Colorectal cancer tests

After an unexpected positive screening test, my husband had a colonoscopy where 'something very suspicious of cancer' was biopsied & then CT done few days later.

We are waiting on results, which will be given after a MDT meeting (hopefully within the next week or so).  There were/are no symptoms, so this is all very unexpected, and I find myself quizzing my poor husband for 'signs' and convincing myself (via Dr Google) I can see swellings/hear breathing changes that signal spread - obviously keeping this all to myself as I think he has more than enough to be thinking about!

Just wonder how others cope with this wait, and if the complete absence of symptoms (as I said, this has all come about via routine screening) is generally a positive sign that things have been caught really early. Probably should've asked all this at the time of the Colonoscopy, but the word 'cancer' came as such a shock that we sat there nodding and smiling like goons while the rest of what was said became just white noise!

  • Hello CLCAC

    I'm sorry to hear about your husband's recent diagnosis. It's perfectly understandable that you were both in a state of shock at the appointment. I know that many of our members here have experienced that "white noise" phenomenon after being told that they, or someone they love, has cancer. 

    My first piece of advice would be to please stop consulting Dr Google. We know that many people turn to the internet for information at times like this but unfortunately what happens is that you'll be left feeling even more worried and anxious by inaccurate or irrelevant information. Whilst the waiting is difficult, it is the only way you will get accurate answers. Hopefully, the MDT will bring positive news in the next week or so and you will both know what the next steps are. Most people find once there is a treatment plan in place that it's easier to deal with things. 

    The second thing I suggest doing is to give our team of nurses a call next week. We know that for many people it helps to have someone to talk things through with and I'm sure that our nurses will be happy to offer any advice and support that they can ahead of the next appointment. They're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Finally, write down any questions that you or your husband may have. Doesn't matter how daft or insignificant they may seem, get them down on paper so that you can ask the Consultant when you see them. Often in the moment, we forget to ask a question or two and then come away from the appointment worrying about the things that we didn't ask about. Having them written down can help stop that, as well as giving you somewhere to write down any important pieces of information you want to remember after leaving the appointment. If you're unsure about what to ask, our nurses will be able to help you think about some of the points you want to raise at the appointment. 

    As I said, hopefully, you will have some information very soon and this awful period of uncertainty will ease. In the meantime, keep in touch and let us know how you're getting on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator