Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Should I be worried?

OK, tonight I pooped out a stool that was completely flat on one side. I have never had anything like this before and have no other symptoms of colon cancer besides my stools occasionally being narrower than normal. Should I be worried at this point?
4 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
You mentioned that your stools occasionally change shape.  If there were something there, like a tumor, they would most likely constantly be narrow or flat.  Go to the doctor just for reassurance, but at your age and without any other alarm symptoms (weight loss, fatigue, etc.), I would say you're fine.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Anyone? I am quite worried about this.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I am 20 years old, thinly built (5'8 and 110lbs), and get lots of activity (I'm a long distance runner). I also have no family history of cancer or colon polyps.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal

Medical books suggest that you should seek advice if your stools change in shape.  By how much/to what degree/for how long is not stated!!

You don't state your age but from the age of ~40 upwards you are more prone to develop the more sinister G.I. diseases.

A colonoscopy is probably the test that can provide maximum reassurance.  My tendency would always be to seek this test since one of my relatives (aged ~70) ignored initial symptons and eventually succumbed to colon cancer so my motto would be "always err on the side of caution".

Good luck
Morecambe
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Gastroenterology Community

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Learn which OTC medications can help relieve your digestive troubles.
Is a gluten-free diet right for you?
Discover common causes of and remedies for heartburn.
This common yet mysterious bowel condition plagues millions of Americans
Don't get burned again. Banish nighttime heartburn with these quick tips
Get answers to your top questions about this pervasive digestive problem