Scared about Colon Cancer

I am 31 years old and in relatively good health.  I am a bit overweight but I do exercise from time to time.  I do eat a diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables.  About 2 weeks ago, I noticed some bright red blood on the toilet paper.  I even had one bowel movement that had blood in the toilet bowl and a lot on the toilet paper.  I went to the doctor and he told me he thought I had an internal hemorrhoid.  Since then, I have been very constipated with some diarrhea, not much blood, besides a pencil mark here or there on the toilet paper.  When I do go to the bathroom, my stools are soft but very short and flat, like a small ruler.  I have been so stressed for 2 weeks thinking I have colon cancer.  Could stress cause my stools to look like this?  What should I do?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There are many reasons for blood on the toilet paper, including, hemorrhoids, an anal fissure, polyps, and yes, cancer.  

The best way to exclude cancer would be to obtain a lower endoscopy, such as a flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.

These options should be discussed with your personal physician.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.

KevinMD.com
Twitter.com/KevinMD

[gtyoung10]

Could stress cause the problems with the narrow stool?

[Mei8809]

I have just discovered I have an anal polyp, ie. one that is lying just outside my anus. Over the last 2 weeks or so, I have notice a change in my bowel movement and have gone and seen a GP, who has referred me for a colonoscopy and gastroscopy. I have an appointment scheduled to see the gastroenterologist on Thursday, but in the meantime, while bathing today, discovered the anal polyp about the size of a green pea. It does bleed or anything but I am getting really concern.