Spongebob, (thank you :)

Lucky -

I was treated at Bethesda. They have a comprehensive Cancer Center. They are also in a joint oncology practice with the National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute. I know military medicine isn't always considered top-notch, but I have to say this: The doctor who does my colonoscopies is the same one who does the President (OK, no political jokes allowed), and all of my doctors were fellows from the National Cancer Institute.

Here's what I would do... go to the ER at Bethesda - preferrably after hours. That's the most direct way to get in there and they have the gastro docs on call.

That would be my opening salvo. I would say your situation sounds like it's viably acute to merit going thru the ER versus your PMC if you can't get an appointment.

Once you're "in" I would ask for a couple of tests in particular:

1. A FOBT (Fecal Occult Blood Test) - try to get the sample taken and done right then and there (you'll have to poop for that - be prepared)

2. A CBC blood test with special attention to be paid to your hematacrit

If your FOBT is positive, I would push (have hubby interject his rockers if necessary) for a colonoscopy to be done ASAP. Likewise if your hematacrit is low. Try if possible to hook yourself into Bethesda, my opinion is that they have the best cancer program in the area - check out their website, they have a complete section devoted to colon cancer treatment.

Try not to worry too much between now and the time they actually give you a scope. A scope is the best way to rule out any IBS, colon cancer, Chron's Disease, or ulcerative colitis.

I will be in the office tomorrow after noon or so, give me a shout or have your husband give me a call.

Cheers

- SpongeBob

spongebob said:

Tricia -

I don't think the doc's noses are burried in their books... I get the impression that their noses are firmly attached to their head which is burried in their... uh... well, let's just say they're doing a colonoscopy sans the scope!

Cheers!

SB-

LOL I agree with you 100%... I was just trying to be polite in stating that they firmly believe that no young person (or anyone below 50) will get cancer because ... well... they are below the screening age.

Been there... done that... took me 4 doctors to get a colonoscopy.

I am glad that Lucky has you to help her hopefully get screened.

Tricia

nanuk said:

I'll bet they used the same scope and failed to sterilize it properly; I've noticed a twang in your voice lately...

Could have just been that nook-ya-lur isotope they shot me with!