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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Scared about Colon Cancer
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Scared about Colon Cancer
by gtyoung10, Sep 22, 2009 08:21AM
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?
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Sep 23, 2009 06:39AM
, Sep 23, 2009 06:39AM
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
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
Member Comments (3)
by gtyoung10, Sep 23, 2009 07:58AM
To: Kevin
Could stress cause the problems with the narrow stool?
by Mei8809, Oct 20, 2009 04:46AM
To: Kevin Pho, MD
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.
