bloody mucus in stool

[sfs0909]

For almost two weeks now, I have had bloody mucus in my stools, which have been considerably loose. I have very active bowel sounds after I eat, and once I go to the bathroom, the urgency increases for about 30 minutes. The best way that I can describe the stool is that sometimes it just has a bloody mucus on it (not bright red), but other times it seems like it's just bloody sediment coming out (again, not bright red, but also not dark/black). I haven't had any abdominal cramping or pain with my BMs, and I haven't lost any weight. Also, I'm only 21 yrs old. I know I should go see a GI doctor, but I was really trying to wait this out. Any suggestions of what to do (otc treatment)/what this could be?

[Morecambe]

Any rectal bleeding/blood is not normal and should be investigated.  You are too young to be suffering from the more sinister G.I. diseases but you should consult a doctor.  A colonoscopy is the most comprehensive (and reassuring) test.

regards
Morecambe

[TrudieC]

Yes, please don't wait.  You are at the prime age for ulcerative colitis, or it could be many other things.  Waiting can make things worse.  You need to get diagnosed and treated to avoid any future complications.  Good luck.