paid for the box, not the scope. I'm sure someone was paid handsomely by cologuard for that decision.
WhiskeyDeltaBravo1@reddit
Brownie-0109@reddit
I understand the point of your post, but separately your polyps would not have caused pain.
Were you also diagnosed with diverticulitis?
Otherwise-Meaning-90@reddit (OP)
The doctor told me to introduce more fiber into my diet as a start. So I’m taking Benefiber daily and it seems to already be helping.
ol__spelch@reddit
You mean taking a dump in a box and mailing it ISN'T a highly accurate, definitive system???
Who woulda thunk it?
threedogdad@reddit
I was blown away by this the first time I saw it. Getting your colon checked is critical to your survival and you're going to trust a shitty mail order company?
MartyFunkhoosier@reddit
The fact that it is still allowed to be used is pretty crazy.
CoastRanger@reddit
Waitaminute…you get to be genx and also still in your 40s? Bah humbug
Source: I’m pushing 60
Beth_Pleasant@reddit
Haha! I'm 47 (be 48 later this year. Born '78.
StatementSensitive17@reddit
I'm 47. Born in 79. Gen X. By a hair.
spoiled__princess@reddit
I am a year younger and I consider myself more of an xennial. I really don’t know much of the Gen X stuff.
TravelerMSY@reddit
It’s a pretty wide age range. Like 20 years.
jason4747@reddit
Credentials please! Indicate:
WagstaffLibrarian@reddit
1: Everybody only had that single green one and fathers religiously moved it around the house every summer with the Rain Bird sprinkler attached. The calibration of the plastic dial on the sprinkler was a mathematical event worthy of Apollo moon landings (We're not watering the neighbor's lawn too, godammit!) so screw all of your hose water cliches--you got the sweet taste of aluminum in your summertime water or you got nothing.
2: The only one that counted was the one your mom could see.
3: What is this word "help?"
4: "Safe?" See response 3.
5: David Lee...Hoth? Star Wars nerd here.
6: No worries, my knee-high three ring circus athletic socks protected what the shorts didn't cover. Mostly.
Hope that's enough for you to unclick the velvet rope and allow me entrance into the club.
jason4747@reddit
Winner!
FloppyFerrett1@reddit
5 😂
gatorgopher@reddit
I love your list. It may not be definitive, but it's dang close!
InsertRadnamehere@reddit
r/generationjones
Sheepadoodling@reddit
Getting a colonoscopy was the best sleep I ever had.
Beth_Pleasant@reddit
I was sad it was so short. Only like 20 minutes or so. I thought I was going to get a nice long nap.
1questions@reddit
Feel like I’m the odd one out on this. Felt right and like I had a hangover. Also had a headache for hours, wasn’t fun.
theserialdeleter@reddit
I do love me a propofol nap!
azchocolatelover@reddit
While I'm a fan of a propodol nap, the short-term amnesia I get afterwards drives my spouse insane. He really doesn't enjoy having the same, short conversation with me 1/2 dozen times in 10 minutes for some reason....
ExtraAd7611@reddit
I woke up feeling tired but at the same time, oddly more refreshed than I've felt in months.
minnesotawristwatch@reddit
And publicly ripping RECORD SHATTERING FARTS
Spacecowboy78@reddit
I get the tingles in my brain just before I knock out on that stuff. Like I can fell it flowing into tiny capillaries.
Pablo_Newt@reddit
I hadn’t heard about scheduling a colonoscopy for a while. My last one was 3+ years ago. I’m 62. I mentioned to my primary doc about Cologuard and he warned me that if it found something, a full colonoscopy wouldn’t be covered.
Another reason to avoid them IMO.
ConcentrateRemote801@reddit
Why wouldn’t a colonoscopy be covered?
Pablo_Newt@reddit
Originally, it was one or the other. But I just searched and as of 2023, most insurance plans now cover a follow-up colonoscopy.
Sorry for the outdated misinformation.
Terrible_End_8534@reddit
I just checked on this close to the end of 2025. My Blue Cross plan would only cover one of them per year (either cologuard or colonoscopy) so I waited until a little later in the calendar year to do the cologuard in case it found something and then I needed a colonoscopy. I knew I wouldn’t be able to wait very long in between because I would be too freaked out, but I wanted to get into the next calendar year if that had to happen. I know kooky logic, but I’m just saying my Blue Cross plan as of 2025 would only pay for one. So your information was not necessarily outdated.
mstrong73@reddit
In the lead up to my first colonoscopy my Dr. said I could do the cologuard but that if anything did show up I’d need the colonoscopy anyway so I just went right to it. They are no where near as bad as people make them out and it’s the best diagnostic option.
Legitimate_Ocelot491@reddit
I told my doctor I wanted the real thing. He said with my history I could just get a Cologuard. I told him I wanted the real thing anyway.
Got it done last fall and good to go for another ten years.
temerairevm@reddit
Adding to this, if you do cologuard and something DOES show up, it’s now a diagnostic colonoscopy, which is no longer free with most insurance.
Immediate-Meat1762@reddit
I don't quite get why people avoid having a regular colonoscopy. The preparation is annoying, but the actual colonoscopy is about the best nap available.
Crap non stop for 12 hours and then take a nice nap. Wake up and move on.
BackgroundDeep1986@reddit
And whatever you eat afterwards will be the best meal of your life
Anotherams@reddit
there is a diner across the street from my gastros office. Their breakfast was the best ever. I’m sure they are making a mint off of people coming out of that clinic.
BackgroundDeep1986@reddit
The hospital give me a mixed sandwich plate and a Tim-tam biscuit. It always tastes INCREDIBLE.
Anotherams@reddit
that is nice! I got a graham cracker and a mini can of ginger ale. I think they are getting a kickback from the diner to send us out hungry.
ExtraAd7611@reddit
I went to ihop and it was glorious.
format32@reddit
You forgot that you also get to chow down after.
Auntie_Venom@reddit
And the massive farts
format32@reddit
I’ve always gotten lucky with this.. my last one I got I did have some pain probably from tissue samples.
ExtraAd7611@reddit
I had to fast for 2 days since I am on a GLP1 med. Good times.
mmm_nope@reddit
Weird. I’m on a GLP1, too, and didn’t have to adjust my prep, at all. Just had to stop taking the medication a week before my procedure.
UnicornFarts1111@reddit
They even have a pill form of the prep. I won't go back to that nasty liquid!
bikeyparent@reddit
Some insurance plans are crap and won’t cover them for various reasons. I totally agree with you on people avoiding them because the just don’t want to do it, and I sympathize with those who do the Cologuard in place of spending $3k out of pocket.
WeenyDancer@reddit
It's a terrible nap for me. It takes me nearly a week to feel ok after. Not arguing the importance, but it's not uncommon to feel awful after (particularly if you are a mc1r gene mutation person)
xannieh666@reddit
If you can have one have one for sure....but my hubby couldn't. He's a type 1 diabetic just the fasting alone he couldn't do...instead they just have him doing the Cologuard often. It really sucks because his father had colon cancer....so he is high risk.
I know there are procedures he could possibly do by being admitted if he absolutely had to have one. I had mine and they found a large pre-cancerous one so I am a huge proponent of getting them.
Skatchbro@reddit
No insurance is probably a big barrier.
w3woody@reddit
So the trick of a colonoscopy is that even if a polyp is negative for cancer, there is a roughly 10% chance it can become cancerous. Meaning a colonoscopy is not just an examination. It's cancer prevention.
Amidormi@reddit
Yep. My husband didn't want to do one, thought I'd have polyps. I didn't. He did his a few months later, guess who had 3 polyps? Yep, him.
NeverEverMaybe0_0@reddit
To be frank, nobody wants to get a colonoscopy.
Maybe it's just the prep.
Amidormi@reddit
It was more in the 'I'm fine I won't need it" sense, which was wrong. The prep is indeed miserable.
Infidel_sg@reddit
Thank you OP. I just was sent this test and for some reason I haven't done it! Even though I dread the idea, I'm a get with my PCP and get the exam done..
We getting old bro, don't forget those 100k checkups
Sir3Kpet@reddit
I did cologuard a few years and it was negative. I was having some weird abdominal pain so I had a colonoscopy. I had a couple of pre cancerous polyps which they removed during the colonoscopy.
Unfun22@reddit
I knew a lady, a frequent customer, who relied on Cologuard and died from colon cancer. The test never seemed like a good idea to me but that confirmed it.
Chemical-Carrot-9975@reddit
I agree 100%, and speak as a healthcare provider for 30 years. I would never recommend anything other than a colonoscopy for screening. Those tests only pickup cancer, not precancerous polyps. I also am on the three year plan for life because of adenomatous polyps and I’m only 52. I’m so happy I got a colonoscopy instead of the stool tests, as I can prevent getting cancer instead of simply picking it up once it’s always there.
GeneralTall6075@reddit
I had one small adenoma when I was 50 and my gastro says 5 years f/u not 3. I’ve read both 3 and 5. So confused about this and I’m a Pathologist lol.
Chemical-Carrot-9975@reddit
It depends on the number of polyps that are found that are higher risk. That sounds right, I had more that came out high risk on biopsy. I’m happy to do it as often as they’d like, to prevent cancer, obviously.
This-Dude_Abides@reddit
People have gastroenterologists they just pop in and visit? lol I wouldn’t even know how to look one up?
debcon14@reddit
Your pcp can schedule a colonoscopy for you in many cases. When caught early, colon cancer is very treatable. My oldest sister died from colon cancer at 55. I get a colonoscopy every 5 years since 45. The first one they found 3 benign polyps. The last one I had was clear of polyps. I’m now 57. I’ve always been asleep during them: (Propophol).
It can save your life.
skeeterbmark@reddit
You ask your doctor for a name. Or ask a friend who had a colonoscopy.
well_uh_yeah@reddit
I just looked on my insurance site and picked whoever was closed with a decent rating. For a colonoscopy you don’t really need a relationship with the doctor. I spoke to mine for like 5 minutes and then he talked to my wife about how it went (everything was clear) while I was still loopy from the anesthesia.
Distinct_Magician713@reddit
Your PCP can refer you.
qwerty8675309Z@reddit
Thanks for the warning. I’ve done cologuard twice now, wanting to avoid a colonoscopy. From what you’re saying I may just bite the bullet
mmm_nope@reddit
If you get the Sutab pills, follow the diet the day before, and get some Zofran, the prep really isn’t that bad.
NotEasilyConfused@reddit
Zofran is very constipating. That's the opposite of what you want to do for a colonoscopy prep.
mmm_nope@reddit
The volume of Sutab being used more than makes up for the small amount of Zofran.
vinegar@reddit
You don’t need Cologuard, you’ve got me! And I’m telling ya that everything is just fine.
Otherwise-Meaning-90@reddit (OP)
Just do it. It’s not as bad as you think it is. Actually it wasn’t really bad at all
tommymat@reddit
Do not put it off. Lost my brother to colorectal cancer. It was awful to watch. Just go,m.
Separate-Succotash11@reddit
Please do. 🙏
timothypjr@reddit
Just do the colonoscopy. The ads for that test state that it can be wrong. If that’s the case, save the $40 and go get the proper test as prescribed by Cologuard themselves.
wandernwade@reddit
This happened to me. I’d had two real colonoscopies- one abnormal, the other not. Then I did a box test. Negative. The next year, I had multiple polyps in my colon and stomach. (Had to get an upper as well). Still have pain, and still getting various tests done. Last night I had a CT of my abdomen. (Liver and gallbladder testing all seemed normal).
Just do the dang colonoscopy.
Zealousideal_Dark552@reddit
This is exactly what my Dr. told me. Get the colonoscopy. Hell…. You’re out of it for the whole thing anyway.
Ldawg74@reddit
I’m not saying don’t get one, definitely get a colonoscopy.
That said, I woke up in the middle of mine, turned to watch the “show” for a bit, then laid back down. I don’t recall much after that, other than I won’t be actively trying to watch the show next time. It was boring.
well_uh_yeah@reddit
Yup. The prep wasn’t the most fun but the procedure itself could have been anything and I’d never have known. Worst part for me was my minor fear of needles with the iv.
SimpleServe9774@reddit
Glad you chose the best for yourself!
gatorgopher@reddit
I'm gonna be real honest, I'm terrified of a colonoscopy. I'm in an industry that has seen too many bad results. My Cologuards have come back fine and I don't have any issues. Gonna keep all my fingers and toes crossed.
BlakeMajik@reddit
Where it truly is irresponsible is when docs do unnecessary colonoscopies on elderly people. My mother was given one in her mid-80s by a doc who shouldn't have, her colon was perforated, and she had to use an ostomy bag for a number of months.
Thankfully, a competent doctor was able to repair the tear and she's been pooping the old-fashioned way since then.
So this is just to say that there are also times when a colonoscopy isn't the right thing to do either.
BackgroundDeep1986@reddit
Why are you terrified of it?
gatorgopher@reddit
I'm going to answer you and Silver_breakfast7096: perforated bowel is what I'm terrified of. And the industry is health adjacent.
whatiftheyrewrong@reddit
Thousands are done a day. Whose bowels are being perforated?
skiphandleman@reddit
Perforated bowel occurs in less than 0.09% of cases.
Bright_Broccoli1844@reddit
Somebody has to be 0.09%, which is scary.
kosherhalfsourpickle@reddit
I've had more than 25 colonoscopies over the year (i get them every year due to having crohn's disease) and I've never had a perforated bowel. You know what I did get? High AF on propofol which is the medicine they give you to knock you out. Once they give it to you, you have 10 to 20 seconds of pure bliss before you fall asleep and wow is that sleep the best sleep ever.
AlmiranteCrujido@reddit
I've always just fallen asleep. No bliss, but no drama either - and yeah, I woke up rested, not drained like under general.
skiphandleman@reddit
This an irresponsible post. What you 'have seen' is statistically irrelevant and even cologuard acknowledges it's limited efficacy.
Here is a real statistic: Less than 0.4% of colonoscopies have any type of serious complication and most of those occur only when a polyp is found and removed.
The standard is colonoscopy at 50 and earlier if you have family history or other risk factors. These are facts that anyone can research.
If you're terrified of the procedure, fine. But don't spread misinformation and create additional fear among those who are approaching the time to get thier first one.
gatorgopher@reddit
OK, I'll qualify this if it makes you feel better. If I had a family history, I would certainly do the procedure. If I had any symptoms or my doctor recommended, I would follow their advice. In my small frame of reference, I did not intend to inflame backlash against a very necessary medical procedure. But as a healthy 59yo, with no history or issues, I would not.
Chemical-Damage-870@reddit
It’s actually 45 now for adult at average risk due to the increase in younger cases of colon cancer.
Silver_Breakfast7096@reddit
What industry?
PeevedProgressive@reddit
Is the Cologard test like this?
Background_Big7363@reddit
😆😂😆
lowlatitude@reddit
That can't be right, the little cartoon cologuard box said it works great. You mean to tell me marketing is lying to us and they made money off you. Fair to say it's a con
hatfield1785@reddit
Just get the colonoscopy. You’re gonna have to do it, eventually.
birdnerdcatlady@reddit
I met someone yesterday just diagnosed with colon cancer and had a negative Cologuard 3 years ago.
Big_Easy_Eric@reddit
I was warned that if I opted for "poop in a box" and it came back positive, or inclusive, that I would be on the hook to pay out-of-pocket for a full colonoscopy because insurance will only pay for one.
BraveG365@reddit
That law has been changed since 2023:
https://www.cologuardhcp.com/-/media/project/exactsciences/websites/cologuard-hcp/files/resources/patient/coverage_followup_colonoscopy_summary_guide_for_patients_caregivers.pdf?rev=b3b526e854a0481ab1c41eb7013c96d0&hash=3814F007B5596B7F5B24E2B7B2F39A69
ljlkm@reddit
That’s great!!! Thanks for the update!
ljlkm@reddit
This is true. Under Obamacare, screening colonoscopies are covered without patient contribution. If you do Cologuard and it comes back with a result that requires a colonoscopy, it switches from being a screening procedure to a diagnostic one and those are not covered in the same way. For those of us with high deductible policies, that leaves us paying over $2k out of pocket.
BraveG365@reddit
That law has been changed sine 2023:
https://www.cologuardhcp.com/-/media/project/exactsciences/websites/cologuard-hcp/files/resources/patient/coverage_followup_colonoscopy_summary_guide_for_patients_caregivers.pdf?rev=b3b526e854a0481ab1c41eb7013c96d0&hash=3814F007B5596B7F5B24E2B7B2F39A69
Distinct_Magician713@reddit
Colonoscopy is far superior to shitting in a box.
One-Caregiver-1906@reddit
You shit in a bag, not a box…. Duhhh
denikar@reddit
My wife had a Cologuard test 3 years in a row. All three tests were negative. A month after her third test result she had some minor bleeding. Had a colonoscopy and there was one pre-cancerous bleeding polyp. I have ZERO faith in Cologuard now. Get a colonoscopy.
Mean-Cheesecake-2635@reddit
I’m 52 and had a Cologuard test last summer that showed an abnormality which dictated a colonoscopy. During that I had seven polyps removed, which were small and unconcerning.
They also found a 40mm polyp in my upper rectum which was removed in a later colonoscopy at a hospital. The initial indication was that it was precancerous but the biopsy revealed a carcinoma. I’ve now been diagnosed with stage one cancer and need to go in for another colonoscopy (third in the last six months), this time to remove a metal clip used to seal the area treated in the 2nd, so I can get a clean MRI to determine whether there’s been any spread to neighboring lymph nodes. The findings will determine my treatments going forward.
Last summer I spoke with my PCP about whether I should do the cologuard test or just have the scope since I’d only had one cologuard several years before. She told me she’d recently had an unfortunate patient who’d done the CG and had a negative result, only to find out six months later they had cancer. She said the CG test is only about 70% reliable.
Sure it’s easier and more comfortable to do the at home test. In my case I’m fortunate something was detected. However I do wish I’d gone in for a scope a few years ago, as I’ve no doubt this would have been found and removed before progressing this far.
Because I was uncomfortable with getting scoped, (and I would say mildly so as I recognize the importance of diagnostic procedures), I put off being thorough and saving myself from going through five years of scopes in six months. I also may be facing a radical surgery which would involve cutting out a whole length section of my colon/rectum to remove surrounding tissue if the cancer has penetrated it. This gives me a non-zero chance of having to use a bag for the rest of my life.
To anyone who is hung up on getting the scope, I would absolutely encourage you to get over it. It is simply not worth missing something that could be life changing. Sparing the gory details, and it has been gory, in my case I neither avoided discomfort nor gained anything positive from avoiding getting scoped. The prep is 100% the worst part, you can get knocked out for the procedure and literally be fine the next day. If you go in and they find something they can remove most things then and there and maybe you need to go back in 1-3 years. They find nothing you go back in 5. I’m looking at yearly screens for the foreseeable future because I was squeamish about one.
Go get your colonoscopies.
Ok-Conversation-7292@reddit
Yep, do it as early as you can, it's not that bad.
mden1974@reddit
It’s good to do in between colonoscopy imo because you can get it every three years. They won’t pay for colonoscopy every ten if low risk
Known-Basket-89@reddit
I’m 45, F. Been having colonoscopies since I was 23. Lost count forever and ever ago. At least 15. And as many endoscopies. When I was 23 I had been having GI symptoms for a while, definitely too long since I was young and scared to ask questions. Short story, they were convinced I had colon cancer. I had several polyps that looked like big (they were quite sizable), grayish black malignancies and my GI doc was trying to figure out how to tell me I had colon cancer at 23. Thank God he never had to though he had the excised polyps tested with Pathology a second time. That was my worse finding but I’ve had several other procedures that showed very worrisome growth and some on the verge.
Prep is awful! Yes. I’ve had them all. The gallon type withOUT the added flavor pack may actually have been one of the easier ones and I literally just had that one last year (twice 🙄) for the first time ever.
BUT! Colon cancer may be more common in older ages but it is not restricted to older age. Cancer is not committed to age. We should know that but it still comes as a surprise. I’ve been biopsied so many times- colon, esophagus, uterine, breast.
Of all these biopsies, this past October I was blindsided completely. I sorta always figured I may have one of those cancers. But nah- I had to be special. Distal bile duct cancer (Cholangiocarcinoma)… My dad and sister keep saying I’m the youngest. Yeah, I know. And the most medically confounded. But bile duct? Really? I mean, who’s truly even thinking of the bile duct that often anyways? I mean, who was thinking it could be a thing when we were all focused on surveilling literally everything else…
Cancer and other chronic illnesses happen at all ages. Please, don’t wait until you’re suffering (or turn yellow like I did on 10/6/25) to get checked out. Prevention is truly the best “medicine.” (And wash your hands! It actually does best prevent infection.)
Chemo-ing it through life at the moment. Already had a Whipple surgery. Still smiling because I refuse to be a miserable human being. Wouldn’t mind throwing a bunch of inanimate objects every so often though. (I go as far as trying to get my trash in the trash can from a distance. I’m bad 😎 like that…)
There’s no fear like a diagnosis you never want to hear. There’s no realization like realizing you could’ve handled something a lot sooner, especially realizing it may never have been if you had. Also, there’s not much in life you can truly control when all is said and done, but you can control your attitude.
Smile! 😊 God isn’t finished with me or you quite yet. And every time you genuinely smile you’re changing someone’s life. It may just be your own!
cdtoad@reddit
True. Plus it's the best sleep I've had in years.
1questions@reddit
People keep saying that but that wasn’t my experience. I just ended up feeling super groggy and like I was hung over, had a headache for hours afterwards.
Trandoshan-Tickler@reddit
Lucky! I only got a "really strong ibuprofen" injection so I was conscious during the whole thing. I didn't hurt though, just super uncomfortable at times.
chaoticnormal@reddit
They slipped benadryl into my sleep mix. Fucked me up for the whole day. I felt like, well, like I was drugged. Also, as I woke up the nurse asked me if everything was OK at home because I was saying things while I was under. I wish I knew what I said. And yes I'm fine at home.
Blerkm@reddit
And you get pictures to show to your friends!
keepsmiling1326@reddit
My doctor looked me square in the eye & said if everyone got their colonoscopies, there would be almost no death from colon cancer. Made me a believer- I had my first one last year & it truly wasn’t as bad as I expected.
Let this be your ‘bell’ to schedule if you’re due! You just kind of have to buckle in for the ride. And pro tip from a friend- during your prep, don’t trust a fart (that one made me laugh)
Mr-E-3345@reddit
How old are you?
MassCasualty@reddit
It's basically something that will only be useful if it tells you it's positive because then you know a negative doesn't necessarily mean you don't have a problem.
antiseesaw@reddit
had a procedure where they put my in wrong and i missed the go to sleep medicine, just got the paralyze you medicine, and am forever terrified to go under again
whatiftheyrewrong@reddit
It’s not anesthesia. It’s just a sedative. And no paralytics.
antiseesaw@reddit
damn, i pooped in the box today out of fear of the colonoscopy!
MassCasualty@reddit
That's rough. Apparently They do no sedation colonoscopies. The two main issues are the initial insertion and the banging into the hepatic plexus nerves near the liver.
I assume you were monetarily compensated for your suffering!
antiseesaw@reddit
lol nope, just an apology
Flaky_Tap_2836@reddit
No because there are a fair amount of false positives.
ernster96@reddit
I got the endoscopy/colonoscopy combo pack. They didn’t find any thing in my colon and told me I didn’t need to come back for 10 years but since my grandmother died from colon cancer at 59 I think I’ll be coming back sooner.
That Margarita mix shit that took up two mason jars was fucking awful. I hear they have pills you can take now where you’ll just basically shit through a screen door.
Briaaanz@reddit
I did all the prep and my ride bailed on me 30 minutes before the test.
I didn't want to go thru all that prep again. Told the doc, hey, i used to do sword swallowing when i was stupid and in my twenties. Can we do it if i skip sedation?
I knew the doc. He was willing to try. The colonoscopy went ok. It felt so weird when he took biopsies. I could actually feel the little snips inside my gut.
The endoscopy was not as good. When you sword swallow, you desensitize your gag reflex over time (basically just brushing the back of your tongue, farther and farther back each time). Well, that gag reflex comes back if you don't continue to nullify it. Still, i meditated and wasn't too bad... Until he used air to open up my throat more. That was really rough.
Got thru it tho. Had one after that years later. I definitely did the sedation that time
Carmilla31@reddit
Those two full glasses i had to drink were horrendous. I asked the doctor about the pills afterwards and hes like the pills are worse as there are so many. I cant see it being it worse than drinking that disgusting concoction.
Maleficent-Courage48@reddit
I did the pills and it wasn't bad at all. My husband did the other prep and he won't do it again.
ernster96@reddit
And that was the small drink mix. If I had gotten the free one that insurance covered, it was like 2 gallon jugs.
Exponential-777@reddit
95% of polyps are benign. A precancerous polyp is detectable with a poop test. It takes 10-20 years for a precancerous polyp to become cancerous.
This is why Europe does not do routine colonoscopy. The poop test is the standard. The US does not get better results.
Rumbl-In-June@reddit
Colonoscopy is easy peasy. Don’t be nervous about it. The prep stuff isn’t a big deal you just poop some.
Carmilla31@reddit
Some? I think i pooped for 4-5 hours straight. 😭
ImaginaryVacation708@reddit
I have a very bad reaction to anesthesia so I’m going colaguard right now. I have zero risk factors and am 46. Eventually I’ll have to get one but I just can’t bring myself to be knocked out knowing what it does to me
belai437@reddit
Have you ever tried the Scopolomine patch? General anesthesia used to make me sick for 8-10 hours after the procedure, but finally I was given this patch to put behind my ear and I had no problems whatsoever.
shhwest@reddit
Even to versed?
ImaginaryVacation708@reddit
It’s been any kind of anesthesia they’ve tried. Knocked out, epidural, even dental work.
Peaches4U2@reddit
You can opt out of the anesthesia. They give you a mild sedative. You are making it worse in your head than it really is. Twitter will be much easier than a cancer diagnosis. Go do it. I'd go with you if I knew you were close.
ImaginaryVacation708@reddit
I appreciate it. It’s a major process with me either way. I’m also on meds I’d have to stop several weeks prior so it’s Not just a one day and done thing.
Getting old sucks.
Redebo@reddit
Go get your full genetic profile done. You’ll likely learn tons an]bout your sensitivity to anesthesia.
You might even get a doctors note to carry with you!
ImaginaryVacation708@reddit
How would I go about that? Like what would I ask for?
I think the reaction may be due to the surgery I had at a couple of months old. I’ve read several articles that talk about how prior to 1980, they didn’t use anesthesia or pain meds on babies because of some weird idea they didn’t feel pain. They use a paralytic to keep the baby still. I wonder if it’s my body freaking out more over the surgery and deep trauma issues related to that
I also told my father when I saw the Dr at 2 after not seeing him since the surgery that “he’s a bad man he hurts kids”
Redebo@reddit
The genetic markers for anesthesia are known and will show up in your genetic profile. Depending on the genes active, it produces different symptoms from sensitivity to allergy.
The genetic tests are anywhere from 500 to 1500 bucks and produce about 250 pages of data on your shit.
LuckyPepper22@reddit
That is wild. Hopefully you get some resolution to that.
shhwest@reddit
Damn that’s a shame 45 had my colonoscopy in February had a polyp removed, back when I Turn 50. Good luck to you 🩷
ImaginaryVacation708@reddit
Thanks. My primary is comfortable with it for now but I’m betting as I age she’s gonna insist.
xanthippe115@reddit
Are you a redhead/auburn hair? Redheads are genetically resistant to anesthesia https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1362956/ A redheaded friend informed me of this, her dentist used to have her drink a vile concoction of baking soda to alter her normal PH and she swore it helped dental anesthetics work for her.
ImaginaryVacation708@reddit
No but my mother was and she would wake up during major surgery
Mine isn’t that it doesn’t work. It’s that for 72 hours after having it, I have a massive 3 day panic attack that is so bad I can’t keep fluids in me, feel like someone is trying to remove me from the world, pass out, see crap etc. it’s bad. Very very bad. I usually end up In the er but they don’t have anything they’ve found to stop it.
PickleChickens@reddit
I did mine without any drugs and it wasn't difficult.
Trandoshan-Tickler@reddit
I had one done last month and they found two polyps, the larger one being 3mm. They want to see me again in a year.
uncontrolledfarting@reddit
Indeed,I tested positive in a cologuard test,got the colonoscopy, and an endoscopy, nothing in the colon,have a irritation in my stomach from too much acid,(hence my username!)false positive.....false negative happens too
MMXVA@reddit
I chose a colonoscopy rather than just do Cologuard because I didn’t want a false negative. And the colonoscopy turned up polyps as well.
g8rrph@reddit
Get a scope. Period. The worst part is the prep.
RustyAndEddies@reddit
Learning later it cost me $600 out of pocket to shit in a box made it feel like a real colonoscopy.
abstractraj@reddit
Vaseline your bunghole and do the colonoscopy. They found three polyps during mine
wheresthe1up@reddit
My doc told me Cologuard is about as valuable as a turd in a box.
swarleyknope@reddit
I’m glad they turned out ok!
My friend just got diagnosed with colon cancer - she’s only had the cologuard; it took showing severe symptoms that led to needing colonoscopy to find it. That’s how she learned that the cologuard is kind of useless in a preventative sense.
It’s great for situations like a pandemic, when healthcare isn’t as accessible or instead of nothing for people who won’t or can’t get a colonoscopy, but I’m glad that my doctor told me that my insurance wouldn’t have covered both and suggested I hold off on the cologuard & wait until I was able to get scheduled for a colonoscopy instead.
CaptMixTape@reddit
I go in on Monday for my second on. Yeah for prep meds. Ugh
Pendragenet@reddit
My doctor had me do a cologuard test - but he had also scheduled me for a colonoscopy before I even took the test. Everyone I know it was the same thing - here is the colonguard test, take it. Oh and here is your coloscopy date, go.
No one I know has been given the colonguard without also doing a colonoscopy immediately following.
I think for many/most doctors, they have you do the colonguard first just to get you thinking about colon cancer, etc, so you'll be more likely to do the colonscopy that is what they really want you to have.
I have an endoscopy and colonoscopy at the same time. Twighlight drug. I woke up with a distant dreamlike memory of getting up off the table when they started the colonoscopy and having someone pushing me back down and saying "it's all right, it will just be a moment". No emotion or feeling connected to the memory at all. I asked and yes, I did try to leave when they started the coloscopy.
Silver_Breakfast7096@reddit
Cologuard isn’t as accurate at all. Even though a colonoscopy is highly unpleasant, you should do it after 50.
c0l245@reddit
How is a colonoscopy unpleasant?
I always look forward to the nap.
jbellafi@reddit
The prep is I’m sure what they’re referring to. It’s awful
kabekew@reddit
I've had two so far and didn't think it was that bad. Just having to chug down a kind of soda you don't like. I guess it varies by person.
NotEasilyConfused@reddit
The first time I did the prep, it wasn't enough. I'm an RN -- I know sometimes people need more than the usual routine. So, a two-day prep was ordered for me. That involves laxative pills and a smaller drink routine the day before, followed by the regular one.
The first day was alright, but the second ... holy Hell. It made me puke. A lot. By the end of the evening, I had hypothermia from drinking and vomiting up cold liquid. I got through half the bottle before just pouring a glass and smelling it made me vomit. Enough prep went through that I was mostly clean (99%), but there's nothing like having deliberate diarrhea with accidental vomiting while having chills so bad your teeth are rattling. I had a bucket in my lap while I was in the bathroom. Sexy, right? Doctor Asshole still scolded me for the 1%. He's in the right branch of medicine, that's for sure.
All that to say: it definitely varies by person. 🙂
I'll do it again in 8-10 years, because that was the recommended timeline for my results and risk factors, but I really hope they find a better way to prep before then.
Rhiannon8404@reddit
The prep is somewhat unpleasant. The colonoscopy is nothing but a nap.
AdEastern9303@reddit
A really good nap.
Adventurous-Depth984@reddit
40*
The changing guidelines are for insurance company profit, not for maximizing patient care
BackgroundDeep1986@reddit
Where I live the colonoscopy isn’t unpleasant because we are fully sedated. It’s the prep that’s yucky.
vantuckymyfoot@reddit
I read this as color guard test and was confused about what kind of examination a high school drill team would be undertaking.
Carry on.
Responsible-Baby-551@reddit
I mean it was spelled colorguard at least once
SuspiciousMeat6696@reddit
There are all age drum & bugle corps.
NotEasilyConfused@reddit
The one they have to pass to join in college. Those marching bands don't mess around and will only take certified flag twirlers.
ChiJazzHands@reddit
If you have no symptoms or a family history, Cologuard is fine for 45-49, but any age after that should get a colonoscopy.
Maplesyrup4eva@reddit
Please also remember that a colonoscopy not only is the most effective scan for cancer but can be preventative. It’s why you don’t need to have them on a frequent basis. Many things that can develop into cancer they can clear out. And honestly colonoscopies are really not that big of a deal nowadays. Yeah the prep sucks but the procedure is like one of the best naps you can have in 10 years of peace of mind not worrying about one of the most common forms of deadly cancer is worth it.
LHCThor@reddit
The prep for a colonoscopy sucks. No lie. The procedure itself is nothing. I have had 3 of them.
But I would rather have the colonoscopy than find out I have a more serious issue. I have to have one every 3-5 years.
idk012@reddit
Not testing is stealing your future years from your family and grandkids. Don't be a thief, do the test.
GingerA0712@reddit
It’s a necessary evil. Prep isn’t fun. Stupid way people die.
twentyshots97@reddit
no one has even mentioned cologuard’s terrible commercials. i’m still trying to understand the one i saw last weekend where two ladies are flirting with a little box guy whose head they are going to shit in.
FinalF137@reddit
Really!? I liked them...https://youtu.be/Mu12X2cu6Y0?si=4pr18S1ReluXlGfI
MFrasier74@reddit
I have watched this and shown it to others. Laugh every time.
Ambitious_Hand_2861@reddit
If you look for independent research, cologaurd has a success rate of 42%. Even if you get a positive result you still need a colonoscopy to verify and remove.
LuckyPepper22@reddit
I suspect there will come a day when cologuard is taken off of the market.
Anonymo123@reddit
Glad you caught it.
I had a dream when I was 44 that I was telling my then teenage son (when he was much older in the dream) I was dying of Colon cancer. Told my doc, scheduled a scope, told the insurance to f off and they found something and they took care of it.
Scheduling my next appointment this week.
kosherhalfsourpickle@reddit
I have crohn's disease and get colonoscopies every year due to my risk for cancer. I have had many polyps, none have ever been cancer. You 100% want to get a colonoscopy every 4 years at our age, but just because you have polyps doesn't mean you are going to get cancer. Only a small percentage will turn into cancer.
Otherwise-Meaning-90@reddit (OP)
I get it. Still not worth letting them hang around in there
MrBlahg@reddit
I had six polyps when I had my colonoscopy. All benign… but it was the prostate biopsy that really sucked. Turned out I had cancer, so I’m m grateful for having to deal with the discomfort.
ConnectKale@reddit
Awe man. That sucks. Are you in treatment?
MrBlahg@reddit
I’m great! Had my prostate removed, cancer free.
Bobloblaw878@reddit
My SO had the option to do a cologuard vs colonoscopy and decided to do the colonoscopy because of cancer in the family. They found polyps. Kind of a lot. They were fine but he's going back earlier than he would have otherwise. I'm grateful. They wouldn't have found them with the cologuard. I'm happy he's safe. I'm going in next year. No cologuard for me. Honestly it's easy.
EastFluid@reddit
I read colorguard test at first.
Dry-Bar8606@reddit
Same- i thought memories of band camp and flag twirling competitions.
Triviajunkie95@reddit
I would ace them with flying colors.
I wish passing heart, cancer, lung, kidney, etc tests were easy enough to study for and pass. Getting old is rough.
ALSISREALAWFUL@reddit
Me too 🙄
wengla02@reddit
I presume you had a ride there - and back. Someone to handle the household. And you were able to take a few days off work to ''clean out''.
I also presume you have the cash to pay for the $6,000 copay on insurance before coverage kicks in for the polyp removals.
Excellent - good news for you.
If you can, you really should get it done.
Triviajunkie95@reddit
I’m guessing they took the Cologuard test because they had no intention of paying big bucks for a colonoscopy or polyp removals.
They posted literally because it was way too high out of budget.
Adventurous-Depth984@reddit
Cologuard seems to be for the people who WONT get a routine colonoscopy. If you’re in peril, the cologuard being positive might make you rethink.
chitoatx@reddit
Exactly. It’s better than nothing. It’s only one screening of many in one’s lifetime.
Automatic_Sleep_4723@reddit
I’ve yet to meet a PCP or gastroenterologist that allows a Cologuard in lieu of an actual colonoscopy. I wanted to try it when it became available and it was a hard no, just for this reason. Really glad you follow your instincts and hope you’re doing well.
wittyname78@reddit
Mine did! I do have a deep irrational? fear of colonoscopoes due to to my grandfather dying from a freak complication from one and then a neighbor also dying after a botched one. They were done years apart, in different states, by different doctors. I do know at some point I will have one and I've been working on getting past the irrational fear of it.
Silver_Breakfast7096@reddit
I also have an irrational fear of general anesthesia.
Intrepid_Practice956@reddit
My dad doesnt do anesthesia with his, and my husband is planning to have his anesthesia-free. Im doing anesthesia though.
Automatic_Sleep_4723@reddit
I’m so sorry about your grandfather and neighbor. Your fear is completely understandable! I’m so glad the Cologuard has been an option for you!
OwslyOwl@reddit
I asked my PCP about a colonoscopy since my family has a history of polyps. She said that I have to do the Cologuard until I turn 50. I'm not too worried about it because even though my family has a history of polyps, there was never an indication they were cancerous and there is not a history of colon cancer in my family. My parents waited until they were 50 for their first colonoscopy.
skiphandleman@reddit
I'd rather have a colonoscopy than have a tooth filled. Seriously. It os literally less unpleasant.
kabekew@reddit
I thought it was even less annoying than teeth cleaning.
According_Check_1740@reddit
The prep is the hardest part... but when it's all over, back to normal!
BakeFunny2759@reddit
Damnit!
snakeayez@reddit
Give me colonoscopy. The prep sucks but I have more faith. And lost a good friend too colon cancer so it'll always be worth it
Ok_Ad3036@reddit
I did Cologuard once. I was low risk and the pandemic was happening. I think that’s why my doctor recommended it. Three years later I did a colonoscopy which found a few polyps. I’ll do the colonoscopy from now on.
Apprehensive_Glove_1@reddit
It's just not enough. Get the world tour of your butthole done.
Honestly, I'd start at 30 these days. Colon cancer is showing up in 30-35 year olds more frequently than ever nowadays.
Cybercloak@reddit
I had no pain or stomach issues, but I wanted to take the test anyway to make sure nothing was going on based on my age (late 40's). Came back within 1-2 weeks and it was negative. My primary care Doctor at Kaiser said I didn't need to see him for a colonoscopy now.....so getting conflicting messages.
It might be because I had zero symptoms of anything going on is why, and you did..
Odd-Significance8020@reddit
That’s odd. The recommended age for colonoscopy is now 45.
OwslyOwl@reddit
I'm with Kaiser too and the rule between 45 and 50 is to only do a colonoscopy for high risk and for those who have a positive with the cologuard test thing.
dechets-de-mariage@reddit
I had zero symptoms and a 20mm polyp. (Thankfully non cancerous and, to quote the doctor, “not the kind that are inclined to become cancerous.”)
Turtle2k@reddit
stop with any kind of sugar. take olive leaf extract daily.. no more alcohol at all. Not one more drop. You'll be OK.
FAx32@reddit
Cologuard and FIT = waiting to have an advanced polyp or cancer, poor detection of sessile serrated polyps (admittedly colonoscopy isn’t as good with those either because they are flat/subtle, but still detects them much better than stool tests).
Colonoscopy = much better colon cancer and advanced polyp prevention because of the early detection and removal.
A precancerous polyp that is no longer in your colon can’t cause cancer. A precancerous polyp that cologuard can’t detect absolutely still can.
Roseliberry@reddit
Greetings!! You now qualify for 3 to 5 year plan!
jbellafi@reddit
One of my best friends just passed from colon cancer last week. She was diagnosed in 2022. It’s an awful disease. 😢😢
Otherwise-Meaning-90@reddit (OP)
I’m sorry for your loss
Practical_Cat_5849@reddit
Colonoscopies are easier than surgery and chemo.
Otherwise-Meaning-90@reddit (OP)
Very true
abananaberry@reddit
Don’t forget about the radiation where they mark the spot by placing a small ball bearing over your anus. Apparently it became cheaper just to use pennies than to buy ball bearings. At least that what the radiation tech said.
Thank you for letting ppl know that cologuard is not the best way to test for colorectal cancer.
And if people think they are safe bc they don’t have the family history, genetics are only responsible for about 20% of cancers.
Get scoped! It’s a great nap! And the clean out is always improving with shorter dietary restrictions beforehand along with meds to quell any possible nausea.
I recommend make a scope tit for tat pact with a friend or loved one. You take them and they take you when it’s your turn. Keeps you both healthy, safe and helps to have someone to hold you accountable for actually getting it done!
tranquilseafinally@reddit
I did a cologuard test and it came back negative but I did have cancer that it missed.
Otherwise-Meaning-90@reddit (OP)
Scary stuff
numsixof1@reddit
i have crohns so I get one every year (at least).
But yes, cologuard seems nice in theory but seems like it would miss a lot and you do not want to play around with colon cancer.
MegaMiles08@reddit
I took it last year, and got an abnormal result. Had 0 polyps during the colonoscopy, but I would have skipped it if I knew the results were so inaccurate.
InsertRadnamehere@reddit
That’s why Cologuard doesn’t work for high risk individuals. You may be high-risk without being aware of it.
AZJHawk@reddit
Yeah I don’t trust Cologuard. I had a colonoscopy two years ago and had a polyp.
NeverEverMaybe0_0@reddit
Polyps aren't cancer, they might be precancerous.
LangdonAlg3r@reddit
Mine came back positive and I did have some polyps. But I also spent the next 45 days freaked out that I had cancer because I had a positive test. I even took an appointment like 50 miles away so I could get in sooner.
So it’s a lose, lose, lose. False negative is bad because you could skip the colonoscopy that you actually need. False positive is bad because you freak out for nothing. And correct positive is also bad because you still need the colonoscopy anyway and you get to be freaked out for longer.
I just did my test based on age and I wouldn’t have spent that time stressed if my doctor hadn’t wanted me to do the poop box first.
notreadywithaname@reddit
Yes! I did it once, but I'm convinced the company is scamming us and the insurance companies.
Separate-Succotash11@reddit
That is a great summary. I couldn’t have articulated it better, and I’m a doctor.
Anotherams@reddit
this is why Cologard sucks. Too many false positives and negatives. It does get people who wouldn’t do a colonoscopy to at least do something, but it still comes at a price that may be the same as doing nothing.
TerpBE@reddit
I did cologard and it came back positive, so I had to get a colonoscopy. Everything came out fine, but in hindsight I should have just gone straight to the colonoscopy.
Empty_Nestor@reddit
“hindsight” snicker
Appropriate-Idea5281@reddit
No buts about it
IntellectAndEnergy@reddit
Colorized should be illegal. It’s not nearly accurate enough.
PV_Pathfinder@reddit
I loathe the way Cologuard villainizes traditional colonoscopies in their ads.
C-romero80@reddit
And if you have high risk those should not be used, but they are anyway...
jljue@reddit
Yeah, the prep for colonoscopy sucks, but it is still the best way to get checked.
Micheal_Noine_Noine@reddit
Recommend age to start covered screening is now 45. If there is a family history, under 45 need to push their dr for a rec.