colon cancer/IBS???

[mrtimmy]

Im now 50 but, All my life, I have had a very sensitive stomach/intestine and the condition is a family issue as my mom and children and other family have the same frequency issues.  Emergency bowel movements after eating, Frequent diarreah, and bowel movements several times a day.  Just recently after a heavy weekend of alcohol consumption(NO,not every weekend) I had very frequent bowel movements and later noticed bright red blood in my stool and on the paper; that stopped after two days but I have noticed my stool looks flat.  At most, it is 1/2 inch thick and about an inch wide. No blood.   I have more frequent diarreah and gas than I used to and when I spend alot of my day in a hard chair I have discomfort near my tailbone/top center of my buttocks. (Are the symptoms related?)
I do not have a doctor as I have never needed one.  I had regular exams at work until the  last was 6 years ago.  I have insurance that covers only sickness and has a large deductable.
I would like to get a colonoscopy but am told I need a referall.   What do my symtoms sound like??? Colon Cancer? or some condition of the colon/intestines?
How much is a colonoscopy?
Will a clinic/convinient care clinic refer me for a colonoscopy? (my insurance company said that would be okay) Should I have x-rays/scan also??

[mrtimmy]

I understand you cannot suggest probability or diagnose.
Are there other inestinal conditions that would create my symptoms and what are they?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Even without the symptoms, at age 50, a colonoscopy is recommended.

I cannot comment on the probability of colon cancer, or not, but changes in bowel habits as well as in the stool shape can be indicative of cancer.

I am not familiar with the specific arrangements for colonoscopies in your area.  I would first start with finding a primary care doctor, or failing that, going to a clinic to ask for a GI referral for a colonoscopy.

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.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd