colon

[baraka]

I have been experiencing all or most of the symptoms of colon/colorectal cancer, i.e. narrow stools, bloody mucus from the rectum on several occasions, localized abdominal pain (left flank and area just above the ilica crest), drastic change in bowel movements, significant weight loss (15 lbs in 2 months), loss of appetite, fatigue, etc. etc. etc. for the last 2 or 3 months.  However: I am 21 years old, in farily good shape, and without a known family history of colon cancer.  I have had symptoms associated with irritable syndrome since age 17, (unexplained abdominal cramping after eating and relief from that discomfort after a bowel movement) but don't think that my current symptoms are associated with IBS.  I just saw a gastrointerologist who recommended a colonoscopy (I am having the test done in 3 days) and said it could be something as simple as hemorroidal bleeding, or something as nasty and complex as colon cancer.  I know it is highly unusual for someone as young as myself to have the disease, but according to my symptoms it is hard to come up with another explanation.  So, with that in mind, I suppose my question is: What are some  illnesses (other than colon/colorectal cancer) associated with the symptoms I have been having for the last 2 or 3 months?  I don't know how long it takes for someone to respond to these ?'s.  I realize that it is likely that I will have my colonoscopy and recieve a diagnosis from my Dr. before I recive a response due to what seems to be a large number of ?'s.  However, any response will be greatly appreciated at any time. Thanks.

[kimbacat]

Hi,

it is scarey to even hear the doc say "possibly cancer".  but he and you are right, in that the scope will go a long way to figuring this out.  he'll take biopsies and those results take up to a week to get, so you might not have a definitive answer right away.  it could be IBS or hemmies, or diverticulitis, or it could be a type of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.  

waiting for tests and the results is the hardest part, I think.  hang in there tho.  our imaginations are usually far worse than actuality.  you are taking the right steps and that is terrific.

[Galaxian]

IBS is also known as the most complete symptom imitator ever known: it can imitate colorectal cancer, ulcerative colitis and Crohn disease, but there are a thing it cannot imitate: blood. If blood is present, a more serious problem may be present.

But don't worry, IBS and a gastroinstestinal infection may produce the symptoms you have.

Did your doctor order a blood test? It can discover if there are infection.

If you're under medical supervision, don't leave, because you are too young to have cancer.

Greetings, and good luck.

[ashpie3]

Hi, I am 29 and have been going through the same thing..I am terrified I have colon cancer..I had a fecal occult blood test come back positive so I am also having a colonoscopy done next wednesday..I have been having a problem w/ constipation and thin stools..I also was diagnosed w/ Ibs 3 years ago but feel the symptoms are different..I have mucus in my stool everyday and feel very nauseous and tired..please let me know how your test goes..when you say thin stool how thin? like a pencil? mine are always lumpy

[baraka]

Thanks to kimbacat, Galaxian, and ashpie3 for the responses.  I have never posted questions online before and was a bit apprehensive about doing so.  But thus far it has turned out to be a positive experience.   To answer questions from Galaxian and ashpie3:

Galaxian:  Yes, I have had some blood tests done and none of them have shown anything along the lines of an infection.  The only worrisome result from recent blood tests was a low red cell count.  However, I have scored on the lower side of hematocrits (sp?) on a few occasions within the last three years during visits to a family doctor.  I know that can be due to a number of things, but haven