Concerns with Recent Health Tests in the UK
Greetings! I am a woman in my early forties For several years, I have been dealing with intermittent iron deficiency anemia. At the age of 35, I had a polyp removed following an incidental finding. Recently, I experienced a rectal bleed on a Sunday, leading to a significant amount of blood that caused my stool to appear bright red. On Monday, I visited my doctor for an examination, but no obvious hemorrhoids were detected. I underwent a FIT test on Wednesday, and the results returned today at 554ug, though there was no visible blood in the sample. My doctor did not recommend a blood test to check for anemia. Instead, I was advised to repeat the FIT test in two weeks. Additionally, I have been referred for a colonoscopy; however, this is not classified as an urgent case, and it appears my referral is still pending with the administrative team. There seems to be a lack of urgency regarding this situation. I am worried about whether I meet the criteria for a faster, two-week referral for the colonoscopy. Could you offer any guidance? Thank you! xx
Answers (1)
2/12/2026, 11:20:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned given your recent health experiences. You’re dealing with iron deficiency anemia and have had a rectal bleed, followed by a positive result on the FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test), which suggests there may be a concern in your digestive tract. Here’s a structured approach to your situation:
Key Points:
- Your Symptoms: You’ve experienced rectal bleeding, have a history of iron deficiency anemia, and received a positive FIT test result.
- Next Steps: It’s important to follow up on your colonoscopy referral while monitoring your symptoms closely.
Explanation:
- Rectal Bleeding: Blood in the stool can come from various sources in the gastrointestinal tract. While hemorrhoids are a common cause, the FIT test indicates the need to check for other issues, including polyps or more serious conditions.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia: This can occur due to chronic blood loss, and since you have a history of anemia and rectal bleeding, it’s essential to ensure it is monitored and managed properly.
- FIT Test Result: A result of 554ug indicates a significant amount of potential blood, which warrants further investigation via colonoscopy.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of any further bleeding, changes in stool color or consistency, and any new symptoms (e.g., abdominal pain, changes in appetite). This information will be helpful during your follow-up.
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Follow Up on Referral: Contact your doctor's office or the administrative team to inquire about the status of your colonoscopy referral. Make sure to express your concerns regarding the urgency of your symptoms. You can mention the rectal bleeding and your FIT test results to emphasize the need for timely evaluation.
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Re-evaluate Management of Anemia: While your doctor may not have suggested immediate blood tests, it might be worthwhile to express your concerns and request an anemia evaluation, especially since you have a history of iron deficiency.
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Consider Seeking a Second Opinion: If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, it’s completely reasonable to seek a second opinion from another healthcare provider, particularly regarding the urgency of your colonoscopy.
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Stay Informed and Engaged: Ask questions and remain engaged in your healthcare discussions. If you are unsure about the timeline for the colonoscopy or if you do not receive timely updates, advocate for yourself.
Reassurance:
It’s normal to feel anxious about health issues, especially when they involve symptoms like rectal bleeding. Taking proactive steps can make a significant difference in how your situation is managed. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from friends or family as you navigate this process. Your health concerns are important, and you have the right to seek answers and timely care. Please keep track of your symptoms and ensure you are following up with the relevant healthcare professionals.
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