Diarrhea as a symptom of colon cancer

[Fleur]

I went to my doctor because I've had diarrhea for the past couple of months.  She told me that my symptoms were "a very unlikely presentation for colon cancer".  I told her that I had heard that it could be.  She said that diarrhea in conjuction with colon cancer would usually be frequent (several small amounts a day, indicating a blockage).  I go once or twice a day, rarely three.  She said the usual symptoms are rectal bleeding or signs of blockage.  Is what she's telling me true?  I am certainly going to follow up on it, but I'm just curious what other people think about what she told me.  There are other possible causes of the diarrhea, such as Prevacid use (which I've been off for two weeks) and stress.  Any thoughts appreciated.

[needabreak]

Just want to say "good luck"... I thought I was the only "professional worrier" out there.  I have 3 children, 2 who have gone through very serious surgeries and illness and anything now that I sense as a threat to them or "my" health, bring on excess stress to the point that I get sick.  It's tough to deal with, but find comfort and strength in prayer.  God bless!

[Fleur]

I appreciate so much your thoughtful comments.  My doctor has asked me to do the occult blood test, which I will do next week.  The worrying is such a hard thing for me, always has been. I'm a single parent of two disabled children and know that I have to be there for them.  My doctor has sensed my worry and said she would approve a colonoscopy if I want, although she still doesn't think my symptoms are alarming.  Even though she's a "medicaid" doctor I believe she knows what she's doing.  I have major stress in my life, but maybe for peace of mind I should consider the colonoscopy.  I really appreciate your input.  Thanks.

[needabreak]

I understand your worry.  Even with your concerns, didn't your doctor suggest a colonscopy?  I think she's right in what she told you, but I've also read that on and off diarrhea and constipation are possible indicators.  This isn't always true either...those are also symptoms of IBS.  I think I told you earlier about having had the diarrhea every day for over a month and I was quite worried, too (and that didn't help I'm sure).  After my colonscopy, I was told to use a fiber drink (Citrucel) every day until my stools were normal again, but not to drink the extra glass of water after it.  I finally did get myself straightened out and still use it when needed.  As another person indicated in one of your earlier postings, that her husband had a bout of diarrhea, I think that the intestines/colon can get out of whack because of stress or whatever and some of us do get diarrhea as a result.  I don't like people scaring me first thing either with the cancer prognosis...but if you are still concerned about it, ask to have the colonscopy done anyway.  Sure, it's no fun, but either is worrying yourself to death. You know your body...if you don't have any other symptoms that are undeniable, at least try using the fiber first...then, if that doesn't work, consider the colonscopy.  P.S. did the doctor suggest that you do an occult blood test?  That is something that you can do at home.   Let us know how you're doing.             needabreak