Rectal Bleeding

[M.]

I'm a 31-year-old female with no known family history of colon cancer. I've been experiencing bright red rectal bleeding with bowel movements, but not consistently. I could go 1 or more months in between episodes. Sometimes it's just a little blood, and sometimes it's a substantial amount. Actually, I can remember having this happen when I was even a teenager, intermitently. With all the publicity being given to colon cancer, I'm really scared that I may have it. It seems every time I turn around there's another news story about this cancer. What are the risk factors for someone my age for colorectal cancer? Should I see my family doctor, or should I make an appointment right away for a colonoscopy?

[Matthew]

WOOO HOOO!
Finally went to the ER as I was scared to death with all the blood. Took them about 5 minutes to diagnose hemmorroids! They did a simple rectal exam with a scope of some kind and immediately saw the hemmorroid!

I BEG you all to do the same! The worries immediately went away and I have discovered that so much of my 'discomfort' was in my head! I am now at ease and started taking Metamusile every morning.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE people, don't be embarrassed and have this simple test to rule out something that can put your mind at ease!!!!!!

[Tony]

FYI.....I'm 40 and have Diverticuli and had two bouts of Diverticulitis last year.  So I went for a colonoscopy.  Yes, the prep before (fasting and drinking that awful stuff) is the worst, but at the procedure I received a shot that made me woosy, but kept me awake.  Was able to watch the whole thing on TV and didn't feel a thing.  I even saw my doctor remove a very small polyp that was negative.  Afterwards you just have some gas, and are still a bit woosy, so you should have a ride home.  Hope this helps!

[tom]

OK not to be graphic but here is what Im seeing in my stools for

[tom]

OK not to be graphic but here is what Im seeing in my stools for about a week. Stools seem normal except for small amounts of red blood and mucus on the outside as well as small spots of red blood mixed throughout the stool. No other problems. Waiting for my referal from Avmed. But still worried. Any ideas? Thanks.

[tom]

OK not to be graphic but here is what Im seeing in my stools for about a week. Stools seem normal except for small amounts of red blood and mucus on the outside as well as small spots of red blood mixed throughout the stool. No other problems. Waiting for my referal from Avmed. But still worried. Any ideas? Thanks.

[windy diaz]

had histerectomy in 97 started bleeding again
blood from both areas cramping and bright bleeding